Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
Publisher / Developer:
Bandai Namco Entertainment, Spike ChunSoft
Release Date: October 11th 2024
ESRB: T (Teen)
Average Rating: 90%
Genres
Themes
Action Multiplayer Single player Split screen Third person

To play "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" on PC, you need to meet the following system requirements:

  • Minimum System Requirements:
    • Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
    • Processor: Intel Core i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
    • Memory: 8 GB RAM
    • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 980, AMD Radeon RX 590, or Intel Arc A750
    • DirectX: Version 12
    • Storage: 29 GB available space
    • Performance Target: 1080p/60FPS with Low graphics settings
  • Recommended System Requirements:
    • Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11
    • Processor: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
    • Memory: 16 GB RAM
    • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 or AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
    • DirectX: Version 12
    • Storage: 29 GB available space
    • Performance Target: 1080p/60FPS with High graphics settings
Publisher / Developer:
Bandai Namco Entertainment, Spike ChunSoft
Release Date: October 11th 2024
ESRB: T (Teen)
Average Rating: 90%
Genres
Themes
Action Multiplayer Single player Split screen Third person

To play "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" on PC, you need to meet the following system requirements:

  • Minimum System Requirements:
    • Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
    • Processor: Intel Core i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
    • Memory: 8 GB RAM
    • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 980, AMD Radeon RX 590, or Intel Arc A750
    • DirectX: Version 12
    • Storage: 29 GB available space
    • Performance Target: 1080p/60FPS with Low graphics settings
  • Recommended System Requirements:
    • Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11
    • Processor: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
    • Memory: 16 GB RAM
    • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 or AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
    • DirectX: Version 12
    • Storage: 29 GB available space
    • Performance Target: 1080p/60FPS with High graphics settings
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ℹ️ Frequently Asked Questions

When will "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" be officially released and what time can I start playing?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero was officially released on October 11, 2024. The game became available for players at different times depending on their region:

    • Pacific Time (PT): 3:00 PM, October 10, 2024
    • Central Time (CT): 5:00 PM, October 10, 2024
    • Eastern Time (ET): 6:00 PM, October 10, 2024
    • Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): 10:00 PM, October 10, 2024
    • Central European Time (CET): 12:00 AM, October 11, 2024
    • Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT): 9:00 AM, October 11, 2024

The game is available on *PC*, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S platforms. If you pre-ordered certain editions, early access was available from October 7, 2024.

Which platforms is "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" available on?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is available on the following platforms:

    • PC via Steam
    • PlayStation 5
    • Xbox Series X|S

What are the different editions of "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" and their key differences?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is available in several editions, each offering different content and bonuses:

    • Standard Edition
      • Includes the base game.
      • Pre-order bonuses include early unlocks for six playable characters and one exclusive character.
    • Deluxe Edition
      • Includes everything in the Standard Edition.
      • Comes with a Season Pass that provides early access to three DLC packs, featuring content from Dragon Ball SUPER: SUPER HERO and Dragon Ball DAIMA.
      • Includes a "Summon Shenron" bonus and grants three days early access to the DLC packs.
    • Ultimate Edition
      • Includes all content from the Deluxe Edition.
      • Features the "Ultimate Upgrade Pack," which includes exclusive in-game items such as a Goku (Super) Costume with Power Pole, Emote Voice Set, two player card backgrounds, and a customization item that enhances combat skills.
      • Offers an "Ultimate Edition Bonus" to summon Super Shenron.
    • Collector's Edition
      • Includes everything from the Ultimate Edition.
      • Comes with physical items such as a diorama, a lenticular card, and a metallic bookmark.
    • Premium Collector's Edition
      • Includes everything from the Collector's Edition.
      • Also comes with additional exclusive items like a Steelbook, exclusive cards from the Dragon Ball Super Card Game, and more.

Each edition caters to different preferences, from basic gameplay to collectors seeking exclusive physical items and extensive in-game content.

Does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" include both single-player and multiplayer modes?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero offers both single-player and multiplayer modes. In single-player, players can engage in modes such as Episode Battles, Custom Battles, and Story Mode, which revisits major arcs from the Dragon Ball series. For multiplayer, there are several options including online multiplayer modes like Battle Mode, Ranked Match, and Tournament Mode, as well as local multiplayer with split-screen available specifically in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber stage. This ensures a diverse gameplay experience whether playing alone or with others.

What unique features does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" offer to players?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero offers a plethora of unique features that enhance the gaming experience for players. Here are some of the standout features:

    • Massive Roster: The game features an impressive roster of over 182 characters from various Dragon Ball series, including Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball Super, Dragon Ball GT, and select movies. This makes it the largest roster in the franchise's history.
    • High-Speed 3D Battles: Players can engage in fast-paced 3D battles with authentic combat moves such as beam clashes, rush attacks, and planet-razing ultimate attacks, staying true to the anime series.
    • Dynamic Arenas: The arenas are reactive and destructible, adding a strategic layer to battles as the environment responds to player actions and powerful attacks.
    • Customization Options: The game allows extensive character customization, including Ability Capsules that enhance abilities and cosmetic options for personalizing fighters.
    • What-If Scenarios: Sparking Zero introduces "What If" scenarios in the story mode, providing unique narratives that deviate from the canonical storylines, such as Goku surviving the Raditz battle.
    • Unique Combat Mechanics: Features like Skill Count, Short Dash, Revenge Counter, Super Perception, Vanishing Assaults, and a new dash mechanic enhance the combat experience.
    • Custom Battle Mode: Players can create and share their own battles with customized rules, cutscenes, and scenarios, fostering community engagement.
    • Sparking Episodes: These are special story events that allow players to explore alternate paths and outcomes within the Dragon Ball universe.
    • Training and Accessibility: The game includes comprehensive tutorials and Battle Assist settings to cater to both new and experienced players, ensuring an accessible yet challenging gameplay experience.

These features, combined with stunning visuals and a nostalgic yet modern gameplay approach, make Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero a comprehensive and engaging experience for fans of the series.

What genre does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" primarily belong to?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero primarily belongs to the fighting game genre. It is specifically an arena fighter, featuring 3D battles in open spaces with a strong emphasis on strategic combat mechanics and full 3D movement. This game continues the tradition of the Budokai Tenkaichi series, focusing on dynamic and high-speed battles.

What are the minimum and recommended system requirements for playing "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" on PC?

To play "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" on PC, you need to meet the following system requirements:

    • Minimum System Requirements:
      • Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
      • Processor: Intel Core i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
      • Memory: 8 GB RAM
      • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 980, AMD Radeon RX 590, or Intel Arc A750
      • DirectX: Version 12
      • Storage: 29 GB available space
      • Performance Target: 1080p/60FPS with Low graphics settings
    • Recommended System Requirements:
      • Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11
      • Processor: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
      • Memory: 16 GB RAM
      • Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 or AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
      • DirectX: Version 12
      • Storage: 29 GB available space
      • Performance Target: 1080p/60FPS with High graphics settings

Does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" support mods, and how mod-friendly is the game?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero does support mods, primarily on the *PC* version. The game has a vibrant modding community that has developed numerous mods to enhance the gameplay experience. These include cosmetic changes, gameplay enhancements, and quality-of-life improvements, such as the DB Sparking Zero Minimalist Trainer mod and the Let's Fight Somewhere Else mod, which allows players to access custom maps across different game modes.

However, it is important to note that while the game supports mods, there is no official modding support from the developers. This means players are responsible for any issues that might arise from using mods. Furthermore, using mods in certain modes, like Custom Battles, could result in bans if they are uploaded to the online World Library, as the developers have issued warnings against this practice. Therefore, while the game is mod-friendly, players should use mods cautiously and adhere to the game's terms of service.

Is there support for cross-platform play or progression in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

No, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero does not support cross-platform play or progression at launch. Players can only play online with others on the same console or platform. There is no crossplay between consoles or between consoles and PC. While developers have acknowledged the possibility of implementing crossplay in the future, it is currently considered "difficult" and is not confirmed.

What downloadable content (DLC) or expansions are available for "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

"Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" offers a variety of downloadable content (DLC) and expansions that enhance the game experience. Here is a detailed list of the available content:

    • Season Pass: This includes three DLC packs, introducing over 20 playable characters from the Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero movie and the Dragon Ball Daima series. The season pass also provides a bonus to summon Shenron for items like costumes or zeni, and offers three days early access to these DLC packs.
    • Ultimate Upgrade Pack: This pack includes cosmetic items such as a Goku (Super) Costume with Power Pole, an Emote Voice Set, player card backgrounds, and a customization item that enhances a character's fighting ability.
    • Anime Music Packs 1 & 2: These DLCs allow players to change the battle and Sparking! Mode music to anime theme songs, featuring TV-sized or shortened versions of the tracks.
    • V-Jump Aura DLC: This unique DLC, available through V-Jump magazine, changes the aura surrounding characters when they power up, primarily usable on Saiyans and fusions. It costs around $4 and is available for Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation.
    • Martial Arts Pack: Although not fully detailed, this pack is expected to include early unlocks for certain characters and additional content.

These DLCs are available on platforms such as Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation. The game's Deluxe Edition and Ultimate Edition include the season pass, providing access to the included DLCs and early access bonuses.

Does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" have an esports scene or competitive leagues?

Yes, "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" has an emerging esports scene. Bandai Namco has announced the first world championship for the game, indicating its aspirations in the esports domain. The "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero World Tournament" will feature both online and on-site qualifiers, with finals scheduled to take place at the Dragon Ball Games Battle Hour in Los Angeles in 2025.

The tournament will include online national tournaments between November and December 2024, highlighting the competitive aspect of the game across nine regions: the United States (East and West), Mexico, Japan, France, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Spain. The tournament format is unique, with each player or nation represented by one of the game's characters.

Additionally, "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" includes online ranked battles and various tournament modes that enhance its potential for esports. However, there are some concerns about the game's balance, which might affect its suitability for high-level competitive play.

Are there in-game purchases or microtransactions in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

Yes, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero includes in-game purchases. Although the core gameplay allows players to earn Zeni, the in-game currency, through achievements and gameplay to unlock characters, outfits, and other items, there are options for microtransactions. These include optional purchases such as a $35 Season Pass and music packs. Additionally, a revised ESRB rating indicates the possibility of in-game purchases, which could affect the availability of new characters added post-launch. It's important for players to be aware of these optional purchases as they navigate the game.

Will there be a season pass, battle pass, or similar for "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

Yes, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero offers a Season Pass. The Season Pass includes access to three DLC packs, which feature over 20 new playable characters. Additionally, it provides bonuses such as early access to the DLC packs and the ability to summon Shenron for items like costumes or zeni.

What accessibility options does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" offer, such as subtitles, colorblind modes, or difficulty settings?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero offers a range of accessibility options to enhance the gaming experience for different players:

    • Subtitles: Available in multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Portuguese, and Japanese.
    • Difficulty Settings: Players can adjust the difficulty levels in various game modes. Options include Weak, Normal, Strong, and Super for most modes, while Episode Battles offer Easy and Normal settings. Difficulty can be changed at any time, providing flexibility for players.
    • Battle Assist Options: The game features a Battle Assist mode, which simplifies gameplay through various assists such as Combo Assist, Follow-Up Attack Assist, Dragon Dash Assist, Recovery Assist, and more. This can be customized to suit player preferences.
    • Control Settings: Players have the ability to rebind keys and invert camera controls to suit their play style.
    • Left-handed Mode: A specific mode designed to accommodate left-handed players.
    • Input Support: Provides audio cues for button presses, aiding players who may benefit from aural feedback.

These features are designed to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of players, catering to both casual and competitive audiences.

Can you customize controls for different input devices in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

Yes, in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero", you can customize controls for different input devices. The game supports full controller customization, allowing players to remap keys and change key bindings according to their preferences. This flexibility applies to both the Standard and Classic control schemes available in the game. Additionally, the game supports various input devices, including gamepads like the Xbox Gamepad, DualSense, and DualShock 4, as well as keyboard and mouse controls on *PC*. This ensures that players can tailor their control setup to suit their individual playstyle and comfort. 🎮

Which studio developed "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

"Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" was developed by Spike Chunsoft.

What is the track record of the studio behind "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" with their previous games?

The studio behind Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, Spike Chunsoft, has a notable track record in developing both anime-based and unique narrative-driven games. They are well-known for the Danganronpa series, which is a popular franchise distinct from the Dragon Ball universe, showcasing their versatility in game development.

Additionally, Spike Chunsoft has a strong history with the Dragon Ball franchise itself. They developed the original Budokai Tenkaichi series, which includes multiple installments released over the years. They also worked on the Raging Blast duology, further cementing their experience in creating Dragon Ball-themed games. This background indicates that the studio has significant experience in both the anime fighting game genre and the Dragon Ball franchise specifically.

What are the character customization options in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

In "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero", players have a wide range of character customization options to enhance both the appearance and abilities of their characters. Here are the key customization features available in the game:

    • Ability Items (Capsules): These can be equipped to modify a character's performance by increasing stats such as speed, damage dealt, and HP. Ability Capsules use a slot-based system where more powerful capsules occupy more slots.
    • Outfits: Players can change the character's outfit from multiple options available, including iconic looks from the Dragon Ball series. These changes are cosmetic and do not impact stats, but they can sometimes alter the move set.
    • Accessories: Characters can be equipped with accessories like Halos and Scouters, which are mostly cosmetic but can also enable characters to reproduce famous moves.
    • Emotes and Background Music: Players can customize emotes and background music for their characters, adding a personal touch to their entry and victory presentations.
    • Type and Character Abilities: Players can choose a character type that defines additional characteristics or abilities, allowing for further customization of play style.

These customization options are designed to enhance gameplay by allowing players to tailor their characters to fit their unique preferences and strategies.

How does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" incorporate the storyline from the Dragon Ball series?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero incorporates the storyline from the Dragon Ball series by allowing players to relive iconic moments and battles from both Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super. The game features a comprehensive story mode called "Episode Battles," where players can experience the story from the perspectives of eight major characters, including Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Piccolo, Frieza, Future Trunks, Goku Black, and Jiren.

In this mode, players can follow the original storylines and explore "What If" scenarios that offer alternate takes on the known events of the series. These scenarios allow players to alter the outcomes of battles, such as deciding whether to team up with certain characters or not, which can change the storyline's progression. This adds a layer of replayability and depth to the game, as players can experience different outcomes based on their choices.

The game covers all major sagas, including key arcs from both Dragon Ball Z, such as the Frieza Saga and the Cell Saga, and Dragon Ball Super, including the Tournament of Power. Additionally, players can unlock new encounters and relive their favorite moments through cinematic cutscenes experienced from the perspectives of these eight characters, making the gameplay a blend of nostalgia and new narratives.

What are the combat mechanics like in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

The combat mechanics in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" are designed to be fast-paced and dynamic, closely following the style of the anime series. Players engage in high-speed 3D battles that feature a variety of techniques and strategies. Key elements of the combat system include:

    • Beam Clashes and Struggles: Players can engage in dramatic beam clashes, reminiscent of iconic moments from the series, where timing and power management are crucial.
    • Rush Attacks and Combos: The game allows for chaining together rush attacks and combos, providing a fluid combat experience that rewards precision and timing.
    • Ultimate Attacks: These are powerful moves capable of massive destruction, often requiring strategic use of the Ki gauge and proper positioning to execute effectively.
    • Ki Management: Managing your Ki is essential for performing special moves and transformations. Players must balance offensive and defensive uses of Ki to maintain an advantage in battle.
    • Defensive Mechanics: The game includes advanced defensive techniques such as Z-Counters, Revenge Counters, and Perception Stances, which require precise timing to execute.
    • Environmental Interactions: Battles occur in destructible environments, adding an extra layer of strategy as players can use the terrain to their advantage.
    • Transformations and Fusions: Characters can transform or fuse during battles, significantly altering their abilities and strategies.
    • Movement and Evasion: High-speed movement options like Z-Burst Dash and Vanishing Assaults enable players to dodge attacks and reposition themselves swiftly.
    • Special Features: New mechanics like Sonic Sway and Impact Action enhance the combat dynamics, offering fresh ways to engage opponents.

Overall, "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" offers a rich and varied combat experience that captures the essence of the Dragon Ball series, providing both depth and accessibility for players of all skill levels.

Are there any Easter eggs or hidden features in "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero"?

Yes, "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" is packed with Easter eggs and hidden features that fans of the series will enjoy discovering. Here are some notable ones:

    • Special Finishers: Three characters—Super Saiyan Goku, Master Roshi, and Super Saiyan 3 Goku—can perform unique match-ending moves called Special Finishers, which reference specific moments from the franchise.
    • Hidden Techniques: Techniques like the Solar Flare have hidden features, such as being ineffective against characters wearing sunglasses, like Master Roshi and The Great Saiyaman.
    • Hidden Interactions and Animations: The game includes special animations and interactions, such as versus-specific intros, special grabs, and win poses that replicate iconic moments from the anime.
    • "What If" Scenarios: Known as Sparking Episodes, these provide alternate storylines and outcomes for characters, offering a twist on classic Dragon Ball stories.
    • Secret Chapters: Completing sagas can reveal secret chapters, adding more depth and hidden content to explore.

How does "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero" compare to other games in the Dragon Ball franchise?

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is a standout title in the Dragon Ball franchise, particularly for fans of the Budokai Tenkaichi series. It is often described as a spiritual successor and a rejuvenation of this beloved series, offering a modernized version of its classic gameplay. This game distinguishes itself by boasting the largest roster in the franchise, featuring 182 fighters, which surpasses previous titles like Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 and Dragon Ball FighterZ.

In terms of visuals, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is praised for its impressive graphics, utilizing Unreal Engine 5, which rivals the visual fidelity of Dragon Ball FighterZ. The game also introduces new story arcs from Dragon Ball Super, deviating from the more traditional Dragon Ball Z storylines that many previous games have recycled. This inclusion of fresh content, alongside classic "What If" scenarios, provides a unique narrative experience.

Gameplay-wise, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero takes the fast-paced combat of the Budokai Tenkaichi series to new heights, with high-speed 3D battles, destructible arenas, and classic combat moves. It offers a more casual, arena-style fighting experience compared to the more competitive and balanced gameplay of Dragon Ball FighterZ, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Overall, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is considered a near-perfect love letter to the franchise, combining nostalgia with modern enhancements, and is often described as the best Dragon Ball game in over a decade.

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