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83

MONSTER

Star Icon

Dragon Ball FighterZ

2018
GenresFantasy, Action, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer
AvailableJan 26, 2018
PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
DeveloperArc System Works
Overview

Dragon Ball FighterZ is born from what makes the Dragon Ball series so loved and famous: endless spectacular fights with its all-powerful fighters.

Score icon

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

73

TL;DR

Praised for originality and innovative structure, Dragon Ball FighterZ’s story mode falters with repetitive battles, filler content, and a shallow plot, dividing fan reactions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

73

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

6%

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

The story mode of Dragon Ball FighterZ receives praise for its originality, engagement, and integration with the franchise’s lore. Critics like GameSpot highlight its “significant” narrative that spans over a dozen hours, featuring classic characters and new vignettes, while Push Square notes its “fully fleshed out” nature with “loads of cutscenes” that cater to fans. The introduction of Android 21, designed by Akira Toriyama, is frequently praised for fitting well within the Dragon Ball universe, as noted by Hobby Consolas and Wccftech, who appreciate the character’s unique role and the game’s “brilliant character interactions.” Additionally, EGM commends the story mode as “engaging” and “well-integrated into gameplay,” with a fresh narrative involving new characters and twists. The structure of the story, including its 4th-wall-breaking elements and board-game-like progression (as mentioned by New Game Network and Hobby Consolas), is seen as innovative, offering a unique experience compared to traditional fighting games. However, several critics criticize the story mode for being repetitive, shallow, or overly lengthy. 3DJuegos calls it “disappointing” with a “simple and uninteresting plot,” while PlayStation LifeStyle and JeuxActu argue that the narrative lacks emotional depth and feels like “a game of chance.” The repetition of clone battles and filler content is a recurring issue, as highlighted by Multiplayer.it and XGN, who note the “repetitive battles” and “artificially prolonged” structure. Digital Trends and Critical Hit criticize the narrative for becoming “repetitive and lengthy,” with some reviewers like Ragequit.gr finding it “tedious” and only appealing to die-hard fans. The low difficulty and passive opponents in certain arcs (as pointed out by XGN) further detract from the experience, while Twinfinite and New York Daily News note the lack of canon content and “forgettable” moments that fail to resonate beyond fan service. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward acknowledging the story mode as a competent, if unremarkable, entry in the Dragon Ball franchise. While it offers an engaging narrative for fans with its original characters and references (as praised by GameSpot and Vgames), many feel it falls short of being groundbreaking or deeply immersive. The story serves as a functional tutorial for newcomers (Softpedia, PlayGround.ru) but risks feeling padded or repetitive for veterans (3DJuegos, XGN). Despite its flaws, the mode’s length, character interactions, and integration with gameplay (as noted by Push Square and EGM) ensure it remains a notable aspect of Dragon Ball FighterZ, even if it doesn’t fully satisfy all expectations.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Praised for originality and innovative structure, Dragon Ball FighterZ’s story mode falters with repetitive battles, filler content, and a shallow plot, dividing fan reactions.

90

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ delivers accessible, deep 3-on-3 combat with explosive combos, strategic tag-team mechanics, and a perfect balance for casual and competitive players—its minor flaws (like repetitive auto-combos) are overshadowed by its dynamic gameplay, earning praise as a genre standout.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

90

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

2%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The gameplay of Dragon Ball FighterZ is widely praised for its accessibility, depth, and engaging 3-on-3 tag-team mechanics. Multiple critics highlight its ability to cater to both casual and competitive players, with straightforward controls that make it easy to pick up. For instance, Gameblog.fr notes the game’s “simple commands” and “fast-paced battles,” while IGN Italia emphasizes its “fast-paced” nature requiring quick reflexes. The combo system is another standout feature, with God is a Geek praising its “powerful combos” and tools like vanish and super dash that encourage aggressive play. Critics like GameSpot and TheXboxHub commend the balance between simplicity and complexity, noting that while the mechanics are approachable for newcomers, they offer enough depth to challenge veterans. The tag-team dynamics, including character swaps and assist attacks, add strategic layers, as highlighted by 3DJuegos and Attack of the Fanboy, who compare it favorably to classics like Marvel vs. Capcom. Despite its strengths, some critics point to minor flaws that could detract from the experience. GameCritics notes that auto-combos might make matches feel “rote” at lower skill levels, while New Game Network mentions that “some mechanics are poorly explained and can be frustrating.” Twinfinite and GameSpot also highlight online connectivity issues and a perceived simplicity in design that could frustrate seasoned players. Additionally, Press Start Australia and Hobby Consolas acknowledge that mastering advanced techniques like counters and character switching requires dedication, which might feel overwhelming for some. While these critiques are valid, they often come with caveats—such as GameStar’s observation about “character similarities” being more of a visual concern than a gameplay flaw. Overall, the negatives are seen as minor trade-offs rather than deal-breakers. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Dragon Ball FighterZ successfully blends accessibility and depth. IGN Spain calls it “one of the best of the year,” while GameInformers and Slant Magazine praise its “rewarding combat system” and “versatile fighting mechanics.” Even critics who pointed out flaws, like Twinfinite and GameCritics, acknowledge that the game’s strengths—such as its dynamic tag-team battles and combo-driven gameplay—make it a standout entry in the genre. The 3v3 format, simplified controls, and emphasis on character synergy are frequently cited as key innovations that appeal to a broad audience. While no game is perfect, the critical reception underscores Dragon Ball FighterZ as a well-rounded, engaging experience that balances fun for casual players with the complexity needed for competitive play.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Dragon Ball FighterZ delivers accessible, deep 3-on-3 combat with explosive combos, strategic tag-team mechanics, and a perfect balance for casual and competitive players—its minor flaws (like repetitive auto-combos) are overshadowed by its dynamic gameplay, earning praise as a genre standout.

97

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a visual masterwork that captures the anime’s essence with stunning cel-shaded art, fluid 2.5D combat, and cinematic flair, earning universal praise as a benchmark for anime-inspired games—its minor flaws in animation and resolution pale next to its breathtaking presentation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

97

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

3%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of critics universally praise Dragon Ball FighterZ for its exceptional graphics and visual design, emphasizing its faithful recreation of the anime’s iconic aesthetic. The cel-shaded art style is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with reviewers like IGN Spain noting that the visuals are “almost identical to other versions,” while GameCritics commends the “near-perfect replication of Akira Toriyama’s art style.” The game’s ability to blend 3D models with 2D animation is celebrated as a technical marvel, with Video Chums describing characters as “fluidly animated and detailed that they come across as 2D sprites,” and The Digital Fix stating it “looks more like the anime than is reasonable.” Vibrant colors, dynamic camera angles, and cinematic special effects further enhance the experience, with Push Square praising the “super crisp character models” on PS5 and GameSpot noting how 3D models “look like 2D cel animation” with “vibrant colors and effects.” The game’s ability to capture the chaotic energy of Dragon Ball battles is repeatedly lauded, making it a visual triumph for fans of the franchise. While the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive, some critics point to minor shortcomings. 3DJuegos critiques the “poor animations and lack of detail” in story mode cutscenes, while Digitally Downloaded notes that backgrounds are “less impressive” compared to character models. Additionally, Gameblog.fr mentions that the Nintendo Switch version suffers from “minor aliasing and lower resolution” compared to PS4 and Xbox One, though it still runs smoothly at 60 FPS. GameCritics also observes that some characters “look too similar due to their clothing,” which could confuse players during battles. These critiques are largely seen as minor flaws in an otherwise polished product, with many acknowledging that the game’s visual strengths far outweigh its technical limitations. The consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ represents a masterful achievement in visual design, seamlessly translating the anime’s essence into a 3D fighting game. Despite platform-specific variations in resolution and some isolated issues with animations or backgrounds, the overwhelming majority of reviews highlight its “stunning” presentation, with IGN, GameSpot, and The Digital Fix all praising its ability to feel like an interactive cartoon. The game’s blend of 2.5D combat, cel-shading, and dynamic camera work is seen as a benchmark for anime-inspired games, with Eurogamer Italy noting the “meticulous attention to detail” powered by Unreal Engine 4. For fans of the series, Dragon Ball FighterZ is not just a game but a visual love letter to the franchise, earning it near-unanimous acclaim as a masterpiece of artistic and technical execution.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a visual masterwork that captures the anime’s essence with stunning cel-shaded art, fluid 2.5D combat, and cinematic flair, earning universal praise as a benchmark for anime-inspired games—its minor flaws in animation and resolution pale next to its breathtaking presentation.

82

TL;DR

Critics praised Dragon Ball FighterZ's immersive audio, faithful adaptation, and iconic sound effects, with highlights on its rock-metal combat soundtrack, authentic voice acting, and nostalgic anime cues. However, the soundtrack faced backlash for overreliance on rock, lack of originality, inconsistent quality, and DLC-dependent content. While hailed as a strong fan-pleaser, it fell short of innovation, balancing nostalgia with mixed musical ambition.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

82

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The Sound Design and Music of Dragon Ball FighterZ received generally positive feedback from critics, with many praising its immersive audio elements and faithful adaptation of the Dragon Ball universe. Reviewers like Eurogamer Italy highlighted the rock-metal soundtrack that enhances combat, while GameSpot and TheXboxHub noted the immersive sound design, emphasizing characters' shouts during battles to amplify excitement. The inclusion of original Japanese voice actors was a standout feature, with Hobby Consolas and PlayStation Universe commending how the audio complements intense moments and maintains authenticity. Additionally, Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr appreciated the availability of downloadable music and the dynamic interplay between sound effects and action, which many felt elevated the gameplay experience. The game’s ability to replicate iconic anime sound effects and battle cries was frequently praised, with Xbox Tavern and ZTGD noting how these elements immerse players in the Dragon Ball world. However, several critics pointed out shortcomings in the soundtrack's originality and consistency. JeuxActu criticized the music for lacking melody and variety, relying heavily on rock elements that may not appeal to all audiences. Gameblog.fr noted the absence of original themes compared to other fighting games like Guilty Gear or Blazblue, calling the soundtrack inconsistent in quality. Some reviewers, such as 3DJuegos, felt the soundtrack fell short of the impact of Kenji Yamamoto’s previous works, while Atomix mentioned a lack of standout tracks despite effective sound effects. Additionally, concerns about DLC requirements for full musical content were raised by Generación Xbox and Nintenderos, who noted that certain anime music was only accessible via additional purchases. These critiques suggest that while the audio design was functional and nostalgic, it occasionally failed to innovate or deliver a cohesive auditory experience. Overall, critics largely agreed that Dragon Ball FighterZ’s Sound Design and Music successfully captured the essence of the Dragon Ball series, particularly through its authentic voice acting and iconic sound effects. The Digital Fix and The Games Machine emphasized how the audio enhanced immersion and faithfulness to the source material, while GameOver.gr and PlayStation Country highlighted the value of Japanese voice cast contributions. However, the soundtrack’s reliance on rock-heavy compositions and occasional lack of originality sparked mixed reactions. Despite these criticisms, the game’s audio elements were seen as a strong asset for fans, with many praising its ability to evoke nostalgia while delivering an engaging combat experience. The consensus leaned toward appreciation for the effort to replicate the anime’s auditory identity, even if it didn’t fully surpass expectations in terms of musical innovation.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praised Dragon Ball FighterZ's immersive audio, faithful adaptation, and iconic sound effects, with highlights on its rock-metal combat soundtrack, authentic voice acting, and nostalgic anime cues. However, the soundtrack faced backlash for overreliance on rock, lack of originality, inconsistent quality, and DLC-dependent content. While hailed as a strong fan-pleaser, it fell short of innovation, balancing nostalgia with mixed musical ambition.

84

TL;DR

Critics hailed Dragon Ball FighterZ's voice acting as a triumph, praising its authenticity, emotional depth, and faithful adaptation of the anime’s humor and charm. Japanese and English dubs were universally lauded for their energy, with standout performances from current Dragon Ball Super cast members. While minor gripes—like subtitle mismatches and occasional over-the-top delivery—surfaced, they paled next to the overwhelming praise for its immersive storytelling and cultural resonance. The dual-language options and iconic voice work solidified it as a defining pillar of the game’s success.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

84

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of critics praised the voice acting in Dragon Ball FighterZ as a standout feature, emphasizing its authenticity and immersive quality. Multiple reviewers highlighted the inclusion of original Japanese voices alongside English dubs, which many felt enhanced the game’s connection to the source material. For instance, 3DJuegos and Eurogamer Italy noted that the Japanese voice actors delivered excellent performances, while Game Informer and The Digital Fix commended the cast for capturing the essence of the characters, making the story mode feel faithful to the anime’s humor and charm. Softpedia even described the voice acting as “ridiculously good,” praising its ability to blend humor with engaging storytelling. The option to switch between languages was frequently cited as a positive, with GameSpot and Vandal noting that both versions were well-executed and added to the overall experience. Critics like GamingTrend and Vgames also emphasized how the use of current Dragon Ball Super voice actors lent authenticity to the characters, making the game feel like a natural extension of the series. While the general sentiment was overwhelmingly positive, some critics pointed out minor flaws. TheSixthAxis criticized the lack of polish in subtitles matching the voices, which could disrupt immersion for some players. PLAY! Zine noted that occasional over-exaggeration in performances occasionally detracted from the experience, though this was a rare critique. Additionally, LevelUp mentioned the absence of a Latin Spanish dub as a disappointment for certain fans, and Ragequit.gr described the voice acting as “merely functional,” suggesting it lacked the emotional depth some might expect. These critiques were relatively isolated, with most reviewers focusing on the strengths of the vocal performances rather than their shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics was that Dragon Ball FighterZ’s voice acting was a major strength, effectively bridging the gap between the game and its anime roots. The availability of both Japanese and English options catered to diverse player preferences, with many emphasizing how the original voices added authenticity and emotional resonance. Gameblog.fr and PlayStation Universe highlighted how the vocal performances brought iconic scenes to life, while Worth Playing and Cubed3 praised their ability to enhance character personalities and immersion. Despite a few minor criticisms, the overwhelming majority of reviews celebrated the voice acting as a key factor in the game’s success, reinforcing its appeal to fans of the Dragon Ball franchise. The combination of high-quality performances and language flexibility solidified it as a defining aspect of the game’s experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics hailed Dragon Ball FighterZ's voice acting as a triumph, praising its authenticity, emotional depth, and faithful adaptation of the anime’s humor and charm. Japanese and English dubs were universally lauded for their energy, with standout performances from current Dragon Ball Super cast members. While minor gripes—like subtitle mismatches and occasional over-the-top delivery—surfaced, they paled next to the overwhelming praise for its immersive storytelling and cultural resonance. The dual-language options and iconic voice work solidified it as a defining pillar of the game’s success.

73

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ delivers solid core mechanics and optimization across platforms, but technical hiccups—like spotty online play, lag, and server instability—hurt its polish. PC and PS4/PS5 shine with smooth netcode and visuals, while Switch and Xbox One struggle with connectivity and load times. Despite post-launch fixes, online infrastructure remains a critical flaw, leaving the game's technical foundation uneven but its combat intact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

73

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The technical performance of Dragon Ball FighterZ varies across platforms, with several positives noted by critics. On PC, GameStar praised the PC port as "exceptional," highlighting smooth performance on moderate hardware, sharp visuals, and precise controls. For PS4, Push Square and Vandal commended the reliable netcode and efficient matchmaking, while Push Square (on PS5) acknowledged improved rollback netcode despite some custom lobby issues. The Nintendo Switch version received praise for its stable 60FPS performance (Pocket Gamer UK, Nintenderos), with Impulsegamer noting no input lag or resolution drops. On Xbox One, SomosXbox and Generación Xbox highlighted smooth online play post-launch, though IGN noted varying smoothness in matches. Overall, the game’s core mechanics and optimization were consistently praised across platforms, with critics like GameStar (PC) and Push Square (PS4/PS5) emphasizing robust technical foundations. However, several platform-specific negatives emerged. On PC, PC Gamer criticized spotty online connectivity and disconnections, while AusGamers highlighted stability issues in Australia due to poor internet. For PS4, multiple critics like GameCritics (long matchmaking delays), New Game Network (server problems), and InsideGamer.nl (unstable servers) reported persistent online issues, though PlayStation Country noted minor launch hiccups that were later resolved. The Switch faced load time complaints (COGconnected) and occasional lag if not using a wired connection (Pocket Gamer UK), while Xbox One saw concerns about beta-era connectivity (MondoXbox) and lag in online matches (Gamers’ Temple). Critics like GameCritics (PS4) and GRYOnline.pl (PS4) also cited matchmaking inefficiencies, though some improvements were noted over time. These issues often overshadowed the game’s technical strengths for players on affected platforms. Despite platform-specific challenges, the overall consensus among critics was that Dragon Ball FighterZ delivered strong technical performance with notable improvements post-launch. While PS4 and PC versions received more balanced reviews—with GameStar (PC) and Push Square (PS4/PS5) praising netcode and optimization—the Switch and Xbox One faced more mixed feedback, particularly around online stability. Critics like Vandal (PS4) and Gameblog.fr (PS4) highlighted smooth gameplay during matches, but issues with matchmaking, server stability, and connectivity remained persistent concerns. The game’s technical foundation was generally robust, though its online infrastructure required ongoing refinement across all platforms. Overall, the mixed reception reflected a game that prioritized core mechanics over flawless technical execution, leaving room for future patches to address lingering issues.

TL;DR

technical performance

Dragon Ball FighterZ delivers solid core mechanics and optimization across platforms, but technical hiccups—like spotty online play, lag, and server instability—hurt its polish. PC and PS4/PS5 shine with smooth netcode and visuals, while Switch and Xbox One struggle with connectivity and load times. Despite post-launch fixes, online infrastructure remains a critical flaw, leaving the game's technical foundation uneven but its combat intact.

81

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ offers stellar replay value through dynamic Arcade Mode, deep multiplayer, and character variety, but repetitive storylines, broken online systems, and DLC roadblocks undermine long-term appeal, leaving its longevity tied to fixes and community retention.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

81

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The majority of reviewers highlight Dragon Ball FighterZ’s strong replay value through its diverse gameplay modes and content variety. Multiple critics, including IGN and Nintendo Life, praise the game’s Arcade Mode for its challenging difficulty and unique progression system, which encourages players to improve their skills repeatedly. Cheat Code Central and Cubed3 note that side content like character unlocks, events, and customization options provide substantial engagement beyond the main story. Additionally, Hobby Consolas and LevelUp emphasize the game’s robust multiplayer components, including local and online play, which cater to both casual and competitive players. The inclusion of a wide roster of characters, as mentioned by We Got This Covered, further enhances replayability, while GameCritics acknowledges the depth for advanced players despite issues with online matchmaking. These elements collectively create a foundation for long-term engagement. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks that may limit replay value. The repetitive nature of the story mode is frequently criticized, with GameSpot (Xbox One and Switch) and GamesRadar+ noting that its lackluster structure could deter players from revisiting it often. PC Gamer and DarkStation highlight a disconnect between the accessible story modes and the complex competitive gameplay, creating an uneven experience. Online play also faces challenges: GameCritics points to broken matchmaking, while Push Square (PS5) and SpazioGames express concerns about dwindling player populations and low match availability. Additionally, Hobby Consolas (Switch) and Cubed3 mention locked characters behind DLC or limited starting rosters, which might frustrate players seeking immediate variety. These issues suggest that while the game offers depth, its longevity hinges on addressing these structural gaps. Overall, the consensus among critics is cautiously optimistic about Dragon Ball FighterZ’s replay value, recognizing its strengths while acknowledging its flaws. IGN, Nintendo Life, and LevelUp emphasize the game’s potential for long-term engagement through its modes, character variety, and competitive depth, even as GameSpot and GamesRadar+ caution against the story mode’s repetition. The divide between positive aspects like Arcade Mode and online features versus concerns about matchmaking and content balance reflects a game that appeals to dedicated fans but may struggle with broader retention. While some critics, such as Critical Hit and Impulsegamer, argue that the challenge and progression systems motivate repeated play, others like Push Square (PS4) and DarkStation suggest that sustained interest depends on future updates and community vitality. Ultimately, the game’s replay value is seen as strong but conditional on addressing its shortcomings.

TL;DR

replay value

Dragon Ball FighterZ offers stellar replay value through dynamic Arcade Mode, deep multiplayer, and character variety, but repetitive storylines, broken online systems, and DLC roadblocks undermine long-term appeal, leaving its longevity tied to fixes and community retention.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

83

MONSTER

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OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

83

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

6%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

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

The overall reception of Dragon Ball FighterZ is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its vibrant visuals, accessible yet deep gameplay, and faithful adaptation of the Dragon Ball franchise. Multiple reviewers highlighted its stunning cel-shaded graphics, with IGN Italia calling it “one of the best-looking cel-shaded games” and GameSpew noting its “stunning visuals” and “frenzied gameplay.” The game’s mechanics were lauded for balancing accessibility for newcomers and depth for veterans, as noted by Twinfinite, GameSpot, and Nintendo Life. Critics like Impulsegamer and PC Gamer celebrated it as a standout fighting game, with the former calling it “potentially one of the best fighting games ever made” and the latter hailing it as the “best game in the Dragon Ball licence.” The multiplayer experience was consistently praised, with Gamer.no emphasizing its enjoyment in competitive play and Push Square dubbing it “the best anime fighting game ever made.” Despite these accolades, several critics pointed to notable flaws. The single-player story mode was frequently criticized as repetitive or underdeveloped, with Gamer.no calling it “lackluster” and Polygon describing its narrative as “confusing.” Online connectivity issues also emerged as a recurring concern, with Twinfinite noting “online connectivity issues” and Trusted Reviews mentioning “online stability” problems. Additionally, some reviewers felt the character roster was limited (PlaySense) or that the game’s pacing in story mode felt sluggish (Easy Allies). While JeuxActu and Polygon acknowledged these shortcomings, they framed them as minor drawbacks compared to the game’s strengths. The critique of the story mode’s depth was echoed by Cubed3, which called it “repetitive,” and SomosXbox, which noted “shortcomings in the campaign.” The consensus among critics is that Dragon Ball FighterZ is a highly successful entry in both the fighting game genre and the Dragon Ball franchise, with its positives significantly outweighing its flaws. Overwhelmingly, reviewers emphasized its ability to appeal to fans and newcomers alike, as highlighted by GameOver.gr, InsideGamer.nl, and We Got This Covered. Even critics who pointed out issues, such as Impulsegamer (who noted “control depth” concerns) or 3DJuegos (who critiqued the story mode), acknowledged its overall quality. The game’s blend of fast-paced combat, polished presentation, and nostalgic fan service solidified its reputation as a must-play for fighting game enthusiasts. As Critical Hit put it, it’s “a love letter to the franchise,” while Nintendo World Report called it “one of the finest fighters made in the last couple of years.” Despite minor imperfections, the critical acclaim underscores its status as a landmark title in the genre.

TL;DR

Dragon Ball FighterZ earns universal acclaim for its vibrant cel-shaded visuals, deep yet accessible combat, and faithful franchise homage, hailed as one of the best fighting games ever made. While its repetitive story mode and online glitches draw criticism, these flaws are overshadowed by its thrilling multiplayer, nostalgic fan service, and polished presentation—making it a must-play triumph for fans and newcomers alike.

83

MONSTER

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Reviews

203 reviews found

98

Gamers' Temple

Nintendo Switch

Dec 17, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ exceeds expectations, delivering a fantastic experience for fans and newcomers alike, with impressive visuals, engaging gameplay, and a solid story mode.

Read full review

Full review

97

Gamers' Temple

PlayStation 4

Feb 20, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ exceeds expectations, delivering a fantastic experience for fans and newcomers alike, with high-quality visuals and engaging gameplay.

Read full review

Full review

96

Cheat Code Central

Xbox One

Jan 23, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a highly anticipated game that lives up to the hype. It offers a satisfying gameplay experience with its teaching tools, enjoyable story mode, and visually stunning graphics. It is recommended for both Dragon Ball fans and fighting game enthusiasts.


95

CGMagazine

PlayStation 4

Jan 23, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a fantastic experience that a wide audience of players are sure to enjoy, with simple gameplay and deep mechanics.


95

GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Feb 5, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a near-perfect fighting game that caters to both casual and veteran players, with stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and enough content to satisfy any Dragon Ball fan.

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Full review

95

Everyeye.it

PlayStation 4

Jan 22, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a well-crafted fighting game that respects the source material, suitable for all types of players, despite some online stability concerns.

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Full review

94

Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Jan 22, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is an outstanding game that effortlessly captures the essence of the popular anime. With excellent visuals, engaging gameplay, and a captivating story mode, it is a strong contender for fighting game of the year.

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Full review

93

MondoXbox

Xbox One

Jan 26, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is described as a passionate tribute to the franchise, combining solid gameplay, impressive visuals, and a compelling story, making it one of the best Dragon Ball games in recent years.

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Full review

93

Game Informer

PlayStation 4

Jan 26, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ successfully blends accessibility with depth, providing an engaging fighting experience that appeals to both casual players and fans of the franchise.


93

Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Jan 28, 2018

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is hailed as the best Dragon Ball game ever, successfully capturing the essence of the series while being accessible yet challenging for fighting game fans.

Read full review

Full review
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