Hey Dragon Ball fans! Let's dive into a topic that's been debated for years: Is Dragon Ball GT worth watching? For many of us who grew up with Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, the introduction of Dragon Ball GT was met with mixed feelings. Some loved it, some hated it, and others were just plain confused. So, let’s break down the good, the bad, and the spiky-haired to help you decide if it deserves a spot on your watch list.

Dragon Ball GT, which stands for Grand Tour, originally aired from 1996 to 1997. Unlike its predecessors, Dragon Ball GT wasn't based on Akira Toriyama's original manga. Instead, it was created by Toei Animation as a continuation of the Dragon Ball Z storyline. This immediately set it apart and contributed to much of the controversy surrounding it. Many fans felt that without Toriyama's direct involvement, the series lacked the same charm and quality of the earlier installments. However, it's worth noting that Toriyama did contribute some design work and story ideas, so it's not entirely disconnected from his vision.

The series picks up a decade after the end of Dragon Ball Z. Goku is accidentally turned back into a child by a wish made to the Black Star Dragon Balls. These Dragon Balls are more powerful and scattered across the universe, and if they're not gathered back on Earth within a year, the planet will be destroyed. Thus begins Goku, Pan (his granddaughter), and Trunks' intergalactic adventure to retrieve the Black Star Dragon Balls and save Earth. This premise offered a fresh start, moving away from the Earth-centric battles of Dragon Ball Z and opening up a whole new universe of possibilities. However, it also meant a significant shift in tone and style, which didn't sit well with everyone.

One of the most significant changes in Dragon Ball GT is the focus on exploration and adventure in the early episodes. The trio visits various planets, each with its unique inhabitants and challenges. This format allows for world-building and introduces a variety of new characters and villains. However, some viewers found these early episodes slow-paced and less engaging compared to the high-octane battles of Dragon Ball Z. The shift from intense fighting to a more exploratory approach was a gamble that didn't pay off for all fans. Nevertheless, these episodes do offer a unique flavor that distinguishes Dragon Ball GT from its predecessors. They provide a glimpse into different cultures and environments within the Dragon Ball universe, expanding the scope of the story beyond Earth and its immediate threats.

As the series progresses, it eventually returns to the more action-oriented style that Dragon Ball is known for. The introduction of villains like General Rilldo, Dr. Myuu, and the Baby saga brings back the intense battles and transformations that fans craved. The Baby saga, in particular, is often praised as one of the highlights of Dragon Ball GT. Baby, a parasitic being created by the Tuffles, seeks revenge against the Saiyans for their destruction of his race. He possesses Vegeta and transforms him into a powerful Super Saiyan, leading to a dramatic and emotional conflict with Goku. This arc is filled with intense fights, strategic battles, and moments of genuine tension, making it a standout in the series. The Baby saga explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the consequences of past actions, adding depth to the storyline.

The Pros of Watching Dragon Ball GT

Alright, let’s get into the reasons why you might actually enjoy Dragon Ball GT. Despite its criticisms, there are definitely some redeeming qualities that make it worth a watch for dedicated Dragon Ball fans. Here are a few pros:

• Unique Transformations: Super Saiyan 4. Need I say more? This transformation is arguably one of the coolest and most visually striking in the entire Dragon Ball franchise. It combines the raw power of a Saiyan with the primal look of the Great Ape form, resulting in a powerful and distinctive appearance. The red fur, long hair, and intense eyes make Super Saiyan 4 a fan favorite, and seeing Goku and Vegeta achieve this form is a definite highlight of the series.

• New Story Arcs: While not based on the original manga, Dragon Ball GT introduces fresh storylines and villains that expand the Dragon Ball universe. The aforementioned Baby saga is a prime example, offering a complex and compelling narrative that explores themes of revenge and identity. Other arcs, such as the Super 17 saga and the Shadow Dragons saga, provide unique challenges and introduce new concepts to the Dragon Ball mythos. These arcs may not always hit the mark, but they offer a different perspective on the Dragon Ball universe and provide opportunities for character development and exciting battles.

• Character Development: Characters like Pan and Trunks get more screen time and development, which is a nice change of pace. Pan, in particular, plays a significant role in the early episodes, showcasing her potential as a fighter and her relationship with her grandfather, Goku. Trunks also gets to shine, demonstrating his skills and intelligence in various situations. While their development may not be perfect, it's refreshing to see these characters take on more prominent roles and contribute to the overall storyline. Additionally, Dragon Ball GT explores the relationship between Goku and his family in more depth, providing emotional moments and character interactions that add to the series' appeal.

• The Ending: Many fans agree that the ending of Dragon Ball GT is one of the most emotional and satisfying in the entire franchise. The final episode brings closure to Goku's story and provides a sense of finality that is both touching and memorable. The ending is a bittersweet farewell to the character who has been the heart of the Dragon Ball series for so long, and it leaves a lasting impression on viewers. Whether you love or hate Dragon Ball GT, the ending is definitely worth watching, as it provides a sense of closure and completes Goku's journey in a meaningful way.

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The Cons of Watching Dragon Ball GT

Okay, now for the not-so-good stuff. Dragon Ball GT has its fair share of flaws, and it's important to be aware of them before diving in. Here are some of the main criticisms:

• Inconsistent Power Levels: Power scaling in Dragon Ball is already a mess, but GT takes it to a whole new level. Characters' power levels fluctuate wildly, making battles feel arbitrary and confusing. Sometimes, characters who should be incredibly powerful struggle against weaker opponents, while other times, they suddenly become unbeatable. This inconsistency undermines the sense of tension and excitement in the battles, making it difficult to invest in the outcomes. The power scaling issues in Dragon Ball GT are a major source of frustration for many fans, as they detract from the overall quality of the series.

• Goku is Overpowered (Again): Goku is once again the main focus, often overshadowing other characters who could have used more development. While Goku is undoubtedly a beloved character, his constant dominance in battles and storylines can become tiresome. Many fans felt that Dragon Ball GT missed an opportunity to give other characters, such as Gohan, Vegeta, and Gotenks, more significant roles and development. Instead, the series often resorts to having Goku save the day, diminishing the contributions of other characters and making the overall narrative less engaging.

• Questionable Writing: Let’s be honest, some of the plotlines and character decisions in Dragon Ball GT are just plain weird. From the Black Star Dragon Balls to some of the villains' motivations, there are moments that leave you scratching your head. The writing in Dragon Ball GT often lacks the consistency and coherence of the earlier Dragon Ball series, leading to plot holes and inconsistencies that can be distracting. While some fans appreciate the series' willingness to take risks and try new things, others find the questionable writing to be a major drawback.

• Animation Quality: While not terrible, the animation in Dragon Ball GT is noticeably less polished than in later installments like Dragon Ball Super. The animation quality can be inconsistent, with some episodes looking better than others. This is partly due to the fact that Dragon Ball GT was produced in the late 1990s, before the widespread adoption of digital animation techniques. While the animation is not necessarily a deal-breaker, it's worth noting that it may not be as visually appealing as more recent Dragon Ball series.

So, Is It Worth Watching?

Ultimately, whether Dragon Ball GT is worth watching depends on your personal preferences. If you're a die-hard Dragon Ball fan who wants to experience every aspect of the franchise, then it's definitely worth giving it a shot. Just go in with an open mind and be prepared for some inconsistencies and questionable plot decisions. However, if you're new to the Dragon Ball universe or only a casual fan, you might be better off sticking with Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, and Dragon Ball Super, which are generally considered to be of higher quality.

Consider watching Dragon Ball GT if:

• You love Dragon Ball and want to see more of the characters and universe.
• You're interested in unique transformations like Super Saiyan 4.
• You don't mind some inconsistencies in the storyline.

Consider skipping Dragon Ball GT if:

• You're new to Dragon Ball and want to start with the best the franchise has to offer.
• You're easily bothered by plot holes and inconsistent power levels.
• You prefer stories that are directly based on Akira Toriyama's manga.

In conclusion, Dragon Ball GT is a mixed bag. It has its moments of brilliance, such as the Super Saiyan 4 transformation and the ending, but it also has its flaws, such as inconsistent power levels and questionable writing. Whether it's worth watching is a matter of personal preference, but hopefully, this breakdown has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy watching, or not!