You've heard the criticism about Dragon Ball Z: static character growth (with some exceptions like Vegeta), recycled fight sounds, repetitive plots, a very loose interpretation of what "five minutes" means, and beyond. Despite its flaws, however, Dragon Ball Z is undoubtedly the Toonami block's most influential show. But it isn't its best.
While Dragon Ball Z gave kids a reason to rush home after school, Toonami was great because it gave other quality anime shows a chance to shine. It was the only place where you got gunplay in space and slick robot action with a sense of imagination. In 2012, Toonami returned on Adult Swim's Saturday night block. And although some of the shows didn't come back (What happened to you, YuYu Hakusho?), the platform allowed for more adult content and even more possibilities for greatness beyond Cartoon Network.
Before Super Dragon Ball makes its way to US television, let's revisit 15 Toonami Shows That Are Better Than Dragon Ball Z.
Follow Brian Josephs at @Bklyn_Rock.