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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

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

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

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ's story mode gets mixed reviews: praised for originality and humor, especially with new character Android 21, but slammed for being dull, repetitive, and shallow. Critics see it as a glorified tutorial rather than a compelling narrative, with many calling it tedious and lacking depth. While it appeals to hardcore fans, the consensus is that it fails to deliver a captivating single-player experience.

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 garnered some praise from critics, particularly for its originality and the introduction of new characters like Android 21. Critics such as Easy Allies and Hardcore Gamer highlight the engaging character interactions and humor that enrich the narrative experience. The story is structured in a way that allows players to explore different arcs, which is appreciated by reviewers like Attack of the Fanboy and Gamersky, who note the branching narrative and RPG elements that enhance gameplay. Additionally, some critics, like Game Informer and The Digital Fix, commend the story for being a good introduction to the Dragon Ball universe, especially for newcomers, while maintaining a connection to the source material. However, the negatives surrounding the story mode are notably pronounced in the majority of reviews. Many critics, including 3DJuegos and Gamer.no, describe the narrative as dull, repetitive, and lacking depth. The story is often seen as a glorified tutorial rather than a compelling standalone experience, with critiques pointing to its simplistic plot involving clones and resurrected villains. Critics like GameCritics and Forbes emphasize that the lengthy nature of the campaign can feel tedious, with battles that lack challenge until the later stages. The consensus among several reviewers is that while the game may appeal to hardcore fans with its fanservice elements, it ultimately falls short in delivering a captivating story. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a significant number expressing disappointment in the story mode's execution. While some reviewers, like Vandal and MondoXbox, appreciate the effort to create an original narrative, many others, including JeuxActu and GamePro Germany, criticize it for being basic and lacking depth. The repetitive nature of the gameplay and the drawn-out narrative detract from the overall experience, leading to a sentiment that, despite its potential and some engaging moments, the story mode of Dragon Ball FighterZ does not fully meet the expectations of players looking for a rich and immersive single-player experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ is praised for its engaging, accessible gameplay that balances simplicity and depth, appealing to both casual players and veterans. The fast-paced 3-on-3 battles and intuitive controls make it easy to enjoy, though some critics warn of auto-combos leading to rote play and a flat story mode difficulty. Despite minor drawbacks, it successfully attracts a diverse audience, making it a standout 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 overall sentiment regarding the gameplay of Dragon Ball FighterZ is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging and accessible mechanics. Reviewers such as GamePro Germany and Push Square highlight the game's ability to cater to both casual players and veterans, noting that it offers a balance of simplicity and depth. The 3-on-3 tag-team battles are frequently described as fast-paced and thrilling, with critics like IGN and Digital Trends emphasizing the fun and strategic nature of the combat system. Additionally, the game features intuitive controls and a comprehensive tutorial mode, making it easy for newcomers to pick up and play, as noted by Forbes and InsideGamer.nl. The fluidity of the gameplay, along with the diverse roster of characters, enhances the overall experience, allowing players to engage in dynamic and exciting matches. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, several critics pointed out some drawbacks in the gameplay. Critics such as GameCritics and GamesRadar+ expressed concerns about the prevalence of auto-combos, which can lead to a sense of rote play at lower skill levels. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned that the difficulty curve in the story mode is relatively flat, allowing for brute force victories rather than requiring skillful play, as noted by Vooks. Lag issues and the effectiveness of low-skill tactics were also highlighted by IGN, indicating that while the game is accessible, it may not fully satisfy hardcore fighting game enthusiasts looking for a more challenging experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ successfully combines accessibility with depth, making it a standout title in the fighting game genre. The majority of reviewers agree that the gameplay is enjoyable and engaging, suitable for players of all skill levels. Critics like TrueGaming and Game Informer emphasize the rewarding nature of the combat system, which allows for both casual enjoyment and competitive strategies. While some concerns about simplicity and repetitive tactics exist, they do not overshadow the game's strengths. The positive reception of Dragon Ball FighterZ reflects its ability to attract a wide audience, from newcomers eager to explore the world of fighting games to veterans seeking to master its intricate mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ is hailed as a visual masterpiece, with its stunning cel-shaded art and fluid 60 FPS gameplay impressing critics across platforms. While some note overwhelming visual effects and minor graphical issues on the Switch, the overall consensus is that its vibrant colors and detailed animations set a new standard for fighting games, surpassing expectations and captivating fans and newcomers alike.

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 graphics and visual design of Dragon Ball FighterZ have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the game for its stunning cel-shaded art style, which closely mimics the original anime, creating a vibrant and immersive experience for players. Critics like Worth Playing and Shacknews noted the game's ability to translate the anime's aesthetic into a visually impressive fighting game, with expressive character models and minimal clipping moments. The game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second, even on the Nintendo Switch, as highlighted by NintendoWorldReport and Cubed3, contributing to a fluid gameplay experience. The attention to detail, including the dynamic animations and colorful effects, has been lauded by multiple sources, such as GameSpot and The Digital Fix, who emphasized how the visuals enhance the overall fighting experience. However, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual presentation. New Game Network mentioned that the overwhelming visual effects during fast-paced battles could make it difficult for players to follow the action, which could detract from the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, while the Nintendo Switch version maintains a solid frame rate, some reviewers like Gameblog.fr noted minor aliasing and lower resolution compared to other platforms, which could impact the visual fidelity. Despite these concerns, the majority of critics seemed to agree that the graphical achievements outweigh these minor issues. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ represents a pinnacle in visual design for fighting games, with many describing it as a masterpiece. The game's ability to faithfully recreate the look and feel of the Dragon Ball anime has set a new standard, as noted by Slant Magazine and Game Informer. The combination of vibrant colors, detailed animations, and a seamless blend of 3D and 2D elements has left a lasting impression on both fans of the series and newcomers alike. With such a strong reception, it's clear that Dragon Ball FighterZ has not only met but exceeded expectations in its graphical presentation, solidifying its place as one of the best-looking fighting games available.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ impresses with its authentic Japanese voice acting and exhilarating sound design, enhancing the gaming experience for fans. Critics praise the captivating soundtrack and sound effects that align with the anime's intensity. However, some lament the soundtrack's reliance on rock and the need for DLC to access original anime music, while a few voice performances are deemed average. Overall, the game resonates well with fans, effectively capturing the essence of the beloved franchise despite some criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

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 generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the gaming experience. Many reviewers praised the inclusion of original Japanese voice actors, which adds authenticity to the game. For instance, Eurogamer Italy noted that the sound design is closely tied to the Dragon Ball universe, while Game Informer pointed out that the voice acting brings classic characters to life, adding to the overall enjoyment. Critics like Hobby Consolas and The Digital Fix emphasized the impressive sound design, with exciting music and sound effects that match the anime's intensity. The soundtrack, described by Worth Playing as "fantastic," complements the action well and features memorable character themes that enhance the overall experience, as noted by DarkStation. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the soundtrack and sound design. Several critics, including 3DJuegos and JeuxActu, expressed disappointment with the soundtrack's lack of impact compared to previous works by composer Kenji Yamamoto, citing a heavy reliance on rock elements that may not appeal to all players. The need for additional payments for the original anime music as DLC was also a point of contention, as highlighted by Gameblog.fr and Nintenderos. Additionally, while many praised the voice acting, some reviews, like that of Ragequit.gr, described it as average, indicating that the quality can be inconsistent. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ delivers a solid sound design and music experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise. While there are criticisms regarding the soundtrack's variety and the need for additional purchases, the immersive sound effects and authentic voice acting contribute significantly to the game's appeal. Critics like GamingTrend and Vandal noted that the sound design effectively enhances the combat experience, making it a key element of the game. Despite some shortcomings, the overall sentiment leans towards appreciation for the audio aspects, indicating that it successfully captures the essence of the beloved anime series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ boasts highly praised voice acting, featuring original Japanese actors and a solid English dub, enhancing character interactions and storytelling. Critics laud its authenticity and dual-language options, though some mention over-exaggerated performances and subtitle syncing issues as minor drawbacks. Overall, the voice work is a standout feature, deeply resonating with fans and enriching the gaming experience.

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 voice acting in Dragon Ball FighterZ has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its authenticity and execution. Many reviewers, including 3DJuegos and Game Informer, commend the game for featuring original Japanese voice actors alongside a well-executed English dub. This dual-language option not only enhances character interactions but also allows players to choose their preferred experience, as noted by Attack of the Fanboy and GameSpot. The performances are described as capturing the essence of the characters, contributing to the humor and charm of the story mode, with critics like Softpedia and The Digital Fix emphasizing the engaging nature of the voice work that adds depth to the storytelling. Despite the overall positive reception, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting. A few reviewers, such as PLAY! Zine and Ragequit.gr, mention instances of over-exaggeration in performances that can detract from the experience. Additionally, TheSixthAxis points out a lack of polish in subtitle synchronization with the voice acting, which may affect the immersion for some players. While the majority of critics enjoyed the voice acting, these minor critiques suggest that there are areas for improvement that could enhance the overall quality. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly favorable, with many highlighting the voice acting as a standout feature of Dragon Ball FighterZ. The game successfully integrates the original voice actors from the anime, creating a sense of authenticity that resonates with fans of the series, as noted by critics like GamingTrend and Worth Playing. The option to switch between Japanese and English voiceovers has been well-received, allowing players to tailor their experience to their preferences. In summary, while there are some minor criticisms, the voice acting in Dragon Ball FighterZ is largely celebrated as a significant asset that enriches the gameplay and connects players to the beloved characters of the franchise.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ showcases strong technical performance on PS4 and Nintendo Switch, with smooth gameplay and effective matchmaking praised by critics. However, persistent connectivity issues, long load times on Xbox One, and occasional framerate drops on Switch hinder the online experience. Despite improvements from patches, the game still needs refinement to ensure a stable online environment for competitive play.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Dragon Ball FighterZ varies across different platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the PlayStation 4, many reviewers, including Game Informer and Vandal, praised the online mode for its minimal lag and efficient matchmaking, contributing to a smooth experience during competitive play. Similarly, the Nintendo Switch version has garnered commendations for running at a solid 60 FPS with no detectable slowdowns, as noted by Nintendo Life and Impulsegamer. Critics like Gamers' Temple have also highlighted that the game performs well on both PS4 and Xbox One, with no significant issues affecting gameplay. On the Xbox One, some reviewers, such as Generación Xbox, reported a generally smooth experience without major technical problems. However, the reviews also reveal several negative aspects regarding technical performance across all platforms. On the PS4, critics like Trusted Reviews and New Game Network pointed out persistent connectivity issues, particularly in online modes, with long matchmaking times and server problems being common complaints. The Xbox One version has been criticized for long load times and a complicated lobby system that detracts from the overall experience, as mentioned by Digital Trends and Game Revolution. On the Nintendo Switch, while the performance is generally praised, some critics like Trusted Reviews noted issues with framerate drops and visual downgrades during intense moments, which could affect player immersion. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Dragon Ball FighterZ has made strides in technical performance, particularly in delivering smooth gameplay, significant connectivity issues persist across all platforms. Many reviewers, including Twinfinite and InsideGamer.nl, highlighted that online play is often marred by lag and disconnections, which detracts from the competitive experience. Although patches have improved some aspects, as noted by Gameplanet and PlaySense, the game still requires further refinement to achieve a consistently stable online environment. Overall, while the game demonstrates potential with its engaging mechanics and visuals, the online technical performance remains a critical area needing attention.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ is generally praised for its replay value, thanks to diverse modes, unlockable content, and a vibrant online community. Critics highlight strong arcade and multiplayer experiences but criticize the repetitive story mode and connectivity issues. While the game excels in character variety and competitive play, its single-player shortcomings temper overall enthusiasm, leading to a mixed but positive reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Dragon Ball FighterZ is quite positive, with many critics highlighting the game's diverse offerings. Several reviewers, including Generación Xbox and PlayStation LifeStyle, praised the variety of modes available, such as arcade, story, and online play, which cater to both casual and competitive players. The arcade mode, in particular, is noted for its scaling difficulty and the potential for players to improve their skills, as mentioned by Press Start Australia and App Trigger. Additionally, the presence of unlockable content, character customization, and a robust online community further enhances the replayability, making it appealing for players who enjoy exploring different characters and strategies, as highlighted by GameCrate and Digital Trends. However, there are notable criticisms that detract from the game's replay value. Many critics, including GameSpot and Cubed3, pointed out the repetitive nature of the story mode, which may discourage players from returning to it frequently. This sentiment is echoed by New Game Network, which mentioned that some modes lack depth and may lead to a diminished replay experience. Furthermore, connectivity issues in online play, as noted by Video Chums and Polygon, could frustrate players seeking a seamless competitive experience. The reliance on DLC for additional characters, as mentioned by Trusted Reviews, also raises concerns about the game's longevity and accessibility. The overall consensus among critics is that while Dragon Ball FighterZ offers substantial replay value through its various modes and engaging multiplayer options, it is somewhat hampered by the repetitive elements of the story mode and some connectivity issues. Critics like We Got This Covered and Gamer.no recognize the potential for ongoing engagement, particularly in multiplayer settings, but also caution that the single-player experience may not hold the same appeal. Ultimately, the game's strengths in character variety and competitive play are balanced by its weaknesses in certain modes, leading to a mixed but generally favorable outlook on its replay value.

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 polished gameplay, stunning visuals, and accessibility for players of various skill levels. Reviewers like AusGamers and Easy Allies highlight the game's fast-paced and enjoyable fighting mechanics, making it a worthy addition for both Dragon Ball fans and fighting game enthusiasts. Critics such as Game Informer and PlayStation LifeStyle emphasize the successful blend of accessibility and depth, catering to newcomers while still providing challenges for veterans. The game's visual design is consistently lauded, with multiple reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and The Digital Fix, noting its impressive graphics that enhance the overall experience. Additionally, the multiplayer aspect of the game is frequently mentioned as a highlight, offering a fun and engaging environment for players. Despite the many accolades, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Issues with online connectivity were raised by Twinfinite and Easy Allies, which could detract from the overall multiplayer experience. Additionally, concerns regarding the single-player mode's pacing and depth were echoed by several reviewers, including Gamer.no and Areajugones, who felt that the story mode did not live up to the high standards set by the game's combat. Some critics, like Nintenderos and Cubed3, also mentioned a smaller character roster at launch and limitations in the Nintendo Switch port, which could disappoint hardcore fans seeking a more comprehensive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ stands out as one of the best fighting games available, particularly for fans of the franchise. The game successfully captures the essence of the Dragon Ball series while providing a robust fighting experience that appeals to a wide audience. Critics like Generación Xbox and Critical Hit have gone so far as to label it the best Dragon Ball game ever made, highlighting its ability to balance fan service with solid gameplay mechanics. While there are some criticisms regarding specific aspects of the game, the majority of reviewers agree that Dragon Ball FighterZ is a must-play title that delivers an engaging and visually stunning experience for both casual and hardcore players alike.

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a critically acclaimed fighting game celebrated for its polished gameplay, stunning visuals, and accessibility for all skill levels. Critics praise its fast-paced mechanics and engaging multiplayer, solidifying its status as a top fighting game, especially for Dragon Ball fans. However, issues like online connectivity, a lackluster single-player mode, and a smaller character roster at launch have been noted. Despite these concerns, it’s hailed as a must-play title that brilliantly balances fan service with solid gameplay.

MONSTER

Reviews

203 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.

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.

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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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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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.

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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