Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball has flourished for four decades and the series is set for one of its most exciting developments in years with Dragon Ball DAIMA’s debut. Dragon Ball DAIMA, an original anime series that Toriyama was directly involved in, explores one of the franchise’s most interesting – albeit underserviced – ideas, the nefarious Demon Realm. Dragon Ball has teased the Demon Realm as early as the original series and there have been prominent figures from this dark dimension that have come to cause trouble. That being said, Dragon Ball’s Demon Realm has mostly been left to the series’ expanded universe and non-canonical material, such as Dragon Ball Heroes.
Dragon Ball DAIMA promises an epic adventure that sends Goku and the East Supreme Kai, Shin, to the Demon Realm, presumably to reverse the curse that’s turned everyone into children. Goku is certainly strong enough to handle dangerous situations on his own, especially if he has Shin’s prolific magic by his side. However, there are several other Dragon Ball characters who would be perfect companions for Goku’s Dragon Ball DAIMA Demon Realm adventure.
10 Piccolo Is A Namekian Who Has Demonic Roots In His Lineage
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball, Episode 123, “Lost And Found”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball, Chapter 161, “The Fist Of Son Goku”
Piccolo has become one of Dragon Ball’s strongest and most selfless heroes, which makes it all the easier to forget that he’s someone who was brought into existence for the express purpose of dominating the world and destroying Goku. Piccolo is the reincarnation of his father, Demon King Piccolo, who is Dragon Ball’s first major demon character. Piccolo has largely washed his hands of his father’s wicked past and the untold pain that he caused.
However, there are still circumstances where his demonic roots are addressed, including Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero’s recent events. Piccolo is in a unique situation where he may have subconscious connections to the Demon Realm that he doesn’t even realize. Piccolo’s journey to the Demon Realm could trigger curious reactions that potentially help bring out his demon side to some extent as he aids Goku and Shin on this momentous adventure.
9 Majin Buu Is Ready To Feed His Appetite On A Gargantuan Journey
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Episode 232, “Buu Is Hatched”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Chapter 266 (Dragon Ball Chapter 460), “The Djinn Awakens?!”
One of the Buu Saga’s most surprising developments is that Innocent Buu doesn’t get wiped out with Kid Buu and that he remains in the picture as Hercule Satan’s best friend. Dragon Ball Super hasn’t gotten a ton of use out of Buu and his most rewarding material doesn’t occur until the manga’s big battle against Planet-Eater Moro. Dragon Ball DAIMA is set after the Buu Saga, but seemingly before Beerus and Whis’ arrival at the start of Dragon Ball Super. Buu hasn’t explicitly been seen in any of Dragon Ball DAIMA’s trailers, but he’s appeared in the anime’s production art.
This indicates that he’ll be present in DAIMA in at least some capacity. Majin Buu is another Dragon Ball character with special connections to the Demon Realm that could provide invaluable support to Goku as he attempts to navigate this new territory. This would be a satisfying way for Dragon Ball to make up for Buu’s unfulfilled potential in Dragon Ball Super as well as dig into an uncomfortable character dynamic between Shin and Buu. If nothing else, the prospect of Buu chaotically turning demons into candy and cookies would be a lot of fun.
8 Spike The Devil Man Is Long Overdue For A Demonic Comeback Story
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball, Episode 73, “The Devilmite Beam”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball, Chapter 103, “The Power Of Goku”
One of the original Dragon Ball’s first forays into supernatural material involves the monster-coded Fortuneteller Baba’s Tournament. This laid back martial arts competition is a helpful way for Goku, Krillin, and Yamcha to prepare for the upcoming 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament, as well as help them track down the missing Dragon Balls. Fortuneteller Baba’s fighters all draw classic Universal Monsters, whether it’s vampires, mummies, invisible men, or ghosts. However, one of Baba’s most memorable warriors is Spike the Devil Man, a character who has direct ties to the Demon Realm.
The original Dragon Ball features other filler demons, such as Shula and Lucifer, but Spike would be the smartest candidate to join Goku’s side in Dragon Ball DAIMA. It’s been confirmed that Spike is still out there in the world and Goku’s relationship with Baba is still healthy when Dragon Ball Z comes to a close and Dragon Ball Super begins. Spike carries vital demon intel, but he’s also a powerful fighter who has previously won two World Tournaments. His Devilmite Beam is also a debilitating technique that can kill any individual who has a fraction of darkness in their heart. This would be an essential ability in the Demon Realm and Spike would presumably be able to eliminate any demon that’s encountered in a single shot.
7 Krillin Can Pull From His Prior Demon Duel Experience
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball, Episode 14, “Goku’s Rival”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball, Chapter 25, “A Rival Arrives!!”
Krillin is Goku’s best friend and the two martial artists have known each other since youth. Accordingly, Krillin is a logical choice to accompany Goku on any adventure, but it’s been a long time since there was an extended story that focused on their teamwork. If Dragon Ball DAIMA wants to embrace the original Dragon Ball’s energy by telling a new story that features Goku as a child, then it also makes a lot of sense to have Krillin by his side, just like in the original series.
Goku and Krillin have undeniable chemistry together. However, Krillin has also previously accompanied Goku on destructive demon detours. The feature film, Dragon Ball: Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle, includes plenty of battles between Krillin and demons that establishes his expertise in this field. Krillin and Goku could both draw from this experience when they’re fully immersed in the Demon Realm. Krillin is also likely incredibly cautious around demons after he was turned to stone by Dabura, which means that he’s a responsible ally to have around for this adventure.
6 King Kai Is A Prolific Deity & Martial Arts Master
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Episode 18, “The End Of Snake Way”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Chapter 16 (Dragon Ball Chapter 210), “Masters And Students”
Dragon Ball has gradually expanded its scope to feature a wide range of high-ranking divine deities and Gods that hold dominion over the multiverse. Goku’s inaugural trip to Other World in Dragon Ball Z puts him in contact with King Kai, who teaches him invaluable skills like the Spirit Bomb and Kaio-Ken Attack, while also providing important intel when it comes to the universe’s many secrets. King Kai, despite his power, has become a bit of a gag character in Dragon Ball, especially after Goku has failed to bring him back to life.
A King Kai showcase in Dragon Ball DAIMA could lean into his unique energy with Goku and put them on their first real adventure together. King Kai also has a preexisting relationship with Shin, which makes him a natural extension to the team. It stands to reason that King Kai would be quite knowledgeable when it comes to the Demon Realm and potentially even have information that has eluded Shin.
5 Pikkon Is A Formidable Fighter Who Has Become Goku’s Other World Ally
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Episode 195, “Warriors Of The Dead”; Manga Debut: N/A
Goku’s extended stay in Other World following his death against Cell leads to some exciting opportunities, including a rewarding friendship with the West Galaxy’s Pikkon. Goku and Pikkon first cross paths in the Other World Tournament, but he’s also been prominently featured in several Dragon Ball Z movies and Dragon Ball GT, even though he’s technically a non-canon character. Other World is not analogous to the Demon Realm, but there is a lot in common between the two dimensions.
Pikkon also has substantial experience against Janemba, a powerful demon who is the embodiment of pure evil. Pikkon’s skills would prove to be essential during Goku and Shin’s Demon Realm journey and his help on this front could even potentially earn him back his mortality. Dragon Ball DAIMA could help make Pikkon a proper canonical character and open doors for him in future Dragon Ball Super appearances.
4 Vegeta’s Long-Standing Relationship With Goku Makes Him A Logical Travel Partner
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Episode 5, “Gohan’s Rage”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Chapter 10 (Dragon Ball Chapter 204), “The Needs Of The Many”
Goku and Vegeta’s relationship is one of Dragon Ball’s most entertaining dynamics and it’s genuinely remarkable to see how far they’ve come and how their bond has evolved. Goku and Vegeta have evolved from bitter rivals into competitive companions. Dragon Ball DAIMA has prominently showcased its de-aged and adorable version of Vegeta, the likes of which would be wasted if he’s not front and center in this Demon Realm adventure.
Vegeta doesn’t have much of a connection, if any, to the Demon Realm. However, fans just want to see tiny versions of Goku and Vegeta working together and eliminating monsters. Vegeta is arguably Goku’s strongest friend and his involvement makes sense, purely on a practical level.
3 Hit’s Legendary Assassin Skills Would Be An Asset In The Demon Realm
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball Super, Episode 32, “The Matches Begin! We’re All Off To The ‘Planet With No Name!'”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball Super, Chapter 7, “Warriors From Universe 6”
Dragon Ball Super brings some fascinating figures into the fray when it comes to Universe 6’s powerful roster of fighters. Hit, a prolific assassin, quickly leaves an impression on Goku and the Saiyan has to push himself to unprecedented places in order to defeat this warrior. Goku and Hit develop a respectful relationship that still has plenty of room to grow. It doesn’t look like any Dragon Ball Super characters will appear in Dragon Ball DAIMA, but Hit would be such an entertaining addition, especially in a dangerous destination like the Demon Realm.
Dragon Ball could create circumstances that explain how Goku and Hit were able to meet in DAIMA without either of them remembering each other in Dragon Ball Super. There’s just so much potential in Hit using his celebrated skills and debilitating Time-Skip Technique against hordes of deadly demons. Goku and Hit are long overdue for a joint journey and Dragon Ball DAIMA could help deliver on this front.
2 Mr. Popo Has Untapped Potential & Would Make For A Surprising Supporting Player
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball, Episode 124, “Temple Above The Clouds”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball, Chapter 163, “The Sanctuary Of Kami-Sama”
Mr. Popo serves the important role of Earth’s Guardian’s attendant, yet he’s a cryptic character who is often kept at a distance. Mr. Popo’s appearances are typically restricted to the Lookout as he helps Kami or Dende with their Guardian duties. That being said, Mr. Popo has proven himself to be surprisingly strong through his training with Goku and a temporary tussle against Super Saiyan Goten and Trunks. Mr. Popo clearly has a lot of depth and mystery, even if Dragon Ball has only scratched the surface of it all.
It’s fair to say that no one is expecting Mr. Popo to play a central role in Dragon Ball DAIMA, but this is perhaps why it’s such an exciting idea. Mr. Popo could have intense ties to the Demon Realm and it’d be worthwhile to see what he can really do on the battlefield. Mr. Popo lending his assistance to Goku and Shin could even be the result of Dende getting turned into a kid and it being Mr. Popo’s roundabout way of showing fealty to Earth’s Guardian.
1 Demon King Dabura Is Dragon Ball’s Most Prominent Canon Demon To Date
Anime Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Episode 220, “The Wizard’s Curse”; Manga Debut: Dragon Ball Z, Chapter 252 (Dragon Ball Chapter 446), “Bobbidi The Warlock”
Dragon Ball Z’s Buu Saga introduces many powerful minions who are under Babidi’s control, but chief among them is Dabura. Dabura spent thousands of years as the Demon Realm’s king and ruler before he was manipulated by the dark wizard, Babidi. Dabura is a vicious and violent individual who would have no interest in aiding Goku, especially in a pursuit to take down other demons. However, there’s some fascinating material with Dabura that takes place after his death that highlights how he’s turned over a new leaf.
Dabura gets sent to Heaven, rather than Hell, since the latter wouldn’t exactly be a punishment for the demon. Dabura’s brief time in Heaven completely rehabilitates him and he becomes a kindhearted character when he’s seen alongside Bulma and Chi-Chi. This version of Dabura would be a truly exciting travel companion for Goku and Shin. The redeemed Dabura has barely been explored and DAIMA’s storyline would naturally facilitate his cooperation.