Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Fighting
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable
- Developers: Dimps
- Publishers: Atari, Inc., Bandai
Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai: A Portable Dragon Ball Extravaganza
Prepare yourself for explosive battles on the go with Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai, the first game in the popular Dragon Ball Z series to grace the PlayStation Portable. Released in 2006, this fighting game packs a punch with its fast-paced combat, diverse roster of characters, and engaging story modes.
Explosive Fighting Mechanics
Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai captures the high-octane action of the Dragon Ball Z anime and manga series. Players can engage in intense battles using a variety of techniques, including:
- Flight and Energy Abilities: Soar through the air and unleash devastating energy blasts like the Kamehameha and Galick Gun.
- Transformations: Power up your characters to new heights with iconic transformations like Super Saiyan and Perfect Cell.
- Counterattacks: Time your blocks perfectly to execute powerful counterattacks that can turn the tide of battle.
- Character-Specific Attacks: Perform signature moves unique to each character, such as Goku’s Instant Transmission and Vegeta’s Big Bang Attack.
Diverse Roster of Characters
Choose from a roster of 18 playable characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. From the heroic Goku and Vegeta to the villainous Frieza and Cell, there’s a fighter for every playstyle.
Engaging Story Modes
Embark on seven different story modes that delve into the epic narrative of Dragon Ball Z. Relive iconic battles from the Saiyan Saga to the Buu Saga, or create your own custom story with the “What-If?” mode.
Multiplayer Mayhem
Challenge your friends to intense multiplayer duels via the PSP’s Wi-Fi connection. Show off your skills and climb the online leaderboards to prove your superiority.
Immersive Visuals and Audio
Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai boasts vibrant and detailed graphics that bring the world of Dragon Ball Z to life on the PSP’s small screen. The game’s soundtrack features a mix of original compositions and classic themes from the anime series, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai received generally positive reviews upon release. Critics praised its fast-paced combat, diverse character roster, and engaging story modes. The game sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling PSP games of all time.
Shin Budokai laid the groundwork for future Dragon Ball Z fighting games on portable consoles, including the popular Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai – Another Road (2007) and Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team (2010). The game’s success also helped to solidify the PlayStation Portable as a viable platform for high-quality fighting games.
Conclusion
Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai is a portable powerhouse that delivers an authentic and exhilarating Dragon Ball Z experience. With its fast-paced combat, diverse roster of characters, engaging story modes, and multiplayer duels, it’s a must-have for fans of the franchise and fighting game enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned Dragon Ball Z veteran or a newcomer to the series, Shin Budokai is sure to provide hours of explosive entertainment on the go.
Review Score
7.5/10
