The simple answer is: there is no officially announced date for the next episode of Dragon Ball Super. The series concluded its broadcast run on March 25, 2018, with episode 131. However, the Dragon Ball franchise remains active through movies, manga, and other related projects, leaving fans hopeful for a future return.
The Current State of Dragon Ball Super
While the television series is on hiatus, it’s vital to understand the distinction between the anime series and the manga series. The manga, illustrated by Toyotarou, continues to advance the storyline beyond the events of the Tournament of Power arc. This continued narrative provides a rich source material that many believe will eventually be adapted into new anime episodes.
Why the Hiatus?
There’s no single definitive answer to why Dragon Ball Super is on hiatus, but a combination of factors likely contributed:
- Pacing and Production: The anime often ran close to the manga’s release schedule, leading to concerns about pacing and potentially rushing the adaptation. Taking a break allowed the manga to develop a more substantial storyline.
- Quality Concerns: Maintaining consistently high animation quality can be demanding on animation studios. A hiatus could provide the time necessary for better planning and execution.
- Focus on Movies: Toei Animation has focused on producing high-quality feature films like Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero. These films have proven to be incredibly successful, generating significant revenue and bolstering the franchise’s popularity.
- Creative Re-evaluation: The creative team might have needed time to re-evaluate the direction of the series and develop compelling new storylines that resonate with audiences.
Future Possibilities
Despite the hiatus, the enduring popularity of Dragon Ball makes a return of the anime highly probable. Several factors point towards a potential continuation:
- The Manga’s Progress: The ongoing Dragon Ball Super manga presents a wealth of material for future anime seasons. The Galactic Patrol Prisoner arc and the current Granolah the Survivor arc are both filled with exciting battles and intriguing plot developments.
- Fan Demand: The unwavering devotion of Dragon Ball fans worldwide ensures a constant demand for new content. Toei Animation is well aware of this demand and understands the potential benefits of continuing the anime.
- Financial Incentives: The Dragon Ball franchise is a significant revenue generator for Toei Animation. Renewing the anime would undoubtedly be a lucrative venture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dragon Ball Super’s Return
This section addresses common questions surrounding the future of Dragon Ball Super, providing in-depth answers and shedding light on potential developments.
FAQ 1: What is the most likely scenario for Dragon Ball Super’s return?
The most probable scenario involves Toei Animation announcing a new season of Dragon Ball Super, adapting the Galactic Patrol Prisoner and Granolah the Survivor arcs from the manga. This would allow the anime to continue the story and capitalize on the existing manga content.
FAQ 2: Is there any official confirmation about a new season?
As of now, there is no official confirmation from Toei Animation or Akira Toriyama regarding a new season of Dragon Ball Super. All information circulating is speculation based on industry trends, fan demand, and the availability of source material.
FAQ 3: When is the earliest we could expect an announcement?
Predicting an exact announcement date is impossible. However, industry analysts often speculate around major anime conventions or anniversaries related to the Dragon Ball franchise. These events tend to be prime opportunities for significant announcements. Keep an eye on conventions like Anime Expo, Jump Festa, and San Diego Comic-Con.
FAQ 4: Will the next season continue where the Tournament of Power left off?
Yes, a new season would almost certainly continue the story from where the Tournament of Power arc concluded. The Galactic Patrol Prisoner arc directly follows the events of the tournament and introduces new villains and challenges for Goku and Vegeta.
FAQ 5: Will the animation style be the same?
The animation style could remain the same or undergo minor adjustments. Based on Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, Toei Animation might consider incorporating more CGI animation, either partially or fully. This remains a subject of debate among fans, with some preferring traditional animation.
FAQ 6: Will the original voice cast return?
It’s highly likely that the original voice cast, both in Japanese and English, will return. The voice actors are integral to the characters’ identities and have become synonymous with their roles.
FAQ 7: What about the Moro arc and the Granolah arc? Will they be adapted?
These arcs are the primary source material for a potential new season. The Moro arc introduces a powerful magic user, while the Granolah arc delves into the history of the Saiyans and presents a formidable new enemy. These arcs are considered fan favorites and would likely be adapted faithfully.
FAQ 8: What can fans do to increase the chances of a new season?
Supporting the Dragon Ball franchise through official merchandise, movies, and manga helps demonstrate the continued demand for new content. Engaging with the online community and expressing interest in a new season can also contribute to the overall buzz surrounding the series. Buy the manga, watch the movies legally, and engage on social media.
FAQ 9: Will the movies be incorporated into the anime series?
The films and the anime series have occasionally diverged in their continuities. While Dragon Ball Super: Broly introduced Broly into the main canon, it’s unclear how or if Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero will be directly referenced in a future anime season. The anime might adapt elements from the movies while maintaining its own distinct narrative.
FAQ 10: Are there any spin-offs or related projects to keep fans entertained?
Yes, the Super Dragon Ball Heroes anime and arcade game offer alternative storylines and character designs. While not considered canon to the main Dragon Ball Super narrative, they provide entertaining content for fans. Additionally, various video games featuring Dragon Ball characters are constantly being released.
FAQ 11: Where can I find updates and news about Dragon Ball Super?
Reliable sources for Dragon Ball Super updates include official Toei Animation websites, reputable anime news sites like Anime News Network and Crunchyroll, and verified social media accounts associated with the franchise. Be wary of unverified rumors and speculation. Stick to official channels and trusted news sources.
FAQ 12: Is it possible Dragon Ball Super will never return?
While unlikely, it’s impossible to rule out the possibility entirely. Various factors could hinder a return, such as production challenges, creative differences, or a shift in Toei Animation’s priorities. However, given the immense popularity of the Dragon Ball franchise, a continuation remains highly probable. Hope, like Goku’s spirit bomb, is a powerful force.
In conclusion, while the exact date for the next episode of Dragon Ball Super remains unknown, the future of the franchise looks bright. The availability of compelling manga content, coupled with the unwavering fan demand, suggests that a new season is a strong possibility. Until then, fans can continue to enjoy the movies, manga, and other related projects, eagerly awaiting the return of Goku and his friends.