Uncover the enduring of Akira Toriyama's works, a visionary artist who has shaped popular culture. From the thrilling battles of Dragon Ball to the quirky humor of Dr. Slump, his works continue to inspire fans worldwide. Discover rare figures and collectibles at Japan Figure to celebrate your love for Toriyama's creations.

Major Manga Series by Akira Toriyama

Dr. Slump (1980)

Dr. Slump (Dr. スランプ) is a classic manga series created by the legendary Akira Toriyama, the same genius behind Dragon Ball. Originally serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1980 to 1984, Dr. Slump follows the hilarious adventures of the quirky inhabitants of Penguin Village.   

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The story revolves around the eccentric inventor Dr. Senbei Norimaki and his incredibly strong and somewhat dim-witted robot creation, Arale Norimaki. Arale, with her signature bowl cut and boundless energy, often causes chaos and hilarity wherever she goes.

Dr. Slump is known for its wacky humor, absurd situations, and unique blend of science fiction and comedy. The series introduced many memorable characters, including the beautiful but airheaded Akane Kimimori, the bumbling police officer Officer Obotchaman, and the mischievous alien boy Gatchan.

Dr. Slump, one of Akira Toriyama's works, not only showcased his early artistic talent but also laid the foundation for his future masterpiece, Dragon Ball. Both series share similar elements like quirky characters, over-the-top action, and a sense of humor that appeals to both children and adults.

Dragon Ball

Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball is a legendary manga and anime series that has captivated the hearts of millions worldwide.

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As one of Akira Toriyama mangas, it follows the story of Goku, a young boy with extraordinary strength and a pure heart, as he embarks on a thrilling adventure to collect the seven Dragon Balls, mystical orbs that can grant any wish.

The series is renowned for its dynamic and imaginative martial arts battles, showcasing a wide range of techniques and powers. As Goku and his friends train and grow, they unlock incredible transformations and abilities, pushing the boundaries of their strength.

The bonds between the characters are central to the story, emphasizing the importance of loyalty, trust, and teamwork. Dragon Ball balances intense action with lighthearted humor and heartwarming moments, creating a unique and engaging experience.

Dragon Ball has had a profound impact on popular culture, influencing countless other anime and manga series. Its iconic characters, memorable storylines, and groundbreaking animation have solidified its place as one of the most beloved franchises of all time.

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Cowa! (1997-1998)

Cowa! is a charming manga series created by the legendary Akira Toriyama, renowned for his iconic works like Dragon Ball and other entries in Akira Toriyama's works.

Published from 1997 to 1998, Cowa! offers a whimsical and heartwarming tale that deviates from the high-octane action of Toriyama's previous works.

The story follows the adventures of a group of adorable monster children: Paifu, José, and Arpon. When their town is struck by a mysterious illness, they embark on a quest to find a cure. Along the way, they encounter a grumpy human boy named Maruyama, who initially resists their friendship but eventually warms up to them.

Cowa! showcases Toriyama's signature art style, characterized by expressive characters and vibrant colors. The manga's lighthearted tone and imaginative world-building create a delightful reading experience for both children and adults.

Despite its relatively short run, Cowa! has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is considered a beloved work in Toriyama's repertoire. Its unique blend of humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments continues to captivate readers to this day.

Sand Land (2000)

Sand Land, a unique manga series crafted by the legendary Akira Toriyama, the visionary behind Dragon Ball, transports readers to a post-apocalyptic desert world where water is an invaluable treasure.

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In this short yet action-packed adventure, a young demon prince named Beelzebub, a human sheriff named Rao, and a cunning old thief form an unlikely alliance. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to discover the legendary "Spring of Life," a mythical water source that holds the promise of salvation for their arid world.

What sets Sand Land apart is its distinctive desert setting, a stark contrast to the vibrant landscapes of Toriyama's other creations. While the story delves into serious themes, Toriyama's signature humor infuses the narrative, creating a fun and lighthearted reading experience.

The manga is brimming with thrilling battles, treacherous desert crossings, and encounters with bizarre creatures. Moreover, it explores relatable themes of friendship, cooperation, and the significance of water conservation.

Whether you're a devoted fan of Akira Toriyama's work or simply enjoy fantasy adventures with a touch of humor, Sand Land is an absolute must-read.

Awawa World (1977)

Akira Toriyama's Awawa World is one of his earliest known manga works. This short, humorous story blends elements of fantasy and historical fiction. The plot revolves around a young boy named Awawa who lives in a world filled with bizarre creatures and strange occurrences.

Awawa World showcases Toriyama's early artistic style and storytelling abilities. Like many of his later works, it is filled with quirky humor and absurd situations. The world of Awawa is a whimsical and imaginative place, filled with fantastical creatures and strange customs.

For fans of Akira Toriyama, Awawa World offers a fascinating look into the beginnings of a legendary manga artist's career. It's an opportunity to see his early comedic sensibilities and storytelling techniques, which would later become hallmarks of his work.

Mysterious Rain Jack

Mysterious Rain Jack is an early work by Akira Toriyama, one of the Akira Toriyama creations, that serves as a humorous parody of the Star Wars franchise. It’s a short series that showcases Toriyama’s early style and his knack for comedic timing.

The story follows the adventures of a mysterious hero named Rain Jack, who bears a striking resemblance to Luke Skywalker.

He battles against a dark lord named Darth Vader and is aided by a wise old wizard named Yoda. The series is filled with absurd humor, silly situations, and over-the-top action.

For fans of Toriyama’s work, Mysterious Rain Jack offers a glimpse into his early style and influences. If you enjoy Star Wars and a good laugh, this parody is a fun and lighthearted read.

The series is short and easy to read, making it perfect for a quick dose of comedic relief. While Mysterious Rain Jack may not be as well-known as some of Toriyama’s later works, it’s still a fun and interesting piece of his early career.

Mr. Ho (1986)

Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, also crafted a lesser-known one-shot manga titled Mr. Ho.

This quirky story, a testament to Akira Toriyama's creations, introduces a unique character with an extraordinary ability to contort his body in unimaginable ways.

Mr. Ho follows the humorous adventures of its titular character as he navigates everyday life with his peculiar gift. Toriyama's signature humor shines through, with absurd situations and quirky characters that will leave readers chuckling.

The manga's innovative concept of body manipulation adds a fresh and imaginative twist to the comedic storytelling.

While Mr. Ho may not be as widely recognized as Toriyama's other masterpieces, it's a delightful read for fans of his work. The manga's quick and fun format, combined with its unique premise and humorous tone, makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a lighthearted and entertaining experience.

Lady Red (1987)

Akira Toriyama's Lady Red is a short, comedic sci-fi story that introduces a unique and powerful protagonist.

Lady Red, a mysterious woman with incredible strength and shape-shifting abilities, utilizes her powers to combat crime and safeguard the innocent. Her adventures often lead to humorous and chaotic situations, characteristic of Toriyama's signature style.

Lady Red seamlessly blends elements of humor, action, and science fiction. The story is filled with slapstick comedy and absurd situations, while also incorporating futuristic technology and settings. Lady Red's dynamic battles against villains add excitement to the narrative.

If you're a fan of Akira Toriyama's works, such as Dragon Ball or Dr. Slump, you'll likely appreciate the unique blend of humor, action, and sci-fi in Lady Red. The story's one-shot format makes it a perfect choice for a quick and entertaining read.

Lady Red herself is a fascinating character with a mysterious past and a wide range of abilities. If you're seeking a fun and quirky sci-fi story with a strong female lead, Lady Red is definitely worth exploring.

Young Master Ken'nosuke (1987)

Set against the backdrop of feudal Japan, Young Master Ken'nosuke follows the comedic exploits of a mischievous young samurai.

Despite his noble upbringing, Ken'nosuke is far more interested in pranks, sweets, and avoiding training than mastering the ways of the sword. Toriyama's signature humorous tone shines through, with plenty of slapstick humor and quirky characters, reminiscent of his classic Akira Toriyama mangas.

While the story is rooted in a historical setting, it takes creative liberties with historical accuracy for comedic effect. This juxtaposition of historical elements and humorous situations creates a unique and entertaining reading experience.

At the heart of the story is the charming protagonist, Ken'nosuke, a lovable character with a mischievous streak and a sweet tooth.

Young Master Ken'nosuke is a delightful one-shot that appeals to fans of Akira Toriyama's work. If you've enjoyed his other creations like Dragon Ball or Dr. Slump, you'll appreciate the familiar humor and character designs in this manga.

It's a quick and fun read, perfect for a lighthearted escape. The historical setting provides a backdrop for some amusing fish-out-of-water scenarios, adding an extra layer of charm to the story.

Young Master Ken'nosuke showcases Toriyama's versatility as a storyteller, as he effortlessly switches between genres. This one-shot was so popular that it was even adapted into a short anime film.

Kajika (1998)

Akira Toriyama's Kajika is a concise yet action-packed manga series that follows the story of a young boy named Kajika. After an accidental encounter with a fox, Kajika is cursed to become a half-human, half-fox creature.

This transformation grants him unique abilities and sets him on a journey of self-discovery and adventure.

Filled with Toriyama's signature humor and quirky characters, Kajika is a fun and engaging read. While the story has its serious moments, it's predominantly light-hearted and action-packed.

Readers will enjoy the exciting battles and thrilling chases as Kajika navigates his newfound abilities and faces various challenges and enemies.

Kajika is a great choice for fans of Akira Toriyama's works. The unique setting, filled with mythical creatures and supernatural elements, offers a fresh perspective.

The relatable themes of friendship, acceptance, and overcoming adversity resonate with readers of all ages. If you're looking for a quick and enjoyable read with plenty of action and humor, Kajika is definitely worth checking out.

Jaco the Galactic Patrolman (2013)

Jaco the Galactic Patrolman is a comedic science fiction manga that follows the adventures of Jaco, a galactic policeman from Planet Popstar.

Arriving on Earth to investigate mysterious incidents, he unexpectedly meets a young boy named Goku. As Jaco delves deeper into his mission, he encounters various alien threats and uncovers hidden secrets about the universe. 

This manga is one of the works by Akira Toriyama, known for his influential mangas such as Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, which have shaped the world of anime and manga with their unique storytelling and distinct art style.

This manga offers a unique blend of genres, combining science fiction, comedy, and action to create a humorous and exciting story. The quirky character of Jaco, with his eccentric personality and strange customs, adds a layer of charm to the narrative.

The series also features intriguing connections to the Dragon Ball universe, delighting fans with references and cameos. Toriyama's signature humor shines through, with plenty of gags and witty dialogue.

If you're a fan of Akira Toriyama's work, you'll likely appreciate Jaco the Galactic Patrolman. The manga's unique galactic setting and the introduction of alien cultures offer a fresh perspective on the Dragon Ball universe.

The engaging characters, including Jaco and the supporting cast of aliens and humans, make for an entertaining read. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, Jaco the Galactic Patrolman is a fun and lighthearted manga that's definitely worth checking out.

Video Game Contributions

Dragon Quest Series

Dragon Quest, known as Dragon Warrior in North America until 2005, is a beloved series of role-playing games (RPGs) created by the legendary trio of Yuji Horii, Akira Toriyama, and Koichi Sugiyama.

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Since its inception in 1986, the series has been a cornerstone of the RPG genre, captivating players with its charming world, engaging gameplay, and iconic characters.

The Dragon Quest series is renowned for its classic turn-based combat, immersive storylines, and distinctive art style. Players engage in strategic battles against monsters and bosses, while immersing themselves in epic tales of heroism, friendship, and the battle between good and evil.

The series is further elevated by the iconic art of Akira Toriyama, whose whimsical style brings the world of Dragon Quest to life, and the unforgettable orchestral scores composed by Koichi Sugiyama.

Exploration and adventure are also core elements, as players journey through vast and diverse worlds filled with secrets, treasures, and challenging dungeons.

Popular Titles in the Series

• Dragon Quest I: The original game that started it all, introducing players to the classic formula of the series.
• Dragon Quest III: Widely considered one of the best RPGs ever made, featuring a memorable cast of characters and a deep storyline.
• Dragon Quest VIII: Praised for its stunning visuals, engaging story, and memorable characters.
• Dragon Quest XI: A critically acclaimed entry that blends classic RPG elements with modern graphics and gameplay.

Dragon Quest's Impact on the Gaming World:

The Dragon Quest series, a pioneering force in the RPG genre, has irrevocably shaped the gaming landscape. Its iconic character designs, influenced heavily by Akira Toriyama's works, captivating narratives, and innovative gameplay mechanics have served as inspiration for countless titles that followed.

From the charming pixel art of the early games to the stunning visuals of modern entries, the series consistently delivers immersive worlds filled with memorable characters and challenging quests.

The availability of Dragon Quest titles on a variety of platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and PC, ensures that both seasoned RPG veterans and newcomers can embark on epic adventures.

With remastered and remade versions of classic titles, the series continues to captivate players of all ages, solidifying its position as a beloved and influential franchise.

Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger, a timeless masterpiece developed by a dream team of industry legends, including Yuji Horii, Akira Toriyama, and Hironobu Sakaguchi, has left an enduring mark on the RPG genre. 

Released in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), this groundbreaking game captivated players with its innovative time-traveling narrative, a diverse cast of memorable characters, and an iconic soundtrack composed by Yasunori Mitsuda.

The game's unique Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which blends real-time and turn-based elements, adds a strategic layer to combat encounters. As players journey through time, exploring prehistoric eras, futuristic cities, and medieval kingdoms, they uncover a rich and intricate storyline filled with unexpected twists and turns. 

Chrono Trigger's timeless appeal, coupled with its innovative gameplay and captivating story, has solidified its place as one of the greatest RPGs ever created.

Blue Dragon

Blue Dragon is a role-playing video game developed by Mistwalker and Artoon in collaboration with Microsoft Game Studios Japan and published by Microsoft Game Studios for the Xbox 360.

It was released in Japan on December 7, 2006, in Europe on August 24, 2007, in North America on August 28, 2007, and in Australia on August 30, 2007.   

The game was designed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of the Final Fantasy series, and features character designs by Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball. The music for the game was composed by Nobuo Uematsu, who also composed the music for the Final Fantasy series.   

Blue Dragon tells the story of five young heroes who possess the ability to control shadow creatures called "Shadows". These Shadows are manifestations of the heroes' inner strength and can be used to fight enemies and solve puzzles.

The game features a turn-based battle system, similar to other traditional RPGs, where players can choose which attacks and spells to use in battle.

Blue Dragon received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its story, characters, music, and graphics. However, some critics criticized the game's combat system and pacing.

Dragon Ball Video Games

The Dragon Ball franchise has spawned a diverse array of video games, catering to various gaming preferences.

From classic arcade fighters like the Dragon Ball FighterZ series and the Budokai series to immersive RPGs such as Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot, which allows players to relive the iconic Z Saga, there's a Dragon Ball game for almost every gamer. 

For those who prefer strategic gameplay, card battle games like Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle offer a unique experience. Additionally, open-world action games like Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 provide vast, explorable worlds filled with quests and challenges. 

With its rich history of captivating games, the Dragon Ball franchise continues to entertain fans, offering a chance to relive the excitement and adventure of the beloved anime and manga series.

Impact on Manga and Anime Culture

Global Influence of Dragon Ball

Dragon Ball, a beloved anime and manga series created by Akira Toriyama, has had a significant global impact. It popularized the shonen genre, known for its action-packed stories and strong, determined protagonists.

The series introduced iconic characters like Goku, Vegeta, and Piccolo, who have become household names worldwide.

 

Dragon Ball's influence, as one of Akira Toriyama's works, can be seen in various aspects of popular culture, from video games and merchandise to fashion and music.

It has inspired countless other anime and manga series, demonstrating its enduring legacy and impact on the world of entertainment.

Legacy of Dr. Slump in Comedic Manga

Dr. Slump, a groundbreaking comedic manga by Akira Toriyama, paved the way for a new era of humor in the medium.

Its unique blend of absurd humor, pop culture references, and slapstick comedy has influenced countless mangaka, including Eiichiro Oda and Masashi Kishimoto.

The series' central character, Arale, a childlike robot with superhuman strength and a penchant for mischief, has become an iconic figure in manga history.

Her infectious laughter and catchphrase, "Nyan!", continue to resonate with fans. Dr. Slump fearlessly parodied popular culture, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, and showcasing Toriyama's imaginative storytelling.

Even decades after its conclusion, Dr. Slump remains a beloved classic, with fans eagerly anticipating potential reboots or remakes. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to evoke laughter and joy.

By pushing the boundaries of comedic storytelling, Dr. Slump has left an indelible mark on the world of manga and continues to inspire new generations of readers.

Toriyama's Legacy: A Lasting Impact

Akira Toriyama's works is a testament to his extraordinary talent and influence on the world of manga and anime.

His iconic creations, such as Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, have captivated audiences for decades and continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

Inspired Countless Artists

Toriyama's unique art style, dynamic storytelling, and memorable characters have inspired countless artists and creators. His influence can be seen in numerous manga and anime series, both in terms of artistic style and narrative techniques.

Many artists openly acknowledge Toriyama as a major source of inspiration, citing his works as pivotal in their own creative journey.

Paved the Way for Future Creators

Toriyama's success in the 1980s and 1990s helped to popularize manga and anime on a global scale. Akira Toriyama's works broke down cultural barriers and introduced these genres to Western audiences, paving the way for future creators to reach wider audiences.

The success of Dragon Ball and other Toriyama-created series opened doors for countless other manga and anime artists, allowing them to showcase their work to a global audience.

Shaped Popular Culture

Toriyama's success in the 1980s and 1990s helped to popularize manga and anime on a global scale. His works broke down cultural barriers and introduced these genres to Western audiences, paving the way for future creators to reach wider audiences.

The success of Dragon Ball and other Toriyama-created series opened doors for countless other manga and anime artists, allowing them to showcase their work to a global audience.

In conclusion, Akira Toriyama's legacy is a testament to his extraordinary talent and influence on the world of manga and anime. His iconic creations have inspired countless artists, paved the way for future creators, and shaped popular culture. His influence continues to be felt today, as his works continue to captivate and inspire new generations of fans.

Akira Toriyama's impact on popular culture is undeniable. His iconic creations, such as Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, have captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Through his visionary storytelling and distinctive art style, Akira Toriyama's works has left an enduring legacy. As we continue to appreciate his work, we can celebrate his contributions by collecting rare figures and collectibles from Japan Figure.