Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s Return to Arena Brawling Receives Mixed Reactions

With the release of “Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero,” fans of the series find themselves revisiting the long-dormant “Budokai Tenkaichi” sub-series. This game emerges as the first direct sequel since the PlayStation 2 era, bringing with it a design and presentation that echo the franchise’s older style.

Described by some as “charming,” “Sparking! Zero” is applauded for its faithful portrayal of classic “Dragon Ball” battles, featuring the fast-paced action reminiscent of the anime. However, several players have voiced concerns about the game’s complexity and balance. Notably, the controls are said to be “unresponsive,” and the difficulty in confronting canonically stronger characters remains formidable.

Reviewers praise the game’s graphical fidelity, noting that characters and environments look remarkably updated yet true to their original forms. Despite this, some animations are critiqued for their stiffness. The original voice cast returns, lending authenticity to the experience, with only a few exceptions causing slight moments of doubt among nostalgic fans.

One standout feature of “Sparking! Zero” is its expansive roster, comprising 180 characters from the “Dragon Ball” universe. The game allows players to explore numerous characters, including a staggering 19 versions of Goku, each with distinct abilities corresponding to different points in the series’ timeline. Some players, however, find the differences between characters lacking balance.

The game introduces a new branching story mode, “Episode Battles,” which includes key moments from “Dragon Ball” history and offers players the option to deviate from the series’ original storyline. An example of this alternative storytelling is the choice to have Goku assist Piccolo instead of following the canon events, which results in new story outcomes.

“Sparking! Zero” incorporates a skill point system that enhances combat strategy. As players inflict damage, they earn skill points, which can be spent on unique abilities, transformations, and counters. Nonetheless, the reliance on precise input combinations has frustrated some players, especially in high-speed segments or battles against challenging bosses like Great Ape Vegeta.

While the game permits customization in battle scenarios through an editor tool, receptiveness to this feature remains tepid. Players have yet to fully utilize the potential to create compelling custom battles that could extend “Sparking! Zero’s” entertainment value.

Online multiplayer has yet to undergo extensive testing, raising questions about server performance and network features. Historically, “Dragon Ball” games have struggled with online capabilities, a concern for hopeful players awaiting a smooth digital experience.

The sentiments surrounding “Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero” are mixed. While it captures the essence of the “Dragon Ball” fight spectacle and offers nostalgia for long-time fans, issues such as difficult battles, unresponsive controls, and outdated menus temper its appeal. Future updates and community engagement with the custom battle system may prove pivotal in shaping the game’s legacy.