Akira Toriyama’s influence on the animanga world runs deep, touching the hearts of millions globally, from die-hard fans to famous faces and fellow creators.
Over the years, many mangaka have openly credited Toriyama, the genius behind Dragon Ball, for shaping their own works.
Eiichiro Oda, creator of the beloved One Piece, and Masashi Kishimoto, the mastermind behind Naruto, were among those who mourned Toriyama’s passing on March 1st. They, like countless others, expressed their gratitude for his guidance and inspiration.
Eiichiro Oda once said, “I owe so much to Toriyama-sensei. His work deeply influenced me, and I strive to infuse his creativity and storytelling magic into my own creations.”
Masashi Kishimoto also shared his admiration, saying, “Toriyama-sensei’s characters and storytelling style have always been a huge inspiration for me. His legacy will keep inspiring manga creators for generations to come.”
These heartfelt words reflect the immense impact Toriyama had on the manga world, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire creators for years to come.
Let’s see some of the most notable mangaka who owe a debt of gratitude to Toriyama.
Mangaka Influenced by Dragon Ball Creator Akira Toriyama
1. Eiichiro Oda (One Piece)
Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece is a masterpiece in its own right, but behind the swashbuckling adventures lies a deep admiration for Toriyama’s Dragon Ball.
Oda’s heartfelt tribute to Toriyama upon his passing revealed the close bond they shared and the profound influence Toriyama had on his own creative journey. It’s touching to see how one artist’s work can inspire and shape another’s vision.
2. Masashi Kishimoto (Naruto):
Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto is a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with its ninja-filled world and compelling characters. Yet, beneath the surface, lies a deep appreciation for Toriyama’s storytelling prowess.
Kishimoto’s tribute to Toriyama wasn’t just a nod to a fellow creator but a heartfelt acknowledgment of the impact Toriyama’s work had on his own artistic path.
3. Tite Kubo (Bleach):
Tite Kubo’s Bleach is a testament to the enduring legacy of Toriyama’s influence. From the soul-reaping action to the intricate world-building, traces of Toriyama’s genius can be found throughout Kubo’s work.
Kubo’s tribute to Toriyama upon his passing highlighted the profound impact Dragon Ball had on his artistic evolution, reminding us of the timeless nature of Toriyama’s creations.
4. Hiro Mashima (Fairy Tail):
For Hiro Mashima, the creator of Fairy Tail, Toriyama’s influence was transformative. Mashima’s vibrant characters and epic battles bear the unmistakable mark of Toriyama’s style.
Mashima’s tribute served as a poignant reminder of the power of inspiration and the ripple effect one artist’s work can have on others.
5. Yusuke Nomura (Blue Lock):
Yusuke Nomura’s Blue Lock is a testament to the enduring influence of Toriyama’s work. Nomura’s heartfelt tribute to Toriyama upon his passing highlighted the impact Dragon Ball had on his formative years as a mangaka.
It’s a beautiful reminder of how childhood dreams can blossom into creative endeavors, all thanks to the inspiration of a master like Toriyama.
6. Tatsuya Endo (Spy X Family):
Tatsuya Endo’s Spy X Family is another example of Toriyama’s lasting legacy. Endo’s tribute to Toriyama upon his passing showcased the profound impact Toriyama’s creations had on his own artistic journey.
It’s a touching reminder of the interconnectedness of the animanga community and the influence one artist can have on another.
7. Atsushi Suzumi (Venus Versus Virus):
Atsushi Suzumi’s Venus Versus Virus is a testament to the enduring influence of Toriyama’s work.
Suzumi’s tribute highlighted the impact Dragon Ball had on her journey as a mangaka, serving as a reminder of the power of passion and perseverance in the face of adversity.
8. Gege Akutami (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Gege Akutami isn’t alone in acknowledging Akira Toriyama’s impact. Yusuke Murata, too, has openly expressed his admiration for the Dragon Ball creator, showcasing his respect through special cover redraws and public tributes.
Despite the influence, Jujutsu Kaisen and Dragon Ball diverge significantly. While both are shonen with thrilling battles, Jujutsu Kaisen delves deeper into dark fantasy, a departure from Dragon Ball’s lighthearted adventures.
9. Yusuke Murata (One Punch-Man)
Yusuke Murata’s connection to Toriyama runs deep. His public admiration for Toriyama is evident, with Dragon Ball serving as a primary inspiration for Murata’s journey into manga creation.
Artistically, Murata’s style mirrors Toriyama’s, evident in works like One-Punch Man. Both artists employ dynamic compositions, detailed action sequences, and exaggerated features for comedic effect, showcasing a clear influence.
Murata’s talents even led to him redrawing One-Punch Man in a style so reminiscent of Toriyama’s that fans mistook it for the original creator’s work. Additionally, Murata has paid homage to Toriyama through special Dragon Ball art pieces and collaborations.
Despite forging his own artistic path, Akira Toriyama’s influence continues to shape Murata’s work, serving as a guiding force in his creative journey.
10. Yoshihiro Togashi (Hunter X Hunter)
Yoshihiro Togashi, the brilliant mind behind Yu Yu Hakusho and Hunter x Hunter, undeniably draws inspiration from Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of Dragon Ball.
Togashi himself acknowledges Toriyama’s impact. Both Dragon Ball and Yu Yu Hakusho, Togashi’s earlier creations, start with a light-hearted tone before delving into more complex narratives with higher stakes.
Additionally, they both feature martial arts tournaments, a popular shonen trope pioneered by Dragon Ball.
Parallels can be drawn between protagonists. Goku from Dragon Ball and Gon Freecss from Hunter x Hunter share a childlike innocence and a passion for adventure.
However, Togashi doesn’t merely replicate Toriyama’s style. While inspired by him, his works incorporate darker themes and adopt a more strategic approach to combat, diverging from the action-focused battles of Dragon Ball.
Akira Toriyama’s legacy continues to shape the animanga world long after his passing.
His influence can be seen in the works of countless creators, from the sweeping epics of One Piece and Naruto to the fantastical worlds of Bleach and Fairy Tail. As we reflect on his impact, let us celebrate the enduring legacy of a true visionary whose creativity knows no bounds.