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Dragon Ball FighterZ

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dragon Ball FighterZ
Item: Dragon Ball FighterZ
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2018

GenresFantasy, Action, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJan 26, 2018

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperArc System Works

Overview

Dragon Ball FighterZ is born from what makes the Dragon Ball series so loved and famous: endless spectacular fights with its all-powerful fighters.

Elsewhere

7.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ's story mode shines with originality and engaging character interactions, especially with new character Android 21, earning praise for its narrative and RPG elements. However, it's marred by drawn-out pacing, repetitive battles, and mediocre dialogue, leading to fatigue and a lack of emotional impact. Critics agree it’s entertaining for fans but ultimately fails to deliver a consistently engaging experience for all players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story mode of Dragon Ball FighterZ has received a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its originality and integration of new characters, especially Android 21, designed by Akira Toriyama. Critics like EGM and TrueGaming highlight the engaging narrative and innovative gameplay elements, suggesting that the story mode is one of the best in the fighting game genre. Additionally, several reviewers, including Gamers' Temple and Vgames, appreciate the fresh narrative set between significant arcs of the Dragon Ball series, which allows for unique character interactions and a sense of immersion in the beloved franchise. The inclusion of RPG elements and branching storylines, as noted by Gamersky and Attack of the Fanboy, adds depth to the gameplay experience, making it enjoyable for both fans and newcomers alike. However, the story mode is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, such as GameCritics and Gamer.no, describe the narrative as drawn-out and repetitive, often feeling tedious due to its length and filler content. Critics like JeuxActu and M3 argue that the overall design lacks depth, with some labeling the plot as clichéd and insufferable. The repetitive nature of battles, particularly against clone characters, is a common complaint, with critics like Digital Trends and InsideGamer.nl noting that this grind detracts from the overall enjoyment of the story. Furthermore, the dialogue has been described as mediocre and lacking emotional resonance, which diminishes the impact of the narrative for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Dragon Ball FighterZ's story mode offers an original narrative and engaging character interactions, it suffers from pacing issues and repetitiveness that detract from the experience. Critics like GameSpot and Metro GameCentral highlight the significant length of the story mode, which can lead to a sense of fatigue. Ultimately, while the game succeeds in providing a comprehensive and entertaining story for fans of the franchise, it falls short in delivering a consistently engaging narrative that resonates with all players, as noted by several reviewers across various platforms.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ has received rave reviews for its fast-paced, accessible gameplay and strategic 3-on-3 tag mechanics, appealing to both casual gamers and veterans alike. Critics praise its effective tutorials but caution that reliance on auto-combos may limit depth for hardcore fans. Overall, it strikes a strong balance between accessibility and engagement, making it a must-play for all skill levels in the fighting game genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Dragon Ball FighterZ has garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting its accessibility and depth. Reviewers like EGM and GameStar noted that the game features a fast-paced, fluid combat system that is enjoyable for both casual and competitive players. The 3-on-3 tag team mechanics, as emphasized by critics such as GameCritics and Attack of the Fanboy, allow for strategic gameplay that encourages players to think critically about character combinations and team dynamics. The tutorial elements, particularly in the story mode, are also praised for effectively teaching players the game's mechanics, making it approachable for newcomers while still offering enough complexity to engage veterans (as noted by CGMagazine and InsideGamer.nl). Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks, particularly regarding the game's reliance on auto-combos. GameCritics expressed concern that the prevalence of these automated combos might lead to a rote and less engaging experience for lower-skilled players. Additionally, GamesRadar+ mentioned that the game’s lower skill ceiling could alienate some hardcore fighting game fans who prefer a more technical challenge. Critics like FANDOM and Trusted Reviews acknowledged that while the game is fun and accessible, it may lack the depth and technicality found in other fighting games, which could deter players looking for a more intricate gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many agreeing that Dragon Ball FighterZ successfully strikes a balance between accessibility and depth. Critics such as M3 and Vandal emphasized that the game is designed to cater to a wide audience, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the experience. The dynamic and engaging nature of the gameplay, coupled with a diverse roster of characters and strategic team mechanics, has made Dragon Ball FighterZ a standout title in the fighting game genre. The combination of easy-to-learn controls and rewarding gameplay keeps players invested, making it a highly recommended title for both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ is hailed as a visual masterpiece, with stunning cel-shaded graphics that mirror the original anime. Critics rave about its vibrant colors, detailed animations, and fluid presentation, making players feel immersed in the Dragon Ball universe. While there are minor critiques about backgrounds, especially on the Nintendo Switch, the game's overall visual fidelity sets a new standard for fighting games, solidifying its status as one of the best-looking entries in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Dragon Ball FighterZ is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game as a visual masterpiece. Reviewers like Slant Magazine and Forbes highlight the stunning cel-shaded animation that closely resembles the original anime, with Slant Magazine noting that it "bursts off the screen with stunning clarity." Critics from various platforms, including NintendoWorldReport and GameSpot, emphasize the game's vibrant colors and dynamic effects that capture the essence of the Dragon Ball universe. The attention to detail in character models and animations is frequently mentioned, with GamePro Germany and TrueGaming praising the expressive animations that enhance the overall combat experience. Many reviewers, such as XGN and GamingTrend, also commend the game's ability to maintain a fluid and engaging visual presentation, making it feel like players are part of an animated episode. While the majority of reviews are laudatory, a few critics have pointed out some minor drawbacks. For instance, NintendoWorldReport notes that the backgrounds on the Nintendo Switch may not be as grand as those on other platforms, and Gameplanet mentions some pixelation in background characters during cutscenes. Atomix also raises concerns about the recycling of environments in the story mode, which detracts from the overall visual quality. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded comments on the less impressive backgrounds, suggesting that they help keep the focus on the action but still fall short of the high standards set by the character models and animations. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ sets a new standard for visual fidelity in fighting games, with a majority declaring it a masterpiece in graphics and visual design. The game's ability to replicate the anime's aesthetic while delivering stunning animations and effects has left a lasting impression, as noted by critics like PlayStation Universe and New York Daily News, who assert that the visuals are almost indistinguishable from the series itself. Despite some minor criticisms regarding background details, the overwhelming praise for the game's visual presentation solidifies its status as one of the best-looking titles in the Dragon Ball franchise and a benchmark for future games in the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ shines with immersive sound design and authentic voice acting, earning praise for its energetic rock-metal soundtrack. Critics appreciate the choice between English and Japanese voices, enhancing player connection. However, many voices lament the soundtrack's inconsistency and lack of memorable tracks, failing to meet the high standards of previous works and the anime itself. The need for DLC to access additional music further dampens the experience, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Dragon Ball FighterZ have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's immersive audio experience. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Italy and GameSpot, praised the inclusion of original Japanese voice actors, which adds authenticity and depth to the characters. The energetic rock-metal soundtrack has been noted for enhancing the combat experience, with critics like Vandal and Xbox Achievements pointing out the effective use of iconic sound effects and battle cries that resonate with fans of the franchise. Additionally, the option to choose between English and Japanese voice acting, as mentioned by GamingTrend and PlaySense, further enriches the overall experience, allowing players to connect more deeply with the game. However, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. 3DJuegos and JeuxActu criticized the soundtrack for lacking the impact and variety found in previous works by Kenji Yamamoto, suggesting that while some tracks are decent, they do not reach the heights expected from a title in the genre. Gameblog.fr echoed this sentiment, highlighting the absence of original themes as a downside and labeling the soundtrack as inconsistent in quality. Furthermore, some reviews, such as those from Ragequit.gr and Nintenderos, mentioned that the soundtrack does not match the quality of the anime's music, with additional music requiring purchase as DLC, which detracts from the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Dragon Ball FighterZ. While many appreciate the immersive sound effects, authentic voice acting, and energetic soundtrack that enhance gameplay, there are significant criticisms regarding the soundtrack's lack of memorable tracks and the need for additional purchases to access the full range of music. Critics like DarkStation and Hobby Consolas have highlighted the strengths of the character themes and sound effects, but the overall reception indicates that while the audio experience is enjoyable, it falls short of the high expectations set by the beloved source material.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ boasts overwhelmingly positive voice acting, praised for its blend of original Japanese and English options that enhance character interactions and immersion. Critics lauded the authenticity and depth brought by original anime voice actors, though minor criticisms include occasional over-exaggeration and subtitle issues. Overall, the voice performances are a standout feature, appealing to both fans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The overall sentiment regarding the voice acting in Dragon Ball FighterZ is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers, such as 3DJuegos and Game Informer, praised the execution of the voice acting, highlighting the inclusion of original Japanese voices alongside English options, which enhances character interactions during battles. Critics like GameSpot and Vandal emphasized the flexibility provided to players through the choice of voiceovers, noting that both Japanese and English performances are well-executed, contributing to a more immersive experience. The authenticity brought by the original voice actors from the anime, as noted by GamingTrend and Everyeye.it, adds depth to the characters and their interactions, making the game feel like a true extension of the beloved series. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out minor shortcomings in the voice acting. For instance, PLAY! Zine mentioned moments of over-exaggeration that could detract from the experience, while TheSixthAxis noted a lack of polish in the subtitles matching the voices. Additionally, Ragequit.gr described the voice acting as merely functional, suggesting that while it meets expectations, it does not exceed them. These criticisms, however, appear to be in the minority compared to the general praise for the quality of the performances. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ features high-quality voice acting that significantly enhances the gaming experience. Reviewers such as Softpedia and The Digital Fix celebrated the engaging performances that mix humor and authenticity, while others like Gameblog.fr and New Game Network highlighted the faithful representation of characters from the anime. Overall, the voice acting is regarded as a standout feature of the game, successfully catering to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ shines with smooth performance and frame rates on Switch and PS4, earning praise for offline play. However, it suffers serious online connectivity issues across all platforms, including clunky lobby systems and lag, frustrating players. Critics agree that while the game has a solid foundation, online play desperately needs improvement to meet expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Dragon Ball FighterZ has garnered a range of opinions across various platforms, with some notable strengths highlighted by critics. On the Nintendo Switch, several reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Cubed3, praised the game for its smooth performance and stable frame rates, even during intense battles. The PS4 version has also received commendations for its overall technical execution, with critics like Game Informer and Push Square noting that the online matchmaking and gameplay run smoothly, contributing to a positive multiplayer experience. Meanwhile, the Xbox One version has been recognized for its satisfactory performance, with critics such as Generación Xbox and Game Revolution acknowledging that matches run smoothly, despite some minor issues. However, the reviews also reveal significant concerns regarding online connectivity and lobby systems across all platforms. On the Xbox One, critics like Game Revolution and MondoXbox pointed out difficulties with the online lobby system, which complicates connecting with friends, alongside issues with lag and disconnections as noted by IGN. The PS4 version has faced similar criticisms, with multiple reviewers, including GRYOnline.pl and New Game Network, highlighting server stability issues and long matchmaking times that detract from the experience. The PC version, while praised for its graphics and overall performance by GameStar, also suffers from network instability and frequent disconnections, as reported by AusGamers and PC Gamer. On the Switch, Trusted Reviews noted problems with framerate drops and inconsistent netcode during online play. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Dragon Ball FighterZ performs well technically across platforms, particularly in offline modes, the online experience is marred by connectivity issues and a clunky lobby system. Critics like Easy Allies and DarkStation have pointed out that while the gameplay is engaging, the online components require improvements to enhance the overall experience. The mixed sentiments indicate that while the game has a solid foundation, particularly on the Switch and PS4, the online functionalities need further refinement to fully meet player expectations across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ boasts impressive replay value with diverse modes, strategic gameplay, and unlockable content that keep players engaged. Critics praise its depth for competitive play but note drawbacks like a repetitive story mode and frustrating online matchmaking. Overall, it’s a must-have for fighting game fans and Dragon Ball enthusiasts, as its strengths largely overshadow its weaknesses.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Dragon Ball FighterZ highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its longevity and appeal. Many reviewers, such as Gameblog.fr and Generación Xbox, commend the game for its diverse range of modes, including story, arcade, and competitive multiplayer options, which provide ample content for players to engage with. The depth of character mechanics and strategic gameplay is frequently noted, with critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and GameCrate emphasizing the game's potential for mastery and improvement, particularly in the competitive scene. The inclusion of unlockable content and customization options, as mentioned by EGM and Everyeye.it, further enhances the replay value, encouraging players to return for additional rewards and challenges. Despite these strengths, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may affect the game's replayability. GameSpot and Gamer.no highlight the repetitive nature of the story mode, which could deter players from revisiting it frequently. Additionally, issues with online matchmaking are a common concern, as noted by GameCritics and Video Chums, where long wait times can frustrate players looking for a quick competitive match. Critics like Digitally Downloaded also argue that the lack of personal connection to the characters may hinder the experience for those who are not already fans of the Dragon Ball franchise, potentially limiting the game's appeal to a broader audience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Dragon Ball FighterZ offers substantial replay value, particularly for those who appreciate its competitive aspects and varied gameplay modes. While some aspects, such as the story mode's repetitiveness and online matchmaking issues, present challenges, the game's robust content and depth of mechanics provide a strong foundation for engagement. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and The Digital Fix encapsulate this sentiment by affirming that the game is a must-have for both fighting game enthusiasts and Dragon Ball fans, indicating that its strengths largely outweigh its weaknesses in terms of replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Dragon Ball FighterZ is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its accessibility, stunning visuals, and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Digital Trends highlight the game's significant improvements over previous titles, emphasizing its solid mechanics and fan service. The art style has been a standout feature, with IGN Italia describing it as one of the best-looking cel-shaded games. Critics such as FANDOM and Game Informer commend the game for successfully blending accessibility with depth, catering to both casual players and hardcore fans. The game is also noted for its engaging combat, with Cubed3 and AusGamers affirming that it is a must-play for fighting game enthusiasts and Dragon Ball fans alike. Despite the many accolades, Dragon Ball FighterZ is not without its flaws. Several critics, including New York Daily News and New Game Network, pointed out shortcomings in the story mode, describing it as repetitive and lacking depth. Issues with online stability and server performance were also mentioned by reviewers like Vgames and DualShockers, which detracted from the overall experience. Some critics, such as JeuxActu and Xbox Achievements, noted that while the game excels in many areas, the single-player content could benefit from improvement. These negative aspects, while significant, do not overshadow the game's strengths. The consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ is a standout title in the fighting game genre, successfully appealing to a wide audience. Critics like Critical Hit and Eurogamer Italy label it as the best Dragon Ball fighting game to date, praising its combination of engaging gameplay and impressive visuals. The game is characterized as a love letter to the franchise, with many reviewers recommending it as essential for both fans and newcomers to the genre. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Dragon Ball FighterZ is a well-crafted and enjoyable fighting game, making it a worthwhile addition to any gaming library.

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ earns high praise for its stunning visuals, accessible yet deep gameplay, and strong mechanics, making it a must-play for fans and fighting game enthusiasts. However, criticisms regarding a repetitive story mode and online stability issues exist. Despite these flaws, it’s heralded as the best Dragon Ball fighting game to date, delivering an engaging experience that appeals to a broad audience.

MONSTER

Reviews

202 reviews found

Gamers' Temple

Nintendo Switch

Dec 17, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ exceeds expectations, delivering a fantastic experience for fans and newcomers alike, with impressive visuals, engaging gameplay, and a solid story mode.

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Gamers' Temple

PlayStation 4

Feb 20, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ exceeds expectations, delivering a fantastic experience for fans and newcomers alike, with high-quality visuals and engaging gameplay.

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Cheat Code Central

Xbox One

Jan 23, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a highly anticipated game that lives up to the hype. It offers a satisfying gameplay experience with its teaching tools, enjoyable story mode, and visually stunning graphics. It is recommended for both Dragon Ball fans and fighting game enthusiasts.

GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Feb 5, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a near-perfect fighting game that caters to both casual and veteran players, with stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and enough content to satisfy any Dragon Ball fan.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 4

Jan 23, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a fantastic experience that a wide audience of players are sure to enjoy, with simple gameplay and deep mechanics.

Everyeye.it

PlayStation 4

Jan 22, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a well-crafted fighting game that respects the source material, suitable for all types of players, despite some online stability concerns.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Jan 22, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is an outstanding game that effortlessly captures the essence of the popular anime. With excellent visuals, engaging gameplay, and a captivating story mode, it is a strong contender for fighting game of the year.

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MondoXbox

Xbox One

Jan 26, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is described as a passionate tribute to the franchise, combining solid gameplay, impressive visuals, and a compelling story, making it one of the best Dragon Ball games in recent years.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Jan 28, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ is hailed as the best Dragon Ball game ever, successfully capturing the essence of the series while being accessible yet challenging for fighting game fans.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 4

Jan 26, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dragon Ball FighterZ successfully blends accessibility with depth, providing an engaging fighting experience that appeals to both casual players and fans of the franchise.