Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi is a premium action game from BANDAI NAMCO. As the next installment in the long-running Budokai Tenkaichi boasts next-generation graphics while retaining most of the key features from its predecessors. In this fighting entry, you get to enjoy an even larger roster of characters from Dragon Ball Z, the hit manga series from Akira Toriyama.

Aside from improved texture detail and reworked gameplay graphics, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi is expected to put the characters in a new power-scaling perspective. Start reviewing with Dragon Ball Z Budokai X or Dragon Ball Z Tenkaichi Tag 2.

New forms and new enemies

The first thing to notice with Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi is improved graphics. Although it retains the same anime art style that has defined the entire Budokai franchise, the level of detail has definitely increased. Additionally, it supports modern display devices, with a variety of display resolutions up to 4K. Similarly, this game features a mix of new and repurposed tracks, keeping familiarity while adding thrill to the experience.

It has been over 15  years since the last main Budokai entry with 2007’s Budokai Tenkaichi 3. This game now includes content from the Dragon Ball Super manga and anime series. This means new Super Saiyan forms for Goku, Gohan, and others. This also introduces new characters such as Kale and Zeno, although the full list of NPC and playable characters remain to be seen.

In keeping with the anime feel, the arena battles make a return in this game. One challenge for new and returning players is the learning curve involved. Existing players already know how the Budokai series differs from other fighting games. Over-the-shoulder cameras and oversized maps are some of these roadblocks, the fast-paced fighting and large character rosters constitute challenges for other players.

Worth the wait

For fans of the Dragon Ball fighting games, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi is definitely worth the wait. As a return to form for the franchise, it updates the technicalities while retaining what fans loved about the long-running franchise. With an updated roster and display capabilities, players can just jump right in and enjoy the intergalactic fighting built on a timeless anime and manga franchise.