Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is a video game that was made available via Steam for the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on October 11, 2024. The game is the first in the series after 15 years! In addition to exciting supporters, it hopes to introduce a fresh batch of gamers to its own style of aerial, planet-shattering battle. Let’s travel to Universe 7 and review the game Dragon Ball Sparking ZERO!
Visuals and Presentation
Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Sparking! Zero is a visual feast for Dragon Ball fans. The character models are highly detailed, blending iconic designs with Shintani’s style from Dragon Ball Super: Broly. The environments are equally impressive, with destructible arenas that react dynamically to the intense battles taking place within them.
The game’s presentation shines with its focus on authenticity. Every move, from ki blasts to ultimate attacks, feels straight out of the anime. Beam clashes, rapid punches, and quick movements are recreated with precision, immersing players in iconic Dragon Ball moments.
Gameplay and Mechanic
At its core, Sparking! Zero retains the fast-paced, 3D combat that made the Budokai Tenkaichi series a fan favorite. However, there are new mechanics that add strategy to each battle. The Skill Count system encourages resource management, allowing players to build and spend points for special abilities. Additionally, features like Short Dash, Revenge Counter, Super Perception, and Vanishing Assaults enhance movement, defense, and surprise tactics during combat.
Character Roster and Content
Sparking! Zero boasts a massive roster of 182 characters, surpassing Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3. Covering the entire Dragon Ball timeline, it includes fighters from the original series, Z, GT, Super, and Dragon Ball Daima. This wide selection ensures fans of any era can find their favorite characters.
The game offers several modes to keep players engaged. Episode Battle lets players relive key moments from the series, with options to change the outcomes of famous fights. Custom Battle allows players to create and share their own scenarios online. For competitive play, online modes feature ranked matches and tournaments to test skills against others.
DLC and Post-Launch Support
Bandai Namco has announced a post-launch content. This includes a season pass adding over 20 characters from Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero and Dragon Ball Daima. While some may criticize locking characters behind DLC, the base roster is already large enough to feel complete.
Pros and Cons
Probably one of its pros is that the game features visuals that perfectly match Dragon Ball. Its refined and expanded combat system adds depth to the fast-paced action. With a massive character roster covering the entire franchise, players can enjoy a wide selection of fighters.
However, some characters are locked behind DLC. This feature might frustrate some of the players. Furthermore, the large roster combined with complex mechanics can feel overwhelming for newcomers.
Dragon Ball Sparking ZERO Game Review
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero marks a triumphant return for the Budokai Tenkaichi series. It modernizes the franchise while keeping its beloved core elements. Fans of Dragon Ball and fighting game lovers should not miss it because of its amazing graphics, well-balanced gameplay, and large cast of characters.
While it may not revolutionize the genre, Sparking! Zero excels at what it sets out to do. The intent is to deliver a genuine and thrilling Dragon Ball experience that portrays every aspect of the anime’s grand combat scenes. This most recent installment of the series has much to offer both die-hard fans and those who are just getting started.
