Few fighting games manage to capture the essence of their source material as effectively as Dragon Ball FighterZ. This title, developed by Arc System Works (known for Guilty Gear and BlazBlue) and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, isn’t just a game – it’s an anime come to life.
Dragon Ball FighterZ’s plot is fairly straightforward, serving primarily as a vehicle to bring together a vast roster of beloved Dragon Ball characters for explosive battles. The story mode revolves around the appearance of Android 21, a mysterious android who possesses insatiable hunger and a penchant for absorbing other fighters’ energy. This sets off a chain reaction across the Dragon Ball universe, drawing heroes like Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Piccolo, and Frieza into conflict. While the narrative might not win any awards for originality, it effectively acts as a backdrop for showcasing each character’s unique abilities and personalities through cinematic cutscenes brimming with over-the-top action and dramatic flair.
The core gameplay experience in Dragon Ball FighterZ is characterized by its accessibility and frenetic pace. Developed using the Unreal Engine 4, FighterZ boasts stunning visuals that seamlessly blend 3D models with hand-drawn 2D animation, creating a truly mesmerizing visual spectacle. The combat system itself strikes a delightful balance between depth and approachability.
Newcomers can easily grasp the fundamental mechanics: light attacks, heavy attacks, special moves, and Ki blasts are all executed using simple button combinations. However, beneath this seemingly straightforward surface lies a surprising level of complexity. Each character possesses a unique set of special moves, super moves, and assists that allow for countless strategic possibilities. Mastering combos, timing your blocks perfectly, and strategically utilizing assists becomes crucial to achieving victory.
The game’s 3v3 team-based battles add another layer of depth and tactical nuance. Selecting the right team composition based on individual character strengths and weaknesses can significantly impact your chances of success. Additionally, understanding how to effectively utilize each character’s unique assist capabilities is essential for creating devastating combo chains and turning the tide of battle.
Dragon Ball FighterZ’s roster boasts an impressive lineup of over 40 characters spanning multiple Dragon Ball sagas. From iconic heroes like Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan to formidable villains like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu, each character faithfully embodies their anime counterpart in both appearance and fighting style.
Character | Saga/Transformation | Fighting Style |
---|---|---|
Goku | Super Saiyan Blue | Balanced fighter with powerful Ki blasts and close-range attacks |
Vegeta | Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan | Aggressive fighter specializing in rushing attacks and counterattacks |
Gohan | Mystic | Versatile fighter with a mix of ranged and melee abilities |
| Frieza | Final Form | Zoning fighter relying on projectile attacks and strategic movement | | Cell | Perfect Form | Powerful grappler capable of overwhelming opponents with brutal throws and strikes | | Android 18 | Base Form | Quick and agile fighter utilizing kicks and energy-based attacks |
Beyond the base roster, FighterZ features a plethora of DLC characters introducing fan-favorites from across the Dragon Ball franchise. These additions not only expand the gameplay possibilities but also cater to dedicated fans who crave their favorite fighters on the virtual battlefield.
Is Dragon Ball FighterZ The Ultimate Anime Fighting Game Experience?
While Dragon Ball FighterZ’s claim to “ultimate” status is subjective and depends on individual preferences, there’s no denying its exceptional quality as an anime fighting game. Its accessibility combined with surprising depth, coupled with stunning visuals and a sprawling roster of beloved characters, makes it a compelling choice for both seasoned veterans and newcomers to the genre. Whether you’re a die-hard Dragon Ball fan or simply seeking a thrilling and visually captivating fighting experience, Dragon Ball FighterZ is undoubtedly worth checking out.