Introduction

Dragon Ball Sparking Zero marks the return of the beloved Budokai Tenkaichi series after a long hiatus. This new installment brings fresh mechanics, a revamped story mode, and exciting features, making it more than just a nostalgic trip for fans of Goku and Vegeta. Let’s dive into what makes this game special.

About the Game

Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is a 3D arena fighting game, the fourth installment in the Budokai Tenkaichi series. Unlike traditional 2D fighters like Mortal Kombat, the game features fully 3D arenas, allowing players to move freely in all directions. This mechanic adds dynamism to battles but can sometimes make attacks feel less precise due to aerial combat.

Players build up a KI Gauge to perform special moves like Power Guard to reduce incoming damage or unleash unique Blast 2 abilities. Each character has distinctive Blast 2 moves, enabling techniques such as energy blasts or Kaioken power-ups. Additionally, there’s a Blast Stock meter for supportive Blast 1 abilities, like healing or immobilizing opponents.

Entering Max Power Mode grants enhanced speed, strength, and exclusive Ultimate Blast moves, delivering some of the game’s most dramatic and visually stunning attacks, like planet-destroying finishers.

Gameplay

Sparking Zero retains the core mechanics of previous Budokai Tenkaichi games while introducing new features for a faster and more dynamic combat experience:

• Skill Count: A resource that increases as you perform moves, used to activate special abilities.
• Short Dash: Allows quick evasive moves and charged attacks, including explosive KI Blasts.
• Revenge Counter: Enables counter-attacks while defending, inspired by iconic anime moments.
• Super Perception: A counter that works against various attack types, including energy blasts.
• Vanishing Assault: Instantly close in on opponents to land precise strikes.

The visually stunning battles feature destructible environments and flashy energy effects, such as the iconic Kaioken. Ultimate moves, like planet-destroying finishers, offer some of the most awe-inspiring moments.

Content

The game features an impressive roster of 182 characters, including alternate versions, and 12 arenas inspired by the Dragon Ball universe. Players can choose between two control styles: Standard, recommended for newcomers, and Classic, which emulates the controls of earlier games.

Game Modes

• Episode Battle: Play through iconic battles from Dragon Ball Z and Super with eight playable characters. Cinematic cutscenes and first-person perspectives add to the immersive experience.
• Custom Battle: Recreate anime battles with customizable stats and upload them online for others to play.
• Battle Mode: Offline and online multiplayer battles with split-screen support for local play.
• Ranked Match: Competitive online battles with leaderboards and balanced gameplay conditions.
• Tournament Mode: Create or join tournaments, both offline and online, against players worldwide.

Final Rating

Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is a fantastic return to form for the Budokai Tenkaichi series, offering a mix of nostalgia and innovation. Despite minor drawbacks like imprecise aerial combat, the game delivers exhilarating battles, diverse characters, and plenty of modes to keep players engaged.

Rating: 8/10