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80

MONSTER

Star Icon

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero

2024
GenresAction, Third Person Perspective, Fighting, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer
AvailableOct 11, 2024
PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC
DeveloperSpike Chunsoft
Overview

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero takes the legendary gameplay of the Budokai Tenkaichi series and raises it to whole new levels.

Elsewhere
Score icon

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

76

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s story mode is a divisive blend of nostalgic fan-service and inventive "What If?" twists, offering branching paths and character-driven episodes that thrill hardcore fans—but its low-budget execution, static visuals, fragmented pacing, and underdeveloped characters tank immersion, making it a niche, gameplay-first experience that prioritizes replayability over cinematic polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

76

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

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

The story mode of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is praised for its creative approach to fan service and narrative experimentation, with many critics highlighting its branching paths and "What If?" scenarios as standout features. IGN and IGN France commend the game for offering alternate outcomes that tap into fan speculation, while Eurogamer and Wccftech note the engaging, well-written character-specific episodes and intriguing hypothetical twists. TheXboxHub and XboxEra appreciate the non-canon routes and the ability to explore pivotal moments through different character lenses, and GameSpot and PC GamesN acknowledge the inclusion of key arcs from Dragon Ball Z and Super, with some critics like Generación Xbox and CGMagazine pointing to the nostalgic appeal of reliving iconic battles. The game’s focus on replayability and its emphasis on familiar story beats, even if condensed, resonate with long-time fans seeking deeper engagement with the Dragon Ball universe. However, the narrative’s execution faces significant criticism for its lack of depth, cinematic polish, and accessibility. Multiple reviewers, including GamingTrend, Vgames, and GamesHub, describe the story as "low-budget" and "undercooked," with static text summaries and captioned slideshows replacing animated cutscenes, which hampers immersion. Push Square and COGconnected note the fragmented pacing and missed opportunities, such as skipped key moments or omitted iconic fights, while Malditos Nerds and GIGA criticize the underdeveloped portrayal of characters like Piccolo and Vegeta. The reliance on still images and minimal exposition for newcomers, as highlighted by GRYOnline.pl and TheXboxHub, makes the story feel alienating, and some, like PC Gamer and MGG, point out the absence of Dragon Ball GT and the rushed treatment of epic arcs. The lack of full voice acting in story segments, as mentioned by PC Games, further detracts from the experience. Overall, the critics present a mixed but largely balanced view, with the game’s story mode being a polarizing mix of nostalgia and innovation. While it excels in offering alternate perspectives and "What If?" scenarios that cater to die-hard fans, its technical and narrative shortcomings—such as static visuals, repetitive structure, and limited depth—limit its appeal to broader audiences. TheXboxHub and Eurogamer acknowledge the potential for DLC expansions and the value of the content for series enthusiasts, but the consensus leans toward it being a niche experience. Most agree that Sparkling! Zero prioritizes gameplay over storytelling, with the narrative feeling more like a supplementary feature than a cohesive, immersive journey. Despite its flaws, the game’s ability to recontextualize familiar arcs and provide replayable choices keeps it relevant for fans, even if it falls short of expectations for a more polished, cinematic experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s story mode is a divisive blend of nostalgic fan-service and inventive "What If?" twists, offering branching paths and character-driven episodes that thrill hardcore fans—but its low-budget execution, static visuals, fragmented pacing, and underdeveloped characters tank immersion, making it a niche, gameplay-first experience that prioritizes replayability over cinematic polish.

85

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero delivers deep, skill-based combat and a vast roster of 180+ characters, but clunky mechanics, a steep learning curve, and technical flaws frustrate newcomers, though fans praise its nostalgic depth and dynamic modes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

85

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

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

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero for its depth, variety, and engaging combat mechanics. Many highlighted the fast-paced, strategic nature of the fights, with features like Skill Count, Ki management, and transformations adding layers of complexity. GameSpot and CGMagazine noted the "flashy special attacks" and "modernized" systems that reward skill and mastery, while Digital Trends and Siliconera emphasized the satisfying interplay of offensive and defensive techniques. The game’s extensive roster of over 180 characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles, was frequently lauded for enhancing replayability and creative match-ups, as mentioned by GINX TV and Noisy Pixel. Additionally, the inclusion of local co-op, online multiplayer, and modes like Episode Battle and Custom Battle provided a rich, dynamic experience, with IGN Portugal and MGG calling it "engaging" and "dynamic." Critics like GameGrin and SpazioGames also appreciated the faithful recreation of Dragon Ball’s iconic battles, with responsive actions and opportunities for "perfect timing" that mirrored the anime’s spectacle. However, several reviewers pointed out significant drawbacks, particularly around accessibility and technical execution. Gaming Age and GamingTrend criticized the "tedious" and "frustrating" combat system, citing clunky controls and a lack of combo depth. GLHF and PLAY! Zine described the mechanics as "unnecessarily complicated" and noted that the tutorial failed to adequately guide newcomers, creating a steep learning curve. ZTGD and GameStar mentioned technical issues like poor lock-on systems, hit detection problems, and a challenging AI that could frustrate players. Others, such as GIGA and XGN, acknowledged that while the gameplay was deep, the absence of clear guidance and balancing concerns due to the large character roster made it overwhelming initially. Additionally, some felt the game’s repetitive nature, as noted by IGN Portugal, and the need for extensive practice to master its systems, which could deter casual players despite its accessibility features. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leaned heavily toward positive assessments, with many agreeing that Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero delivers a compelling and immersive fighting experience. While some highlighted the challenges of its steep learning curve and technical quirks, the majority emphasized its rewarding combat, strategic depth, and nostalgic ties to the Budokai Tenkaichi series. Critics like Vgames and MGG praised its balance of classic and modern elements, while GameSpot and Digital Trends acknowledged its potential to become "exciting" once players adapted. The game’s emphasis on skill, timing, and creativity—echoed by SpazioGames and Shacknews—was seen as a strength, even if it required patience. Though not without flaws, the gameplay’s richness, variety, and dedication to the Dragon Ball universe resonated strongly, making it a standout title for fans and fighting game enthusiasts alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero delivers deep, skill-based combat and a vast roster of 180+ characters, but clunky mechanics, a steep learning curve, and technical flaws frustrate newcomers, though fans praise its nostalgic depth and dynamic modes.

88

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero dazzles with UE5-powered visuals, vibrant cel-shading, and faithful anime recreation, hailed as the "best-looking Dragon Ball game" and a "playable anime episode." Minor cutscene flaws and technical hiccups exist, but they’re overshadowed by its immersive design and nostalgic, technically impressive execution—making it a standout series entry.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

88

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of critics praised Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero for its visually striking presentation, highlighting its faithful recreation of the anime’s aesthetic and technical prowess. Many lauded the game’s use of Unreal Engine 5, noting its impressive cel-shading style, vibrant colors, and detailed character models that closely mirror the source material. Reviews from GIGA and Push Square emphasized the game’s "highly detailed" visuals and "stunning" special effects, with Push Square specifically calling it "one of the best-looking games in recent times." Inverse and Siliconera commended the dynamic energy effects and "jaw-droppingly gorgeous" attack animations, while XboxEra and Player 2 praised the HD character designs and destructible, expansive arenas. GameGrin and Checkpoint Gaming highlighted the immersive experience, with GameGrin noting "phenomenal animated cutscenes" that enhance the game’s "distinct style," and Checkpoint Gaming appreciating the "clear visual cues" and well-designed environments that elevate gameplay. Overall, the game’s visuals were seen as a triumph, with several critics calling it the "best-looking Dragon Ball game" and a "playable anime episode." However, some reviewers pointed out notable flaws in the graphics and visual design, particularly in cutscenes and technical execution. PCGamesN criticized the "basic cutscenes with simple animations and freeze frames," while IGN France noted "poor animation quality" in cutscenes that gave a "puppet" effect. IGN Brasil and CGMagazine mentioned camera issues that hindered visibility during intense battles, and Final Weapon described "muddy or jagged" visuals in Episode Battle transitions. Wccftech and GameGrin pointed to "visual clutter" and "stiff animations" as detractors, while Gaming Age noted minor performance hiccups. These critiques often centered on the game’s storytelling sequences and technical polish, with some arguing that the visual fidelity during combat and character design overshadowed these issues. Despite these shortcomings, the negatives were generally framed as minor blemishes rather than deal-breakers. The overall consensus among critics leans heavily toward admiration for Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s graphics and visual design, with the positives significantly outweighing the negatives. While a handful of reviews highlighted specific technical or animation issues, the majority celebrated its ability to bring the Dragon Ball universe to life with "stunning" and "spectacular" visuals. GIGA and VG247 praised the "top-notch" animations and "high fidelity" to the anime, and LevelUp called it "one of the most beautiful anime games ever." Even critics like IGN Portugal and GameGrin acknowledged the game’s visual appeal despite minor flaws. The combination of Unreal Engine 5’s capabilities, cel-shading, and attention to detail in character and environment design created a cohesive and immersive experience that resonated with fans. While not flawless, the game’s visual strengths solidified its reputation as a standout entry in the Dragon Ball fighting game series, with many viewing it as a nostalgic and technically impressive achievement.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero dazzles with UE5-powered visuals, vibrant cel-shading, and faithful anime recreation, hailed as the "best-looking Dragon Ball game" and a "playable anime episode." Minor cutscene flaws and technical hiccups exist, but they’re overshadowed by its immersive design and nostalgic, technically impressive execution—making it a standout series entry.

77

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s audio nails the franchise’s spirit with immersive soundscapes, epic combat effects, and nostalgic voice work—but its generic original score and DLC-locked classics alienate fans. While praised for authenticity, the lack of iconic music and paywalled content overshadow its technical strengths, leaving a strong but incomplete tribute to Dragon Ball’s legendary soundtrack.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

77

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

3%

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

The sound design and music of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero received generally positive feedback from multiple critics, who highlighted their ability to immerse players in the franchise’s universe. COGconnected praised the "stellar sound design and music," noting the effective blend of new and familiar elements that enhance the experience. Digital Trends commended the "amazing voice performances" and "faithful to signature attacks," while IGN and IGN Adria emphasized the "iconic sound effects and music" that resonate with fans and "authenticity to the anime." Gaming Age and PlaySense also appreciated how the audio evokes nostalgia, with the latter mentioning "electric guitar tracks" that complement intense battles. Inverse and PC Games noted the "explosive sound effects" and "impactful audio design," making combat feel epic and dynamic. These reviews collectively underscore the effort to maintain the series’ signature energy and emotional depth through sound. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings, particularly regarding the original soundtrack and accessibility. CD-Action criticized the lack of "iconic tracks from the series," while GRYOnline.pl and GameOver.gr lamented that many classic songs are locked behind DLC, requiring additional payment for full access. Voxel called the soundtrack "generic" and criticized missed opportunities to include "iconic original music," and Generación Xbox and SomosXbox echoed similar concerns about the absence of "classic melodies" without DLC purchases. PlaySense and MGG also noted that the original music felt underwhelming compared to the anime’s legacy, with some tracks only available in premium versions. These critiques suggest that while the audio is competent, it falls short of meeting expectations for a franchise with such a rich musical history, creating a sense of exclusion for players who don’t opt for paid content. Overall, the consensus leans toward appreciation for the game’s audio as a faithful homage to the Dragon Ball series, with many praising its immersive qualities and nostalgic value. Critics like COGconnected, IGN, and Inverse highlighted the effective use of sound effects and voice acting to enhance gameplay, while others, such as Gaming Age and PlaySense, acknowledged the effort to replicate the anime’s spirit. However, the recurring issue of DLC-locked content and a perceived lack of iconic music tempered the enthusiasm, with multiple reviewers (CD-Action, GRYOnline.pl, Voxel) pointing out that the soundtrack’s potential was undermined by commercial restrictions. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviews recognized the audio as a strong component of the game, balancing technical quality with emotional resonance, though with a clear desire for more comprehensive and accessible musical representation of the franchise’s legacy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s audio nails the franchise’s spirit with immersive soundscapes, epic combat effects, and nostalgic voice work—but its generic original score and DLC-locked classics alienate fans. While praised for authenticity, the lack of iconic music and paywalled content overshadow its technical strengths, leaving a strong but incomplete tribute to Dragon Ball’s legendary soundtrack.

77

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero dazzles with original voice actors, dual English/Japanese dubs, and nostalgic returns, but struggles with sparse voiceovers, missing languages, and uneven cutscenes—yet remains a fan-pleasing, immersive triumph despite flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

77

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

4%

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

The overall sentiment toward the voice acting in Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is largely positive, with many critics praising the inclusion of original voice actors and the quality of their performances. Digital Trends and IGN both highlight the "amazing voice performances" and note that most of the original cast from the English dub reprise their roles, which resonates strongly with fans. GIGA and God is a Geek emphasize that the game offers voice acting in both English and Japanese, enhancing storytelling and character immersion. PlaySense and PLAY! Zine also commend the solid voice acting, with the latter pointing out that it's mostly from the original series, a major plus for longtime fans. Additionally, Hey Poor Player and Worth Playing acknowledge the return of familiar voices from previous Budokai Tenkaichi games, contributing to the game's audio design and emotional depth. However, some critics point out limitations and inconsistencies in the voice acting implementation. GameOver.gr notes that the story is primarily told through subtitles without voiceovers, which they feel limits the experience. Player 2 also mentions a "reduced amount of voice acting in the story content," calling it inconsistent and potentially detracting from immersion. PC Games points out the absence of a German voiceover as a missed opportunity, while Generación Xbox criticizes the lack of a Spanish voiceover, arguing that it diminishes the emotional impact of the English dub. Additionally, PCGamesN notes that while the original actors are present, the execution during cutscenes lacks immersion, which could affect the overall experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers agree that the voice acting in Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is a strong and nostalgic component of the game. The presence of original voice actors, the option to choose between English and Japanese dubs, and the inclusion of unique character lines are frequently cited as positive aspects. While some platforms and languages are missing voiceovers, the general consensus is that the audio design enhances the game's appeal, especially for fans of the Dragon Ball series. Critics like TheXboxHub and SomosXbox specifically praise the voiceovers as "top drawer" and "fantastic," reinforcing the idea that the voice acting is a standout feature that contributes significantly to the game's immersive and authentic feel.

TL;DR

voice acting

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero dazzles with original voice actors, dual English/Japanese dubs, and nostalgic returns, but struggles with sparse voiceovers, missing languages, and uneven cutscenes—yet remains a fan-pleasing, immersive triumph despite flaws.

73

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero shines with smooth 60fps on PS5/Xbox, optimized PC performance, and improved Switch 2 stability, but grapples with camera glitches, online lag, and UI hiccups across platforms. While technical flaws in high-intensity scenarios and multiplayer linger, critics praise its solid foundation, calling it a worthwhile experience despite manageable imperfections.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

73

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

4%

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

The technical performance of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero receives generally positive feedback across platforms, with notable stability and optimization. On the PS5, critics like GameSpot and IGN highlight smooth 60fps performance, while GIGA and PlaySense praise the absence of lag and frame drops despite demanding graphics. Xbox Series X users also benefit from a polished experience, with Generación Xbox and MondoXbox noting seamless 60fps gameplay and minimal technical hiccups. The PC version, though less universally praised, sees Eurogamer and PC Gamer commend its optimization and solid online performance, while Switch 2 users (as reviewed by Final Weapon) enjoy smooth 30fps without frame drops, a stark improvement over the original Switch’s limitations. These platforms collectively demonstrate strong technical foundations, with most reviewers emphasizing fluid combat and stable frame rates. However, technical issues persist across platforms, particularly on the PS5 and Xbox Series X. IGN and IGN Adria report responsiveness issues and frame drops in multiplayer, while GamersRD and GRYOnline.pl note camera control problems during fast-paced action. Xbox Series X faces UI stuttering (XboxEra) and input delays (Xbox Tavern), and PC users encounter camera glitches (Checkpoint Gaming) and texture pop-ins (Eurogamer), with PCGamesN criticizing stutters and online instability. The Switch 2 version, while improved, still struggles with performance limitations on older hardware, as highlighted by Final Weapon. These issues, while often minor, collectively suggest that the game’s technical execution is not flawless, particularly in high-intensity scenarios or online modes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero delivers a technically solid experience, with platform-specific optimizations and occasional hiccups. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are lauded for their stability and performance, though both face minor issues like camera glitches and online lag. The PC port is praised for optimization but criticized for occasional stutters and UI flaws, while the Switch 2 version offers a smoother experience than its predecessor. While no platform is entirely free of technical flaws, the majority of reviews agree that the game’s core performance is strong, with most issues being manageable or context-dependent. Critics like GameSpot and Eurogamer underscore that the game’s technical strengths outweigh its shortcomings, making it a worthwhile experience despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

technical performance

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero shines with smooth 60fps on PS5/Xbox, optimized PC performance, and improved Switch 2 stability, but grapples with camera glitches, online lag, and UI hiccups across platforms. While technical flaws in high-intensity scenarios and multiplayer linger, critics praise its solid foundation, calling it a worthwhile experience despite manageable imperfections.

83

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero delivers explosive replayability via 182+ characters, flexible Custom Battle modes, and endless multiplayer options, raving for fans and creators. But its underwhelming single-player and grind-heavy systems alienate casual players, leaving mixed reviews: a tech-heavy, fan-service gem with limited appeal beyond dedicated enthusiasts.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

83

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

1%

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

The majority of reviewers highlight the game’s strong replay value through its extensive character roster, customizable battle modes, and diverse gameplay options. Critics like PC GamesN and MGG emphasize the 182-character lineup and planned DLC as key drivers for long-term engagement, while Digital Trends and ComicBook praise the Custom Battle mode for enabling players to craft mini-stories and explore alternate scenarios. GameSpew and GameStar note the wealth of modes, including tournaments, online multiplayer, and character customization, which cater to both casual and competitive players. GamingTrend and GIGA acknowledge the potential for replayability but contrast it with the game’s limited single-player depth, suggesting that the core appeal lies in its flexibility for creative and multiplayer experiences. IGN Brasil and GamingBolt also highlight branching paths and unlockable content, reinforcing the idea that the game’s variety keeps players invested, especially for fans of the Dragon Ball universe. However, several critics point to shortcomings that may dampen replayability. GamingTrend and GIGA criticize the lack of engaging single-player content and offline-focused features, arguing that the game’s appeal is skewed toward multiplayer and customization. IGN and XGN express uncertainty about whether the modes truly encourage repeated play, with XGN noting that local co-op is underdeveloped. Gaming Age and CD-Action suggest that while Custom Battle offers creativity, it may not attract casual players beyond dedicated fans. Inverse and Digital Chumps mention that grinding for items or underwhelming story elements could frustrate long-term engagement, and IGN France points to progression mechanics that might alienate some. These critiques indicate that while the game’s systems are robust, they may not compensate for a lack of narrative depth or balanced offline content for all audiences. Overall, the consensus leans toward Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero having significant replay value for its target demographic, particularly fans of the franchise and those interested in customization or multiplayer. PlaySense and GAMINGbible argue that the game’s modes and character variety ensure "ample" or "endless" replayability, while TheXboxHub and Pure Xbox frame it as "likely limitless" for enthusiasts. However, there’s a shared concern that the single-player experience feels underdeveloped, with GamingTrend and GamesHub noting its lack of narrative depth. Despite these criticisms, the game’s emphasis on user-generated content, DLC, and competitive play (as highlighted by Checkpoint Gaming and Impulsegamer) suggests it will retain appeal for dedicated players. The mixed feedback reflects a balance between its technical and creative strengths and its limitations in offering a cohesive, story-driven experience for broader audiences.

TL;DR

replay value

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero delivers explosive replayability via 182+ characters, flexible Custom Battle modes, and endless multiplayer options, raving for fans and creators. But its underwhelming single-player and grind-heavy systems alienate casual players, leaving mixed reviews: a tech-heavy, fan-service gem with limited appeal beyond dedicated enthusiasts.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

80

MONSTER

Star Icon

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

80

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of critics praised Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero for its nostalgic appeal, engaging gameplay, and faithful representation of the Dragon Ball universe. Many highlighted its robust character roster, vibrant visuals, and modernized take on the classic Budokai Tenkaichi formula, which resonated strongly with long-time fans. For instance, IGN and GameSpew commended the game’s "engaging gameplay" and "wealth of content," while GamersRD and GAMINGbible lauded it as a "worthy sequel" and "best Dragon Ball game ever," respectively. The game’s fast-paced combat, customization options, and variety of modes were frequently noted as strengths, with GamingBolt and Impulsegamer emphasizing its "electrifying combat" and "polished" presentation. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and Gamepressure also appreciated its "fanservice" and "tools for creativity," suggesting it successfully captures the essence of the franchise while offering a modern twist. However, several reviewers pointed out significant limitations, including technical issues, narrative shortcomings, and gameplay imbalances. GamingTrend and Digital Trends criticized the game’s struggle to balance casual and competitive play, with the former noting "significant limitations" and the latter stating it "sacrifices too much in other areas." IGN and GamesHub highlighted "technical issues" and "flawed narrative execution," while Voxel and GINX TV mentioned "repetitive content" and "unbalanced roster." Some critics, like Carole Quintaine, pointed to "frustrating bugs," and SpazioGames noted "character balance issues" and "translation problems." Additionally, concerns about reliance on online play with potential input delay and a lack of diverse combat mechanics were raised, suggesting the game may not fully satisfy those seeking deeper or more varied experiences beyond its core fighting mechanics. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans heavily toward positive reception, with many calling it a strong return to the Budokai Tenkaichi series. While GamingTrend and Voxel expressed reservations about its identity and accessibility, the majority of reviews—such as those from IGN France, GAMINGbible, and MeuPlayStation—emphasized its value for fans, praising its "joyous overall experience," "exceptional rating," and "electrifying combat." The game’s ability to blend nostalgia with modern elements, along with its extensive content and character variety, was seen as a major triumph. However, the critiques about technical flaws, story depth, and balance suggest that while Sparking! Zero is a must-play for dedicated fans, it may not appeal to newcomers or those seeking a more refined, polished experience. The mixed but largely favorable reception underscores its status as a passionate, if imperfect, tribute to the Dragon Ball legacy.

TL;DR

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is a nostalgic, fan-pleasing triumph with electrifying combat, a massive character roster, and modernized flair, but struggles with technical glitches, repetitive content, and uneven balance, making it a passionate ode to the franchise that’s best suited for diehards over newcomers.

80

MONSTER

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Reviews

178 reviews found

100

ComicBook

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

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

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is highly praised for being a fusion of past and present Dragon Ball games, offering a great gameplay experience with a deep combat system and impressive visuals. It's recommended for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

Read full review

Full review

100

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Oct 8, 2024

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

DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO is a polished Dragon Ball game with extensive content, fun combat mechanics, and impressive visuals, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

Read full review

Full review

97

Hooked Gamers

PC

Oct 9, 2024

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

Sparking Zero is a labor of love that successfully revitalizes the beloved series, offering gripping gameplay, beautiful graphics, and a wealth of content for fans.

Read full review

Full review

95

COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Oct 9, 2024

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

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is a polished and fun Dragon Ball game with abundant content, gorgeous presentation, and satisfying gameplay, despite minor issues with episode battle presentations and rare online connection problems.

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Full review

95

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 13, 2024

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

Dragon Ball Sparking! ZERO is hailed as the definitive Dragon Ball game, combining enjoyable arcade gameplay with depth, a vast character roster, and impressive technical execution, making it a must-play for fans.


95

MeuPlayStation

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

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

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is highly recommended for both newcomers and long-time fans, offering electrifying combat, a massive character roster, and exciting gameplay mechanics, despite minor flaws like lack of Portuguese dubbing and limited maps.

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Full review

95

GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

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

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero exceeds expectations by delivering a worthy sequel to Budokai Tenkaichi 3. Combines familiar gameplay with new mechanics, impressive visuals, and a high level of customization. Offers a variety of engaging game modes and promises post-launch DLC content.

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95

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Oct 15, 2024

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

Overall, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is considered a wonderful fighting experience with a rich array of characters and customization options, though the imbalanced fighting may challenge some players.

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Full review

90

Carole Quintaine

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

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

Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is described as the ultimate Dragon Ball game, a worthy successor to Budokai Tenkaichi, offering a joyous overall experience despite some frustrating bugs.


90

LevelUp

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

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

Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO is a love letter to the franchise, modernizing the classic formula while introducing new mechanics and modes, making it a top-tier arena fighter.

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Full review
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