What's Happening?
The Dragon Ball franchise is set to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a special event called Dragon Ball Genkidamatsuri on January 25, 2026. This event will be livestreamed and will feature new announcements for the franchise, which has been in a state of uncertainty since the death of its creator, Akira Toriyama, in 2024. A new video game is confirmed to be revealed during the event. Dragon Ball, which began as a manga in 1984, gained international fame with its anime adaptations, particularly Dragon Ball Z, which played a significant role in popularizing Japanese anime in the U.S. The franchise is known for its video games, which have been released on almost every major console since the NES era. The event will take place at Makuhari Messe
near Tokyo and will include exhibitions, merchandise booths, and game areas. Key announcements will be made by Son Goku's Japanese voice actor Masako Nozawa and Dragon Ball series executive producer Akio Iyoku.
Why It's Important?
The Dragon Ball franchise has had a significant impact on the global entertainment industry, particularly in the U.S., where it helped popularize Japanese anime. The announcement of a new video game is crucial for maintaining the franchise's relevance and engaging its fanbase, especially after the passing of its creator, Akira Toriyama. The event could also potentially reveal new anime series or movies, which would continue to expand the franchise's influence. The success of recent anime films like Demon Slayer and Chainsaw Man suggests a strong market for new Dragon Ball content. The franchise's ability to adapt and introduce new content is vital for its longevity and continued success in the competitive entertainment landscape.
What's Next?
The Dragon Ball Genkidamatsuri event will likely set the stage for future developments in the franchise. Fans can expect detailed announcements about the new video game, which could explore different genres or continue the tradition of fighting games. The event may also address rumors of a new Dragon Ball animated movie set for release in 2027. The outcomes of this event will influence the franchise's direction and its ability to attract new audiences while retaining its existing fanbase. The livestream of the event will allow global fans to participate and engage with the announcements in real-time.
