Does Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero Have a Story Mode?
If you’re a Dragon Ball fan, you’re probably wondering: Does Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero have a story mode? The answer is yes! But there’s a lot more to it than just that. Let’s dive deep into what this highly anticipated game has to offer and how its story mode stands out.
What is Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero?
For those new to the game, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is the latest entry in the Sparking! (Budokai Tenkaichi) series. It’s a 3D fighting game that brings together a massive roster of characters from across the Dragon Ball universe. With destructible environments, fast-paced combat, and cinematic battles, this game aims to be the most immersive Dragon Ball experience yet.
Is There a Story Mode in Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero?
Yes! Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero features a story mode called “Episode Battles.” Unlike a traditional linear campaign, this mode lets you experience iconic battles from multiple character perspectives.
What is “Episode Battles”?
Instead of following just Goku’s journey, the game allows players to experience the Dragon Ball story through the eyes of different heroes and villains. Each episode is dedicated to a specific character, showcasing their battles, emotions, and motivations.
Confirmed Playable Characters in Episode Battles
So far, here are some of the confirmed playable characters in the story mode:
- Goku – The Saiyan hero we all know and love.
- Vegeta – The proud prince of the Saiyans.
- Gohan – Goku’s son, known for his hidden potential.
- Piccolo – The wise and powerful Namekian warrior.
- Frieza – One of the most feared villains in Dragon Ball.
- Future Trunks – The time traveler with a sword and a mission.
- Goku Black – A sinister doppelgänger of Goku.
- Jiren – The strongest warrior from Universe 11.
Each character’s episode battle is designed to showcase their unique combat style and personal struggles.
How Does the Story Mode Work?
The Episode Battles mode takes a unique approach. Instead of playing through the entire Dragon Ball timeline in one go, you play through specific character-driven episodes. This means each episode is a self-contained narrative, letting you experience battles from different viewpoints.
Decision-Making & Alternate Endings
Another exciting feature is decision-making points within battles. Depending on the choices you make, some battles may have alternate outcomes. This adds replay value, as you can explore different “what-if” scenarios.
How Does It Compare to Past Dragon Ball Games?
Many previous Dragon Ball games featured story modes in different formats. Let’s compare:
| Game | Story Mode Format |
|---|---|
| Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 | Played from a single viewpoint (mostly Goku) |
| Dragon Ball FighterZ | Had a new original story with multiple chapters |
| Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot | Open-world RPG story experience |
| Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero | Character-based “Episode Battles” with multiple perspectives |
The Episode Battles format makes Sparking! Zero stand out by offering a fresh storytelling approach rather than retelling the same Goku-focused narrative.
How Difficult is the Story Mode?
From early impressions, it seems like Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s story mode will have varied difficulty levels. Some battles will be challenging, especially against boss-type enemies like Jiren and Broly. Players will need to master the combat mechanics to survive the toughest fights.
Key Challenges in Episode Battles
- Tough AI Opponents – Enemies adapt and counter attacks smartly.
- Transformations Mid-Battle – Some fights will include mid-fight power-ups.
- Environmental Hazards – Battles can cause destructive stage elements, affecting gameplay.
What Fans Are Saying About the Story Mode
Since the announcement, fans have had mixed reactions to the Episode Battles approach. Some love the multiple perspectives, while others hoped for a fully open-world experience like DBZ: Kakarot.
Pros:
- Different character perspectives keep things fresh.
- Cinematic combat sequences add to immersion.
- Decision-making mechanics allow for replayability.
Cons:
- Some fans prefer a full timeline experience instead of split episodes.
- Uncertainty over how long the story mode will be.
Will There Be DLC Expansions?
Given how Bandai Namco has handled past Dragon Ball games, it’s highly likely that Sparking! Zero will receive DLC expansions. These could include additional story episodes, introducing more characters and “What-If” scenarios.
Final Thoughts: Is “Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero” Worth It for Story Mode Fans?
If you love Dragon Ball games for their storytelling, then Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s story mode should be exciting. The Episode Battles format is different from past games, offering a unique way to relive key moments in the Dragon Ball saga.
Whether you’re playing as Goku, Vegeta, or even villains like Frieza and Goku Black, this game’s story mode promises thrilling, action-packed battles. While some fans might miss a single long campaign, the multiple character-driven episodes make it a fresh and exciting experience.
So, are you hyped for Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s story mode? Let us know in the comments!
