DRAGON BALL fans, rejoice! After a staggering 15-year gap, the highly anticipated DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO has finally arrived, and it’s already breaking records. Within a mere 24 hours of its release, Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe confirmed that the title has surpassed an incredible 3 million units sold worldwide. That’s right—three million in a single day.
The game marks the explosive return of the Budokai Tenkaichi series, a staple in the fighting game landscape ever since its debut on the PlayStation 2. Fans have been begging for a new entry for years and, given these numbers, it’s clear Bandai Namco didn’t disappoint. Sparking! ZERO has struck a powerful chord with both long-time series veterans and newcomers alike, delivering the fast-paced action, colossal battles, and vibrant visuals the franchise is known for.
A Return to Roots (With Some Modern Twists)
What’s most impressive about Sparking! ZERO isn’t just the nostalgia. The developers have taken full advantage of modern technology to push the series forward while maintaining the chaotic, free-roaming battles that made Budokai Tenkaichi such a fan favorite. With destructible environments, massive character rosters, and jaw-dropping transformations that add unique layers to each fight, this game has everything you’d want from a Dragon Ball title—and more.
With over 180 playable characters, including several who make their debut in Sparking! ZERO, players can feel the raw power of their favorite Super Saiyan or Namekian warrior. Whether you’re dishing out Kamehameha waves with Goku or letting Frieza unleash his devastating Death Ball, every battle feels intense and true to the anime’s dynamic style.
And let’s talk about transformations for a moment, because WOW. Switching from base form to Super Saiyan—or even further beyond—isn’t just a visual change. The strategy shifts, keeping players on their toes as their characters gain new abilities, movement speeds, and attack strength. There’s nothing quite like watching your opponent’s heart sink when you hit that next transformation tier.
Community Hype Is Real
The Dragon Ball community is buzzing across social media. From YouTube to Twitter, fans are sharing insane matchups, hilarious moments, and jaw-dropping displays of skill. The hashtags #SparkingZero and #BudokaiTenkaichi4 have been lighting up Twitter since launch, with streamers flocking to Twitch to broadcast their matches (or just scream in excitement upon landing a perfect combo). If you’re looking for tips or want to see some intense battles, Twitch is a great place to start.
The official Dragon Ball game accounts on Twitter, YouTube, and are also going wild with activity, sharing fan art, clips, and game tips to keep the excitement alive.
Is It Worth the Hype?
In a word, yes. The game doesn’t just ride on nostalgia; it builds on the solid foundation laid by its predecessors. The depth this game offers isn’t something you’re going to master overnight. If you’re just jumping in, here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:
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Timing Is Everything – While button mashing can get you through some early fights, mastering the timing of your combos and counters is crucial. Watch for openings in your opponent’s attack and be ready to punish.
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Transformations Matter – Rising through the ranks of Saiyan forms is more than a power boost. Pay attention to how each transformation changes your character’s fighting style and grid your strategies accordingly.
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Play the Range Game – Not all characters have the same reach. Learning the balance between close combat and ranged energy attacks is essential. Characters like Piccolo are better suited for long-range ki blasts, while others like Vegeta thrive in-your-face.
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Environment Destruction – Use the destructible environments to your advantage. Smash your opponents through mountains, buildings, or islands, and gain the edge when the battle field itself becomes a weapon.
Conclusion
In just 24 hours, DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO has proven it’s a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a battle-hardened Budokai Tenkaichi veteran or a newcomer eager to test your might, there’s something here for every type of player. With intuitive gameplay, a massive selection of characters, and stunning visuals, it’s no surprise this game has captivated millions in such a short time. It’s a love letter to the Dragon Ball franchise—one that promises to keep players engaged for a long time.
If you’re thinking about joining the hype, there’s no better time. Check it out on Steam and prepare yourself for some of the most electrifying battles this franchise has ever delivered!
