Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is the new Dragon Ball Z Budokai game fans have been anticipating after the success of the first three iterations. While many beloved features remain, does it live up to its predecessors?
Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is a fighting game that allows players to seamlessly fly around the map and move at high speeds. In addition to flying, the game introduces a movement feature called the Ki Dash. This technique is activated by charging your ki, which can also be used for specific moves, such as the iconic Kamehameha.
Players have a point meter that charges over time, enabling the use of abilities specific to their chosen character. These abilities might include dodging an attack or performing a Solar Flare. Players can adopt a defensive strategy or dive into relentless close-quarters combat. Matches are typically fast-paced, but for those who prefer a longer experience, the game offers team battles where players can select up to five characters.
MCHS junior Tristan Crabtree, a fan, shared his thoughts: “Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is a fun game, and the other modes are also really enjoyable. I could play for days.”
One issue with the game is its unrestricted character selection, which can lead to power imbalances. For example, a match between Goku and Golden Frieza could feel unfair due to their differing strength levels. To address this, the game features a point system: players start with 20 points to draft their team, with stronger characters costing more points. This system ensures more balanced matchups.
The story mode includes various “what if” scenarios, allowing players to make significant choices that alter iconic events. For instance, players can choose to fight Raditz without Piccolo’s help, completely changing the Saiyan arc and Goku’s storyline. These scenarios feature excellent cutscenes, showcasing the animators’ hard work and dedication to the game.
Additionally, players can create their own Dragon Ball anime episodes by selecting music, locations, characters, and reasons for their battles. There are seven storylines to explore, featuring characters such as Vegeta, Jiren, Piccolo, Goku Black, Future Trunks, Frieza, and Gohan. Each storyline takes about two hours to complete, with additional time required for 100% completion.
As players progress through the storylines, they earn Zeni, the in-game currency. Zeni can be spent in the shop on new characters for private battles against friends and other useful items. Players can also customize their characters’ outfits, such as dressing Goku in his Saiyan armor from the Cell arc.
Overall, Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is an excellent addition to the franchise. With its stunning graphics, engaging gameplay, and pick-up-and-play style, it appeals to both newcomers and returning fans. I would rate Dragon Ball Sparking Zero an 8/10.
