DRAGON BALL FighterZ

"DRAGON BALL FighterZ" is a fighting game centered around the beloved characters from the Dragon Ball anime and manga series. The combat system is well-crafted and effectively captures the feel of anime battles. Players can choose from a roster of 24 characters (and more with DLC) and utilize various special moves and combos to defeat opponents. One of the standout features is the "chain" system, which allows players to execute moves in a seamless manner. Additionally, a feature called "Sparking Blast" enables players to gain a power boost in critical situations. The game also offers various modes, including story, training, and online, adding significant variety to the gameplay experience. However, the learning curve for new players may feel daunting due to the complexity of combos and special moves.

The graphics in "DRAGON BALL FighterZ" are notably vibrant and eye-catching. The game is designed in a 2.5D style, successfully showcasing the colorful and dynamic animations of the characters. Smooth frame rates and various environmental details provide a visually stunning experience. However, despite running on the PS5, the game does not seem to make the most of the console's hardware capabilities and graphics enhancements. The absence of ray tracing and significant graphical upgrades on the PS5 may leave players feeling like they are playing an older title.

The audio design and music in "DRAGON BALL FighterZ" are also well-executed. The character voices and their special moves resonate well with the anime's spirit, creating a more immersive experience during battles. However, the background music can become repetitive at times and may detract from the game's overall appeal. Additionally, in online mode, voice chat quality may be subpar, potentially disrupting the players' experience.

The narrative of "DRAGON BALL FighterZ" is somewhat surface-level and lacks depth. The story revolves around various battles and the emergence of a new character named "Android 21." While the initial premise is intriguing, it quickly becomes predictable and repetitive. The lack of depth in the storytelling and characters is evident, failing to fully engage players in the narrative.

Controls in "DRAGON BALL FighterZ" are well-designed and responsive. However, the game does not fully utilize the PS5's DualSense controller features like advanced haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. Players can easily jump into battles with straightforward controls, but for those with less experience, mastering specific moves and combos may take time.

Compared to other fighting games like "Mortal Kombat 11" or "Guilty Gear Strive," "DRAGON BALL FighterZ" excels in visual design and character aesthetics. However, it falls short in terms of narrative depth and combat mechanics. The nostalgic feel and visual appeal may attract long-time Dragon Ball fans, but for newcomers, there are other titles that may offer higher quality.

In conclusion, "DRAGON BALL FighterZ" provides an entertaining and engaging experience for Dragon Ball fans and fighting game enthusiasts. However, as an older title released in 2018, it has not fully capitalized on the capabilities of the PS5. The attractive graphics and solid audio, coupled with an accessible combat system, are strong points, but the shallow story and missed opportunities for modern features hinder its potential to fully captivate players. For serious fans of the franchise, this game is worth experiencing, but those seeking a deep and innovative fighting game may find better options available in the market.