"Neko Majin Z" is a standalone sequel to "Dragon Ball Z" crafted entirely by Akira Toriyama without any studio or artist collaboration. This manga series not only introduces fresh characters but also deepens the "Dragon Ball" universe, featuring Frieza's offspring and an additional Super Saiyan. Positioned chronologically between the conclusion of "Dragon Ball Z" and the beginning of "Dragon Ball GT," "Neko Majin Z" could be considered canon, despite its clear self-parody nature.
One of the lesser-known sequels to Dragon Ball Z, created solely by Akira Toriyama, is Neko Majin Z, a manga series that stands out for its eccentricity. While debates rage among fans over whether Dragon Ball GT or Dragon Ball Super is the true successor to DBZ, they often overlook Toriyama's own unique addition to the franchise. Unlike GT and Super, where Toriyama collaborated with studios and artists like Toyotarou, Neko Majin Z remains a pure reflection of Toriyama's quirky creativity.
Neko Majin Z is an eight-chapter manga featuring the Neko Majin, a race of magical cats deeply invested in martial arts and games. The central character, Neko Majin Z, shares traits with Goku and embarks on playful adventures with him. Despite its humorous and non-canon nature, Neko Majin Z introduced elements like Frieza's son, Kuriza, and a new Super Saiyan named Onio, albeit in a self-parodying manner that diverges from Dragon Ball's serious tone.
Interestingly, Neko Majin Z fits neatly into the Dragon Ball timeline. Super continues directly after the Majin Buu Saga, leading into the 'End of Z' period, which precedes GT by five years. This temporal gap provides a perfect setting for Neko Majin Z's antics, aligning it harmoniously with the broader series despite its non-canonical status.
Beyond its manga roots, Neko Majin Z has made sporadic appearances in Dragon Ball video games like Dragon Ball Heroes and Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors 2, further embedding itself in the franchise's extended universe. While it may not be considered canon and is characterized by its irreverent humor, Neko Majin Z still manages to leave a playful mark on Dragon Ball's legacy.
In conclusion, while Dragon Ball fans may debate the merits of GT versus Super, Neko Majin Z offers a distinct and whimsical alternative, showcasing Toriyama's imaginative prowess and contributing its own peculiar charm to the Dragon Ball universe.