The latest installment in the franchise has generated significant buzz in the fan community. Even individuals who typically don’t follow the series have found something appealing in this new offering. The fresh vibe that Dragon Ball DAIMA introduces has reinvigorated elements that have been lacking in previous iterations of the franchise. However, to say that Dragon Ball DAIMA represents the pinnacle of Akira Toriyama’s works would be misleading. There are certainly missteps within the series, and one of the most notable is the presentation of King Gomah.
In the realm of Dragon Ball, a more compelling figure had previously occupied the role of Demon Realm King. King Gomah currently rules the Demon Realm, assuming control after Dabura's demise. Dabura, the former ruler, also served as a secondary antagonist in Dragon Ball Z and left a far more lasting impression than Gomah. The differences in their character design and overall demeanor highlight this disparity.
Dabura’s visual representation aligns closely with traditional portrayals of dark, malevolent figures, featuring red skin, a goatee, horns, and sharp ears, coupled with fierce eyes. This striking appearance sets a contrasting tone when placed beside Gomah, who, with his playful demeanor and whimsical outfit, diminishes the gravity typically associated with a ruler of the Demon Realm.
When it comes to personality, Dabura exudes a chilling sadism, showcasing a ruthless element in battle while also exhibiting an unexpected level of sophistication. His articulate speech and compliments towards adversaries for their abilities demonstrate a complexity that Gomah lacks. Instead, Gomah's cowardice and naivety render him easily manipulated, sometimes displaying immature disrespect towards others, such as his mockery of Neva.
The character of Dabura, although portrayed as a tyrant, exemplified a certain restraint in his rule. In contrast, Gomah has introduced oppressive laws that involve draining the life force of those unable to provide offerings, showcasing a far more malicious intent in leadership. While Dabura might have been malevolent, he wasn't excessively cruel to his subjects.
Though Gomah shows a hint of compassion—hesitating to harm a childlike Dende due to his innocent demeanor—his heartlessness toward adversaries diminishes his credibility as an effective villain. In contrast, Dabura’s arc evolves significantly, especially after his experiences in Heaven, revealing a desire for genuine affection that adds depth to his character.
Should Dragon Ball DAIMA choose to reinstate Dabura, he could present a formidable challenge for the Z Warriors, in stark contrast to the spineless Gomah. Dabura's character might also avoid subservience to figures like Dr. Arinsu, leading to potentially different outcomes in the storyline. Ultimately, Dabura’s intricate design and compelling traits make him a more fitting candidate for the title of Demon Realm King compared to Gomah.
At present, Dragon Ball DAIMA can be streamed on services such as Hulu, Netflix, and Crunchyroll.