Akira Toriyama was more than just the creator of Dragon Ball. He was the heartbeat of the entire series — the man whose art, humor, and energy shaped the childhood of millions.
When news broke about his passing, it hit the anime world hard. Fans didn’t just lose an artist, they lost the man who made them believe in growth, courage, and the power of never giving up.
But Dragon Ball has never been about giving up, and neither will its story.
The big question now is simple — what will Dragon Ball look like without Akira Toriyama hand guiding it?
What Toriyama Personally Oversaw in Dragon Ball Super
Even though Toyotarou was drawing the Dragon Ball Super manga, Toriyama was still involved in major story outlines, character designs, and final approvals.
He helped shape key arcs like The Tournament of Power and Granolah the Survivor. He even designed characters like Beerus, Whis, and Jiren — proving that his creativity stayed sharp till the end.
Every transformation, power-up, and emotional moment had Toriyama unique balance of humor and tension. He had a way of making serious battles still feel fun. That’s what made Dragon Ball truly special.
Toyotarou New Role — Carrying the Flame Forward
After Toriyama’s death, all eyes turned to Toyotarou — his hand-picked successor.
Toyotarou has already said in interviews that “continuing without Toriyama is not impossible, but not easy.” Those words say everything.
He respects Toriyama’s vision deeply but also wants to grow beyond just copying his mentor’s style.
Toyotarou’s art has evolved too. Early on, fans noticed he followed Toriyama’s clean, round line work. But recently, his panels show more shadows, depth, and modern detail. He’s adding his personal touch — more dramatic eyes, sharper expressions, and cinematic pacing.
This could mark the start of Dragon Ball next era — one that honors Toriyama but dares to evolve.
The Visual Shift A New Style for a New Generation
You can already see the change if you compare panels from the early Super manga to the Super Hero arc.
Toriyama’s style was bright, simple, and focused on clear motion. Toyotarou’s current pages feel more textured and intense. Backgrounds carry more detail, and fights look closer to what we see in modern shōnen series like Jujutsu Kaisen or My Hero Academia.
This isn’t bad — it’s growth. Dragon Ball is no longer just nostalgia. It’s transforming visually to connect with a new generation while still keeping its soul.
If Dragon Ball Super 2 really launches in 2026, we might see this new blend of classic simplicity and modern sharpness take full form.
What the Future of Dragon Ball Could Look Like
Without Toriyama’s guidance, the tone of Dragon Ball may shift slightly.
Expect a deeper focus on character emotions, storytelling depth, and darker visual themes. Toyotarou and the editorial team might explore more mature conflicts — not just who’s stronger, but what strength means.
But one thing will never change — Dragon Ball’s spirit. The same spirit that made Goku smile in battle, made Vegeta rise again after every defeat, and made fans believe in endless potential.
The legend of Akira Toriyama lives on.
And through his students, his fans, and the stories yet to come — his touch will always remain part of Dragon Ball’s heart.
Final Thoughts
Dragon Bal future will be different, but not weaker.
Toriyama built a universe strong enough to outlive even its creator. Now it’s in the hands of artists who grew up inspired by him.
The next era will be emotional, bold, and filled with respect — exactly how Toriyama would have wanted it.
