Dragon Ball fans have eagerly awaited a new entry in the Budokai Tenkaichi series. The wait is over with Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO. This fighting game brings back the series’ signature 3D combat and large roster of characters.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 11, 2024. Bandai Namco and Spike Chunsoft have focused on current-gen platforms to push the game’s visuals and performance. Older consoles like PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch won’t get versions due to technical limits.
The game boasts over 180 fighters from across Dragon Ball Z, Super, GT, and the movies. Players can expect authentic moves and dynamic battle environments. Pre-orders are open now, with bonuses like exclusive characters and early access for eager fans.
Powering Up Across Platforms: Where to Experience Sparking Zero
Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is set to unleash its explosive action on multiple platforms, bringing the Saiyan battles to a wide range of players. The game will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. This multi-platform approach ensures that fans can experience the game on their preferred system, whether they prefer the power of next-gen consoles or the flexibility of PC gaming.
Next-Gen Saiyan Brawls: PS5 and Xbox Series X|S
On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, players can expect stunning visuals and smooth performance. Sparking Zero takes advantage of the enhanced hardware to deliver detailed character models, vibrant environments, and explosive special effects. The game targets a frame rate of 60 frames per second, ensuring fluid combat and responsive controls. The PS5 version utilizes the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback features, allowing players to feel the impact of every punch, kick, and energy blast. On Xbox Series X, players can enjoy enhanced visuals with higher resolutions and improved textures.
PC Power Unleashed: Steam Version
The PC version of Sparking Zero offers flexibility and customization options. Players can tailor the graphics settings to match their hardware, ensuring optimal performance on a variety of systems. The game supports higher resolutions and frame rates, allowing for an even smoother experience on powerful PCs. Keyboard and mouse controls are fully supported, alongside various gamepads. The Steam version also benefits from the platform’s features, such as achievements, trading cards, and cloud saves.
Cross-Platform Possibilities?
While cross-platform play is a hot topic in gaming, Bandai Namco has not yet confirmed whether Sparking Zero will support it. However, considering the growing trend of cross-play in fighting games, there’s a possibility that it could be implemented in a future update. This would allow players on different platforms to compete against each other, expanding the online community and creating more opportunities for exciting matches.
Platform Comparison
| Feature | PlayStation 5 | Xbox Series X|S | PC (Steam) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Up to 4K | Up to 4K | Up to 8K (hardware dependent) |
| Frame Rate | 60 FPS | 60 FPS | Up to 120 FPS (hardware dependent) |
| Haptic Feedback | Yes (DualSense) | No | No |
| Graphics Settings | Limited | Limited | Customizable |
| Cross-Play | Not At Launch | Not At Launch | Not At Launch |
Why Sparking Zero Skips Older Platforms
While Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is set to energize PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, some fans might be wondering about its absence on older platforms. Here’s a breakdown of why PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch won’t be hosting this Saiyan showdown.
PS4 and Xbox One: A Generational Shift
The decision to skip PS4 and Xbox One likely boils down to a focus on next-gen capabilities. Sparking Zero aims to push the boundaries of visual fidelity and gameplay performance. The older consoles might struggle to handle the game’s demanding graphics, large-scale environments, and complex character models. By focusing on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, the developers can fully utilize the enhanced hardware and deliver a truly next-gen Dragon Ball experience without compromising on their vision.
Nintendo Switch: Power and Performance Considerations
The Nintendo Switch, while a popular and versatile platform, has its limitations in terms of raw power. Sparking Zero’s ambitious scope and graphical fidelity might be challenging to achieve on the Switch without significant compromises. The developers might have decided to prioritize the platforms where they can deliver the optimal experience without sacrificing visual quality or performance. Additionally, the Switch’s focus on portability might not align with Sparking Zero’s emphasis on high-fidelity graphics and demanding gameplay mechanics.
Key Takeaways
- Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO releases October 11, 2024 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
- The game features 3D combat with over 180 characters from Dragon Ball series
- Pre-orders are available with bonuses like exclusive fighters and early access
Game Overview
Dragon Ball Sparking! ZERO is a thrilling fighting game that brings the iconic anime series to life. It features intense 3D battles, a huge roster of characters, and stunning visuals that capture the essence of Dragon Ball.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The game builds on the Budokai Tenkaichi series’ combat system. Players can fly freely in 3D arenas and use a wide range of moves. These include rush attacks, beam clashes, and ultimate attacks. The fighting is fast-paced and true to the anime.
Battles take place in destructible environments. Players can smash opponents through mountains or blast craters in the ground. This adds a layer of strategy to fights. The game also includes signature Dragon Ball elements like transformations and power-ups.
Characters and Abilities
Sparking! ZERO boasts a massive roster of playable fighters from across the Dragon Ball universe. Fan favorites like Goku, Vegeta, and Frieza are joined by lesser-known characters. Each fighter has their own unique moves and abilities.
Saiyans can transform into various Super Saiyan forms. Other races have their own special forms too. Characters can use iconic techniques like the Kamehameha or Special Beam Cannon. The game aims to include every major character from Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super.
Visuals and Art Design
The graphics in Sparking! ZERO are a big step up from past games. Characters look like they’ve jumped straight out of the anime. Special effects for energy blasts and auras are bright and flashy.
Arenas are highly detailed and full of life. They change as battles go on, with craters forming and structures crumbling. The art style stays true to Akira Toriyama’s designs while adding modern polish.
Animations are smooth and fluid, capturing the speed and power of Dragon Ball fights. From facial expressions to fighting stances, every detail brings the characters to life.
FAQs
What consoles will Dragon Ball Sparking Zero be on?
Dragon Ball Sparking Zero is confirmed for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
Can You Get Dragon Ball Sparking Zero On PS4?
No, the game will not be released on PlayStation 4. The PS4 lacks the necessary hardware requirements to play the game so you would need to play on a PS5 / PS5 Pro.
Can You Get Dragon Ball Sparking Zero On Xbox One?
No, the game will not be released on Xbox One. The hardware for Xbox One isn’t powerful enough to run the game and the developers opted to go for the modern generation Xbox Series.
Can You Get Dragon Ball Sparking Zero On Nintendo Switch?
No, the game will not be released on Nintendo Switch. This decision likely stems from the developers’ focus on maximizing the game’s potential on the latest hardware, ensuring high-fidelity graphics and smooth performance that might be challenging to achieve on older platforms.
Is Sparking Zero going to be cross platform?
As of now, Bandai Namco has not confirmed whether Dragon Ball Sparking Zero will support cross-platform play. However, given the rising trend of cross-play in fighting games, it’s possible that it could be implemented in a future update. This would allow players on different platforms (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) to compete against each other, fostering a larger online community and more diverse matches.
Is Dragon Ball Sparking Zero on Gamepass?
There’s no official word yet on whether Dragon Ball Sparking Zero will be available on Xbox Gamepass. Announcements regarding Gamepass inclusion often come closer to a game’s release date or even post-launch. Keep an eye on official announcements from Bandai Namco or Xbox for any updates on Gamepass availability.
