A Tribute to Akira Toriyama

✨ Generative AI was used in the creation of this post.

The Man, The Myth, The Legend

Hey there! Have you ever found yourself, as a kid, glued to the TV, waiting for the next episode of Dragon Ball Z to air, while trying to mimic Goku’s Kamehame wave in your living room? If you just nodded your head or felt a pang of nostalgia, then boy, do I have a story for you. It’s about a man whose imagination knew no bounds, a legend in the manga world, and the creator of the Dragon Ball series - Akira Toriyama.

So, grab your favorite snack, and let’s take a trip down memory lane, shall we?

A Spirit Bomb of Sadness

Akira Toriyama, the genius behind Goku’s adventures, recently left us at the age of 68. The news hit us like a Spirit Bomb, leaving a crater-sized hole in the hearts of fans worldwide. It’s like part of our childhood just… poof, vanished. But, let’s not dwell on the sadness. Instead, let’s celebrate the life and legacy of a man who taught us that with enough determination (and maybe a Senzu Bean or two), we can overcome any obstacle.

The Journey Begins

Born on April 5, 1955, in Nagoya, Japan, Toriyama-sensei didn’t just wake up one day and decide to create one of the most iconic manga and anime series in history. No, sir. He started his journey in 1978 with Wonder Island, published in Weekly Shonen Jump. But it wasn’t until 1984, with the launch of Dragon Ball, that he catapulted into stardom. And let me tell you, the world of manga and anime was never the same again.

More Than Just a Series

Dragon Ball wasn’t just a series; it was a phenomenon. It crossed borders, broke cultural barriers, and became a staple in every otaku’s diet. From the pages of manga to the animated series, movies, video games, and even that Hollywood movie we don’t talk about (cough Dragon Ball Evolution cough), Goku and his gang were everywhere.

But what made Dragon Ball so special? Was it the epic battles that lasted for what seemed like eternity? The hair that defied gravity? Or perhaps it was the way it seamlessly blended humor, action, and heartwarming moments. Whatever the secret ingredient was, Toriyama-sensei found it and served it up in a way that had us all hooked.

Lessons Beyond the Fight

And let’s not forget the life lessons, folks. Yes, Dragon Ball was more than just flying martial artists and energy blasts. It taught us the value of friendship, perseverance, and that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it (hello, Dragon Balls). It showed us that heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and that even the most unlikely characters can save the world.

A Special Place in the Philippines

Now, let’s talk about the impact Toriyama-sensei had on the Philippines. Remember rushing home from school to catch Dragon Ball Z on RPN 9? Those were the days. The Tagalog-dubbed version had a charm of its own, didn’t it? It was like our daily dose of adrenaline, and we couldn’t get enough.

Beyond Dragon Ball

But Toriyama-sensei’s influence didn’t stop at Dragon Ball. He also left his mark on the video game industry, with titles like Chrono Trigger and the Dragon Quest series. The man was a jack-of-all-trades, and his creative genius knew no bounds.

A Super Saiyan Legacy

As we bid farewell to Akira Toriyama, let’s not forget the joy and inspiration he brought into our lives. His legacy will live on through Goku, Vegeta, Bulma, and the rest of the gang. So, here’s to you, Toriyama-sensei. Thank you for the adventures, the laughs, and for making our childhoods a little brighter. You may have left this world, but you’ll always be a Super Saiyan in our hearts.

Keeping the Spirit Alive

And to my fellow fans, let’s keep the spirit of Dragon Ball alive. Whether it’s by rewatching the series, sharing it with the next generation, or just living by the lessons it taught us, let’s honor the memory of a man who showed us that anything is possible if you just believe.

Hanggang sa susunod, mga kaibigan. Paalam!