Dragon Ball Daima Unveils Two Brilliant Easter Eggs Paying Homage to Akira Toriyama’s Greatest Works

Warning: Contains spoilers for Dragon Ball Daima Episode #11Dragon Ball Daima has revitalized the beloved franchise by returning to the charming aspects that characterized Goku’s childhood adventures. Set against the backdrop of the enchanting Demon Realm, the cast’s quest for the Dragon Balls evokes a deep sense of nostalgia, harkening back to the original wonder that defined the series before the focus shifted to large-scale confrontations. In the latest installment, Episode #11, titled “Legend,”the anime makes significant allusions to two of Akira Toriyama’s seminal works.

For many fans primarily familiar with Toriyama’s contributions to Dragon Ball, one reference may go unnoticed, as it ties back to a series that preceded Goku’s adventures in Shōnen Jump. However, the second reference is likely to resonate immediately with long-time followers when Neva, the iconic Namekian elder, begins to sing the original theme song from the Dragon Ball anime. This moment encapsulates Dragon Ball Daima as a heartfelt tribute to Toriyama’s lasting influence in both manga and anime, with this latest episode further enhancing those connections.

Daima’s Homage to Dr. Slump’s Arale

Majin Duu Emerges with Arale’s Iconic Phrase

Before Goku’s legendary journey began, Akira Toriyama gained fame as a manga artist with his delightful comedy series, Dr. Slump. Although many Dragon Ball enthusiasts might not be well-versed in this earlier work, it marked Toriyama’s breakthrough in Weekly Shōnen Jump, running for nearly five years. In a remarkable tribute, Dragon Ball Daima introduces a new villain, Majin Duu, showcasing connections to Arale and the whimsical universe of Dr. Slump.

Majin Duu, reminiscent of Buu yet embodying a playful spirit, makes his debut in a striking manner: rising from a cauldron, he enthusiastically proclaims Arale’s signature catchphrase, “n’cha!”This moment is met with hilarity by characters Arinsu and Marba, who respond with their own shaky “n’cha.”Notably, this phrase is integral to Arale’s formidable N’cha Cannon attack. Whether Majin Duu possesses Arale’s unique comedic powers remains uncertain, but if he harnesses even a fraction of her abilities, he could emerge as one of Dragon Ball’s most formidable foes.

Neva Performs the Dragon Ball Theme

The New Namekian Delivers Dragon Ball’s Iconic Opening Theme

In the latest episode, the enigmatic Namekian sage Neva rejoins the ensemble as they traverse the treacherous Demon Realm. As the creator of the Demon Dragon Balls, Neva seems to possess vital information, cleverly masking it behind an act of senility. He spontaneously bursts into song, performing “Makafushigi Adventure!”the beloved opening theme from the original Dragon Ball series. Piccolo, however, quickly sees through Neva’s guise, effectively cutting his song short.

Dragon Ball Daima continues to serve as a nostalgic homage to the franchise’s rich history, with Episode #11 masterfully weaving in tributes to Toriyama’s most influential works. The episode concludes dramatically, leaving viewers on a cliffhanger where Vegeta faces a terrifying fate at the jaws of a Kraken. Fans can certainly anticipate more thrilling developments and further nods to Dragon Ball’s legacy in the episodes to come.

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