Dragon Ball: Akira Toriyama’s original Saiyan designs revealed after 36 years
Rare concept art showcases the primitive origins of the Saiyan race.
Few extraterrestrial races in anime are as iconic as the Saiyans of Dragon Ball Z, the warrior race that gave us Goku, Vegeta, Raditz, Nappa, and Broly. Now, 36 years later, thanks to the official Dragon Ball website, fans can finally see Akira Toriyama’s original concept art, revealing how Saiyan ancestors looked before their technological advancements.
The primitive Saiyans: A different vision
The Dragon Ball Z anime briefly explored Saiyan history in the episode “Goku’s Ancestors”, depicting their early civilization and their war against the Tuffles on Planet Sadala.
Toriyama’s sketches confirm that early Saiyans resembled cavemen, wearing animal pelts and relying on raw strength rather than advanced weaponry.
While modern Saiyans wield high-tech armor and spacecraft, their original culture was far more primal, only acquiring technology after conquering the Tuffles.
A deeper appreciation for Goku and Vegeta
These revelations add new layers to the heroism of Goku and the redemption arc of Vegeta, considering their race’s violent past. Toriyama’s original vision emphasized the Saiyans’ savage nature, making their evolution into protectors even more compelling.
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