🗓 AUGUST 12, 1988
◀◀ REWINDING TO
1988
NOW · 2026
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Game Info
Publisher:
—
Developer:
—
Genre:
Action RPG
Players:
1
Release Date:
August 12, 1988 (Japan)
System:
—
About the Game
Stepping back to August 12, 1988, the Nintendo Entertainment System in Japan welcomed a new adventure. This was the arrival of Dragon Ball: Daimaō Fukkatsu, a title that brought the world of Akira Toriyama's iconic manga to players' homes. It marked a significant moment, translating the high-octane action and beloved characters of Dragon Ball into a playable experience on a home console.
Thirty-eight years ago today, this game launched in Japan. For those who followed Goku's journey, it was a chance to step into his shoes, to relive the early days of his quest. The return of the Demon King, Piccolo Daimao, served as the narrative backbone, offering players a familiar yet interactive challenge. It was a time when bringing such a popular series to a console felt like a considerable undertaking, a bridge between the printed page and the glowing screen.
In the landscape of 1988 gaming, console adaptations of popular anime and manga were still finding their footing. Dragon Ball: Daimaō Fukkatsu was part of that evolving wave, offering a glimpse into how these vibrant worlds could be translated into interactive entertainment. It was a game that carried the weight of expectation from a dedicated fanbase, eager to engage with their favorite characters beyond the panels of a comic or the frames of an animation.

Screen Shots



Game Features
- Features characters from the Dragon Ball manga
- Based on the return of Piccolo Daimao
- Navigates through various locations
Nexzy Says!
Dragon Ball: Daimaō Fukkatsu was one of the earlier console adaptations of the popular Dragon Ball series on the NES.
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NEXZY
▲ The 80s set — black plastic, channel buttons, round speaker.
© 1988 Nexzy Magazine
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