Dragon Ball Daima, the latest addition to Akira Toriyama’s legendaryDragon Ballfranchise, is currently airing, with new episodes released every Friday. Produced by Toei Animation, the series has showcased impressive animation across its first five episodes, as Goku embarks on an adventure into the Demon Realm. With each episode, new characters and plot points have been introduced to expand Toriyama’s world.
While fans were excited to see what new additions these characters and journeys will bring to enrich Akira Toriyama’s world, the latest episode may have proven that this new installment may not be as “new” as anticipated.Dragon Ball DaimaEpisode #5introduces a new character named Panzy, who, at a deeper insight, seems more familiar than fans initially thought. This nod, along with other familiar elements already introduced, might reveal that Daima draws heavily from the franchise’s original charm, something that made it beloved by fans worldwide.
Dragon Ball Daima Uses Bulma’s Characteristics For Its Newest Character
Introduced in Episode #5, “Panzy”
In theDragon Ballfranchise, many characters are known for their strength, as the series’ central premise has always been about increasing power levels. Characters like Bulma, who lack physical strength, might risk being sidelined. However, through Toriyama’s masterful writing, Bulma has remained integral to nearly every major plotline, and without her, the story often feels incomplete. This sentiment is becoming increasingly clear in Daima, as the new Demon Realm setting makes it difficult for many iconic characters to join Goku on his journey, as evidenced by theabsence of Gohan from the seriesso far.
Though the ending sequences have shown that Bulma,along with Vegeta and Piccolo, will eventually reach the Demon Realm, Bulma’s involvement may be limited by its harsh environment. Episode #5 of Daima, however, introduces Panzy, a character who makes it evident that the foundation for her characteristics is based on Bulma, but a subtle change will allow her to address this challenge. In this episode, Panzy insists on joining Goku and the others, finding him intriguing, and reveals her specialty in machines. While this moment hints that her character is inspired by Bulma due to their shared interest, another significant detail is soon revealed.
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Later in the episode, Panzy is revealed to be the daughter of the King of the Third Demon World. Her status as the princess of the Third Demon World mirrors Bulma’s status as the daughter of the Capsule Corp founder. It might be easy to assume that Panzy, with her childlike appearance, is added to evoke nostalgia and act as a substitute for Bulma as Goku’s adventure continues. However, a subtle detail may justify Panzy’s unique presence in Daima.
Daima’s Newest Character, Panzy, is the Best Counterpart To Bulma
Panzy’s Demonic Traits Are Necessary for the Storyline
In Daima, new elements continue to emerge, presenting fresh challenges for Goku and the other Z Warriors on their journey. The latest obstacle is theDemon Realm’s environment itself: the air here is denser than Earth’s, making it difficult even for Goku to fly freely. Given this, Bulma’s role may not be as effective for Daima, as her lack of physical strength and unfamiliarity with the Demon Realm would restrict her movement, potentially hindering the group as well.
While Bulma’s technological prowess might ordinarily support the team, the Demon Realm’s tech is likely unfamiliar to her, limiting her effectiveness. Instead, Panzy, a demon and tech genius with magical abilities, is a natural counterpart. Her familiarity with the Demon Realm’s environment would allow her to play a unique role that Bulma might lack. However, since the series has yet to introduce any truly overwhelming threats beyond the Tamagami, Panzy’s presence remains secondary. Yet, the mysterious powers of the Tamagami hinted through their appearance, may indeed be what ultimately requires her specific skills, allowing Panzy a significant role in confronting these entities.
Dragon Ball Daima May Be Drawing on Traits of Its Iconic Villains for Its New Antagonists
The Tamagamis Could Be a Reference to Akira Toriyama’s Famous Love of Robots
While King Gomah is regarded as powerful by the residents of the Demon Realm, he likely won’t pose much of a threat to the Z Fighters, who have already overcome his counterpart, King Dabura, and even Majin Buu. The real challenge for them will come from the mysterious Tamagamis,creations of the Demon Realm Namekian Neva, whose sole purpose is to protect theDragon Ballof the Demon Realm. Known for their exceptional strength, the Tamagamis have already intrigued Goku and fans alike, eager to gauge their true power.
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With their unique design, artificial nature, and hints that the Demon Realm incorporates advanced technology, the Tamagamis may be inspired by the iconic Androids of theDragon Balluniverse. They could potentially pose a similar level of threat to Goku and Vegeta as the Androids once did in the Android Saga. Fortunately, Panzy, with expertise in Demon Realm technology, might provide the critical support the Z Warriors need to take on the formidable Tamagamis.
Other Significant References In Dragon Ball Daima That Might Be Inspired By the Franchise’s Iconic Elements
While the new characters introduced inDragon Ball Daimacontinue to show inspiration from the franchise’s iconic characters, the storyline itself is also rooted in classic elements fromDragon Ball. One of the clearest inspirations is seen in theDragon Ball GTplotline about turning Goku back into a child. Daima takes this concept further, de-aging every major character, and reintroduces Goku’s iconic Power Pole, adding a strong nostalgic touch.
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The series also delves into the Demon Realm, a storyline hinted at in Toriyama’s original Majin Buu saga, while introducing unique elements of its own, including its version of senzu beans and distinct fusion techniques. Lastly, the hidden details in theopening and ending sequences ofDaimabeing catered to honor the author is a subtle touch that amplifies what exactly this installment is trying to do. These elements make it clear thatDragon Ball Daimais built on the best aspects of Akira Toriyama’s original vision, serving as a tribute to the late creator and rekindling the enduring love fans have for this beloved franchise.
Dragon Ball DAIMA
Cast
Dragon Ball Daima sees Goku and his allies inexplicably shrunk into miniature forms, prompting a journey to the Demon Realm. This animated adventure, part of the Dragon Ball franchise, explores their mission to solve the mystery and restore their original statures. Released in October 2024.
