On May 20, 2024, One Piece revealed a partnership with Sphere, the largest display screen in the world, to showcase its episodes. However, fans of Dragon Ball do not appear to be celebrating this significant achievement for the series.
Despite the release of the Super series almost five years ago, Dragon Ball has since fallen out of the mainstream anime scene. A movie adaptation was produced during this time, but it failed to meet the expectations of fans who then took to criticizing Toei Animation, the studio responsible for animating One Piece.
Despite sharing the same animation studio, the fandom of the former series took to the internet and expressed their displeasure with the studio for shifting its focus. While some criticized the studio for neglecting their series, others celebrated the collaboration with the other series.
Please note that the opinions expressed here are solely those of the author.
Reaction of Dragon Ball fans to One Piece collaboration
One Piece revealed a partnership with Sphere in celebration of its 25th anniversary. From June 10-16, 2024, the show will dominate the exterior of this display. However, the specific episodes to be aired have not yet been disclosed.
Located in the eastern region of Las Vegas, Nevada in the United States, Sphere is an entertainment arena. Prior to partnering with Sphere, the anime series had collaborated with numerous international companies including PUMA (a footwear brand), Scholastic Corporation (the largest publisher of children’s books in the world), Super Impulse USA (a top manufacturer of toys), and many others.
Dragon Ball, an anime series that premiered on March 25, 2018, shares the same animation studio as this series. On June 11, 2022, an anime film titled Dragon Ball Super DAIMA was released. However, despite the film’s success, there have been no updates on any potential sequels for the series. This lack of new projects has caused some Dragon Ball fans to criticize Toei Animation for not prioritizing their beloved anime.
Fan Reactions to One Piece x Sphere Collaboration in the Dragon Ball Community
Despite the high expectations from fans, Toei Animation faced intense criticism from many Dragon Ball fans who labeled them as a subpar studio. Additionally, with 2024 being the year of the dragon in the Chinese calendar, fans hoped that Toei would shine a spotlight on the series.
Additionally, a fan went as far as to suggest that the current overseas promotion for One Piece may indicate an attempt to surpass Dragon Ball in popularity, given its larger international fanbase.
“Garbage Studio. And yall said this is the Year of Dragon ball? ?? What a joke.”A fan said.
“Hot Take: I think Toei & Oda know One Piece popularity struggles over seas compared to DB so they do these paid promos (macys parade balloon and this) to try to push it more in the west.”Another fan said.
“Feel like all the love Toei is giving to OP should’ve been directed to Dragonball.”Another one commented.
Similarly, the opposing fanbase argued that the Dragon Ball franchise has been in the spotlight for the last 20-30 years, being one of the earliest anime to be broadcasted. As a result, they urged fans of Dragon Ball to embrace and appreciate the achievements of other anime instead of dwelling on the past.
One viewer went as far as to proclaim One Piece as the ultimate anime in front of a group of passionate Dragon Ball fans. Additionally, another fan expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming broadcast of his beloved series on the biggest screen in the world, eagerly anticipating its release.
“Why are DB fans mad you guys have had their for decades. Stand proud and watch your second anime. You’re still popular regardless.”A fan said.
“One Piece is the Greatest of All Time! Take that DB weebs.” Another fan said.
“Cant wait.”Another one said.
Conclusion
Animation studios remain fair towards all anime series, regardless of their popularity, as Japanese standards prohibit them from showing favoritism. Rather than criticizing animation studios, it is recommended to patiently anticipate the official release of a favorite series’ sequel by watching its prequels or purchasing related merchandise.
Alternatively, it is a great accomplishment for the anime community that an anime would be shown on the world’s largest screen. As such, it would be a remarkable sight for any anime enthusiast.
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