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Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot
Item: Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2020

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJan 17, 2020

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperCyberConnect2

Overview

Relive the story of Goku in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot! Beyond the epic battles, experience life in the Dragon Ball Z world as you fight, fish, eat, and train with Goku. Explore the new areas and adventures as you advance through the story and form powerful bonds with other heroes from the Dragon Ball Z universe.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

76%

Mixed (50-79)

24%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot are generally positive. Many critics praise the game for its faithful retelling of the Dragon Ball Z series, with accurate and enjoyable storytelling. GamingTrend, Daily Star, Softpedia, and GameStar all mention that the game stays true to the source material and covers all major story arcs, providing an engaging narrative experience. They appreciate how the game fills in plotholes, explains character relationships, and explores smaller stories and character interactions. This attention to detail and worldbuilding is commended by critics such as Gamers Heroes and Digitally Downloaded, who highlight the game's ability to offer a new perspective on the events of the series and focus on the characters' lives and in-between moments. However, there are some criticisms regarding Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot's storytelling. VG247 mentions that while the game covers all major arcs, it skips over impactful and memiest moments, which can make the story feel rushed. TheSixthAxis also notes that while the game delivers the full narrative of the early arcs, it may not satisfy those looking for a deeper exploration of the story. Impulsegamer expresses a desire for more gameplay and less cutscenes, feeling that the balance between the two is skewed. GameCritics mentions that the game retells the DBZ saga but fails to address the gaps in Goku's story, leaving the reviewer wanting more. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot successfully retells the story of the Dragon Ball Z series, capturing the spirit and tone of the franchise. Critics like GameSpot, Game Informer, and God is a Geek appreciate how the game offers a refreshing and enjoyable way to experience the story, providing a glimpse into the lives of the characters outside of battles. The game's faithfulness to the source material and its ability to condense the lengthy anime into a 30-40 hour video game are also praised by critics such as GameSkinny and New Game Network. While there are some criticisms regarding missed moments and pacing issues, the overall sentiment is positive, with critics finding the story of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot to be engaging and nostalgic.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics generally praise Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot for its faithful retelling of the series, commending its storytelling and attention to detail in exploring character relationships and interactions. While some critics note missed moments and pacing issues, the game is lauded for capturing the spirit of the franchise and offering a nostalgic and engaging experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot are varied, with both positive and negative aspects highlighted. Several critics praise the combat mechanics, noting that it is simple yet difficult to master, with a large variety of special attacks. GamingTrend, ZTGD, and God is a Geek all appreciate the fast-paced and fun combat, with ZTGD specifically mentioning the fantastic dodging and attacking mechanics. The inclusion of RPG-inspired features like cooking and community building is also commended by Gamers Heroes, adding depth to the gameplay. However, there are some criticisms regarding the gameplay of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. Softpedia mentions that while the combat is great with simplified controls, the RPG elements are thin and the side content is underdeveloped. VG247 and TheSixthAxis both express disappointment with the combat, stating that it can feel simplistic and lacking in depth. Game Informer criticizes the repetitive side missions and lack of fun in the open-world areas. Overall, the critics' consensus on the gameplay of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is mixed. While there are positive aspects such as the enjoyable combat mechanics and the inclusion of RPG elements, there are also negative aspects such as the lack of depth in the combat and repetitive side missions. It is worth noting that some critics, such as AusGamers and GameCritics, find the combat to be accessible and well-handled, while others, like Impulsegamer, feel that it becomes repetitive after a few hours. Ultimately, the gameplay of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot offers a mix of engaging combat and RPG elements, but it may not fully satisfy those seeking a deeper and more varied gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot's gameplay. Some praise the combat mechanics and RPG features, while others criticize the lack of depth, repetitive side missions, and underdeveloped content. Overall, the game offers enjoyable combat but may not fully satisfy those looking for a more varied experience.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot are quite varied. Many critics praised the game's visuals, with some highlighting the beautifully animated cutscenes and explosive combat. Softpedia, for example, commends the game for its beautifully animated cutscenes, while Gamers Heroes describes the combat as visually stunning with explosive attacks and character flair. GameStar also mentions the impressive visuals, with screen-filling explosions and excellent animations. Additionally, critics such as God is a Geek and New Game Network appreciate the game's art style and its ability to capture the essence of the Dragon Ball series. On the other hand, there were some criticisms regarding the game's graphics and visual design. Daily Star mentions that the transition between walking and flight is not as fluid as expected, and GameStar notes that the camera sometimes has issues. PlayStation Universe points out several problems, including problematic camera behavior, minimal animation in some scenes, and the lack of an intuitive way to raise or lower altitude. GameSpew also highlights the mixed quality of visuals, with some character models looking glorious while others appear angular, and environments occasionally appearing barren with blurry and bland textures. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot features visually stunning moments, particularly in the fully animated cinematics and combat sequences. The game successfully captures the spirit and aesthetics of the Dragon Ball series, with attention to detail and faithful recreations of scenes from the manga and anime. However, there are some areas of improvement, such as addressing camera issues and enhancing the consistency of visual quality throughout the game. Despite these criticisms, the game's visuals are generally praised for their ability to recreate the playful tone and iconic locations of the Dragon Ball universe.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on the graphics of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. Some praise the beautifully animated cutscenes and explosive combat, while others criticize issues like camera problems and inconsistent visual quality. Overall, the game captures the essence of the Dragon Ball series but has room for improvement in certain areas.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot are mixed. Several critics praised the game's soundtrack and voice acting. Softpedia described the soundtrack and voice acting as exceptional, while Impulsegamer mentioned that the music and voice over work were extremely well done, with the same voice actors from the show reprising their roles. GameStar also appreciated the use of the original soundtrack from the anime, which enhanced the overall experience. AusGamers highlighted the inclusion of the iconic Head-Cha-La theme song and sound effects from the anime. These positive opinions indicate that the game successfully captures the signature sounds of the Dragon Ball Z series and brings the characters to life through the voice acting. However, there were also some negative opinions regarding the Sound Design and Music of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. GamingTrend mentioned that the game had a small selection of music that was repeated frequently, which could potentially become repetitive and tiresome for players. TheSixthAxis criticized the audio, mentioning unnecessary pauses in the script and occasional glitches in the dialogue. New Game Network expressed disappointment with the delivery of the dialogue, stating that it felt stilted and awkward, with breaks between sentences feeling strange. These negative opinions indicate that there were some shortcomings in the sound design and music of the game, such as repetitive music and issues with the dialogue delivery. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot has a mixed reception when it comes to its Sound Design and Music. While there were positive remarks regarding the exceptional soundtrack, voice acting, and the use of the original anime soundtrack, there were also criticisms regarding the limited music selection, glitches in the dialogue, and stilted delivery. It is clear that the game's sound design and music had both strengths and weaknesses. However, the positive opinions from Softpedia, Impulsegamer, and AusGamers suggest that the game successfully captures the essence of the Dragon Ball Z series through its sound design and music.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the Sound Design and Music of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. Some praised the exceptional soundtrack and voice acting, while others criticized the limited music selection and glitches in dialogue. Positive feedback highlights the game's ability to capture the essence of the series, but negative remarks point out repetitive music and stilted dialogue delivery. Overall, the game's sound design and music have strengths and weaknesses, with both supporters and detractors among critics.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

11%

Negative (0-49)

11%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot are varied. Several critics, such as Softpedia and Impulsegamer, praise the voice acting, stating that it heavily supports the narrative and that the same voice actors from the show reprised their roles, bringing the characters to life. This indicates that the voice acting successfully enhances the overall experience of the game and helps players to better connect with the characters. Additionally, Video Chums and God is a Geek mention that the game features a talented and familiar English voice cast, further highlighting the positive aspects of the voice acting. However, there are also critics who express concerns about the voice acting in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. GameSkinny criticizes the dialogue and animations outside of cutscenes, stating that they often feel stiff and lack emotion. This criticism suggests that the voice acting may not be as consistent or impactful in these particular moments, potentially detracting from the overall immersion and engagement of the game. New Game Network also points out that while the original English voice actors have returned, the presentation of the dialogue feels stilted and awkward. This criticism indicates that there may be issues with the delivery or execution of the voice acting in certain instances. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot has both positive and negative aspects. While some critics appreciate the presence of proper voice acting throughout the story content, with the same voice cast from the TV series reprising their roles (VG247), others highlight concerns about the stiffness and lack of emotion in the dialogue and animations outside of cutscenes (GameSkinny). It is worth noting that the majority of critics acknowledge the talent and familiarity of the English voice cast (Video Chums), as well as the inclusion of both English and Japanese voice options (GamersRD). Despite the mixed opinions, it seems that the voice acting in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot generally adds value to the game and contributes to the overall immersion and enjoyment for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. Some praise the voice actors for bringing characters to life and enhancing the narrative, while others criticize stiffness and lack of emotion in certain moments. Despite varying views, most agree that the voice acting adds value to the game and contributes to player immersion and enjoyment.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot, the opinions of the critics vary depending on the gaming platform. On the positive side, the PS5 version of the game seems to offer improved performance, with a constant frame rate of 60 FPS, resulting in fast and fluid fights, as mentioned by GamersRD. Additionally, the PS5 port also provides a 60 frames-per-second performance mode, offering more responsive controls, according to Push Square. This suggests that players on the PS5 can enjoy a smoother and more immersive gaming experience. On the other hand, there are some negative aspects regarding the technical performance on different platforms. For instance, some critics playing on the PS4, such as GamingTrend and Easy Allies, mention minor bugs and long load times that can break immersion and lead to frustration. Similarly, GameSpew's experience on Xbox One highlights performance issues, including slowdown during battles and fiddly controls for flying. These issues can hinder the overall gameplay experience and potentially impact the enjoyment of the game. Taking into account the opinions of the critics, the overall consensus regarding the technical performance of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is mixed. While some platforms, like the PS5, offer improved performance with stable frame rates and more responsive controls, other platforms, such as the PS4 and Xbox One, suffer from issues like long load times, slowdowns during battles, and fiddly controls. However, it is worth noting that some critics, like TheSixthAxis and New Game Network, mention stable frame rates and improved loading times after patches, indicating that the game runs fine on certain platforms. Despite the negatives, the game still manages to provide an enjoyable experience overall, as stated by God is a Geek. Overall, the technical performance of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot seems to vary depending on the gaming platform, with some platforms offering a smoother and more immersive experience, while others suffer from performance issues that can impact gameplay. Players on the PS5 seem to have a more positive experience, while those on the PS4 and Xbox One may encounter some technical drawbacks. However, despite these issues, the game still manages to deliver an enjoyable experience for fans of the Dragon Ball Z franchise.

TL;DR

technical performance

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot's technical performance divides critics by platform. PS5 shines with stable 60 FPS and responsive controls, enhancing gameplay. However, PS4 faces bugs and long load times, while Xbox One suffers slowdowns and fiddly controls. Mixed reviews overall, but patches improve stability on some platforms. PS5 offers a smoother experience, while PS4 and Xbox One encounter technical issues. Despite flaws, the game still provides an enjoyable experience for Dragon Ball Z fans.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

18%

Mixed (50-79)

71%

Negative (0-49)

12%

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot has received mixed opinions from critics regarding its replay value. Some critics, such as Digitally Downloaded and God is a Geek, praised the game for offering a significant amount of content and activities to engage in, which can provide hours of fun and entertainment. They highlight the game's side quests, optional enemies, and post-game content as factors that contribute to its replayability. Additionally, the Dragon Balls and training system mentioned by Easy Allies add some replay value to the game. These positive aspects suggest that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot can offer a meaty and enjoyable experience for players who are willing to invest time into exploring all its offerings. However, there are also critics who express concerns about the game's replay value. GameStar and Slant Magazine criticize the lack of meaningful interaction with the world and the presence of repetitive tasks, which limit the game's replayability. Game Informer also mentions issues with the gating of skill trees and the jarring switches between characters in the story, which may negatively impact the desire to replay the game. GameSkinny and PC Gamer mention that while there is a significant amount of side content and collectibles available, many of them are not worth the time investment, and certain systems like the Community Board and collecting Soul Emblems can feel burdensome. These negative aspects suggest that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot may not provide a consistently engaging and varied experience for players seeking replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot offers a mixed replay value. While the game provides a substantial amount of content and activities, it also suffers from occasional filler quests, repetitive tasks, and systems that may feel burdensome. Critics like Impulsegamer and GamersRD acknowledge that the game may not offer much replay value for longtime fans who are already familiar with the story, but it can still be an enjoyable experience for them. The opinions of critics highlight the need for players to have the right mindset and willingness to engage with the game's content to fully appreciate its replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot's replay value divides critics. Some praise its plethora of content like side quests and post-game activities, while others criticize its lack of meaningful interaction and repetitive tasks. While some find the game enjoyable with its Dragon Balls and training system, others feel burdened by collectibles and systems like the Community Board. Overall, critics agree that the game offers a mixed replay value, urging players to invest time to fully enjoy its offerings.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

39%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot has received a generally positive response from critics, with many praising its faithful adaptation of the Dragon Ball Z story and enjoyable gameplay. GamingTrend commends the game for its accurate storytelling and enjoyable gameplay, despite technical issues. Daily Star describes it as a fun and enjoyable Dragon Ball experience that appeals to both newcomers and veterans of the series. Digitally Downloaded highlights the well-paced experience that allows players to relive iconic fights and interact with their favorite characters. GameStar also praises the game for faithfully recreating the Z-Saga and offering satisfying combat. PC Gamer acknowledges that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot efficiently covers the entire Dragon Ball Z saga, providing a solid RPG experience. However, there are some criticisms regarding the game. Softpedia mentions that while the game excels in its story and bombastic fights, it lacks depth in RPG elements and side content. ZTGD wishes for more interesting side quests and activities to enhance the overall experience. Easy Allies points out that the game is held back by repetitive combat and dull side quests. TheSixthAxis mentions that while the game is visually stunning and has a satisfying narrative, improvements could be made to the gameplay and audio. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is a solid entry in the franchise that offers an enjoyable way to experience the classic story of Dragon Ball Z. Critics like GameSpot, Game Informer, and GameCritics appreciate the game for giving fans a fun way to reexperience the saga, despite some flaws in gameplay and RPG elements. AusGamers and GameSkinny mention that while the game is faithful to the series, it lacks depth and activities to make the world feel more alive. However, there are also critics like GAMINGbible and God is a Geek who highly praise the game, considering it the Dragon Ball Z game the series deserves. In conclusion, Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is generally regarded as a faithful and enjoyable adaptation of the Dragon Ball Z story, with its accurate storytelling and enjoyable gameplay being the main highlights. While there are criticisms regarding the lack of depth in RPG elements, repetitive combat, and dull side quests, the overall consensus is that the game successfully captures the essence of the anime and provides a solid experience for both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.

TL;DR

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot impresses with its faithful adaptation of the iconic story and exciting gameplay, earning praise from critics for its storytelling and combat mechanics. While some criticize its lack of depth in RPG elements and repetitive quests, the game still offers an enjoyable experience for fans old and new. Overall, it's deemed a solid entry in the franchise that captures the essence of Dragon Ball Z.

MONSTER

Reviews

201 reviews found

GAMINGbible

PlayStation 4

Jan 16, 2020

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is the Dragon Ball Z game the series deserves, delivering a timeless tale and enjoyable gameplay. It receives a score of 9 out of 10.

GameCritics

Feb 19, 2020

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

The review praises the game for its faithful adaptation of the source material and suggests that it may be the definitive Dragon Ball Z videogame.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Feb 16, 2023

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot for PS5 is the ideal version to play, with improved graphics, stable performance, and a satisfying gameplay experience.

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Impulsegamer

Feb 6, 2020

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

The reviewer found Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot to be a rather enjoyable experience, with flaws but still worth playing. They gave it a score of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Jan 22, 2020

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is an essential single player Dragon Ball game for both new fans and series veterans. It captures the essence of the anime with its enjoyable combat, deep systems, and variety of content.

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Video Chums

Xbox One

Jan 27, 2020

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is an epic RPG with exciting combat, impressive visuals, and a lot of content to unlock and master. However, it lacks depth in combat strategy and can be too easy with RPG elements.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Jan 26, 2020

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is an amazing time for both newcomers and long-time fans, with a well-paced experience that lets you relive iconic fights and live a little with your favorite characters.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Jan 27, 2020

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

Accurate telling of the Dragon Ball Z story with enjoyable gameplay, hindered by technical issues

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GameSpew

Xbox One

Jan 20, 2020

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is a game that will appeal to Dragon Ball fans, but also to those who have an interest in the franchise but haven't watched it from beginning to end. It offers an epic story and engaging action RPG gameplay, despite its shortcomings.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

Jan 20, 2020

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

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot takes a tried formula and injects enough heart into it to make it stand out. The game plays to its strengths well, making the issues less noticeable. It will become a cult classic among beloved franchise games.

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