With a heavy heart, we acknowledge the passing of Akira Toriyama, an iconic figure whose legacy is woven into the fabric of manga, anime, and video gaming. Toriyama, renowned for his creation of the legendary Dragon Ball series, was more than just the architect of a globally celebrated franchise. His artistic journey, characterized by versatility and a profound impact across the entertainment spectrum, has left an indelible mark on pop culture.
This exploration, while bittersweet, celebrates the top 5 works of Akira Toriyama outside of Dragon Ball, showcasing his imaginative prowess and the timeless contributions he made to the world.
5. Blue Dragon: A Fantasy Unleashed
Collaborating with Hironobu Sakaguchi, the mastermind behind the Final Fantasy series, Akira Toriyama embarked on creating Blue Dragon. This role-playing marvel for the Xbox 360 saw Toriyama diving deep into character design and world-building, weaving a narrative around Shu and his friends’ quest against a malevolent force. The transition of Blue Dragon from a video game to an anime adaptation is a testament to its captivating universe, further enriched by Toriyama’s artistic vision.
4. Jaco the Galactic Patrolman: A Humorous Odyssey
Set in the familiar universe of Dragon Ball, Jaco the Galactic Patrolman stands out as a unique creation with its standalone manga series. Chronicling the adventures of Jaco, an extraterrestrial law enforcer on Earth, Toriyama blends his signature humor and action-packed storytelling. Despite its brief run, Jaco’s escapades offer a refreshing take on the Dragon Ball world, highlighting Toriyama’s ability to craft engaging spin-offs that resonate with fans.
Akira Toriyama, creator of the Dragon Ball series has passed away at the age of 68. He is a legend in anime and gaming, his work includes Dr. Slump, Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, and other classic works. https://t.co/G9wzWHWHLP pic.twitter.com/xy2rqJQ5h9
— IGN (@IGN) March 8, 2024
3. Dragon Quest: Crafting Iconic Adventures
Toriyama’s collaboration with the Dragon Quest series cements his legacy in the gaming world. His distinctive character and creature designs bring a unique charm and identity to this celebrated role-playing game series. From the adorable Slimes to the daunting dragons, Toriyama’s creations have become iconic, influencing the JRPG genre at large and demonstrating his unmatched flair for designing compelling characters.
2. Chrono Trigger: A Timeless Masterpiece
Chrono Trigger is often hailed as one of the greatest video games ever created, and Toriyama’s contribution as the character designer is pivotal. His imaginative artwork lends a unique visual identity to the game, enhancing its rich narrative and time-traveling quests. The diverse cast, led by Crono, benefits immensely from Toriyama’s creative touch, making Chrono Trigger a beloved classic that transcends the boundaries of video gaming.
1. Dr. Slump: The Comedy Gold Standard
Before the fame of Dragon Ball, there was Dr. Slump, a series that encapsulates Toriyama’s genius in blending humor, science fiction, and whimsical characters. The tales of Senbei Norimaki and his android creation, Arale, offer a comedic yet heartwarming narrative. Toriyama’s knack for puns and eccentric humor, coupled with his distinctive art style, renders Dr. Slump a timeless treasure in manga history.
The Enduring Legacy of Akira Toriyama
The loss of Akira Toriyama is deeply felt across the manga, anime, and video gaming communities. His contributions extend far beyond the creation of Dragon Ball, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in entertainment. Through works like Blue Dragon, Jaco the Galactic Patrolman, Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, and Dr. Slump, Toriyama’s creative vision and enduring influence on pop culture are unmistakably evident. As we celebrate his life and achievements, Akira Toriyama’s legacy as a true legend in the entertainment industry will forever be cherished.
