Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Fighting
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable
- Developers: Dimps
- Publishers: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Dragonball Evolution: The Game (2009) Review
Introduction
Dragonball Evolution: The Game is a fighting game developed by Dimps and published by Bandai Namco Games for the PlayStation Portable (PSP). It is based on the 2009 live-action film of the same name, which is itself based on the popular Dragon Ball manga and anime series. The game was released in Japan on March 12, 2009, and in North America and Europe on April 7, 2009.
Gameplay
Dragonball Evolution: The Game is a 2D fighting game in which players control one of several characters from the film and battle against each other in one-on-one matches. The game features a simple control scheme that is easy to learn, but difficult to master. Players can perform a variety of basic attacks, such as punches, kicks, and ki blasts, as well as more powerful special moves and ultimate attacks.
One of the unique features of Dragonball Evolution: The Game is its Ki management system. Ki is a type of energy that can be used to power special moves and ultimate attacks. Players must carefully manage their Ki levels in order to avoid running out of energy in the middle of a battle.
The game features several different modes, including Story Mode, Arcade Mode, Mission Mode, and Training Mode. In Story Mode, players follow the story of the film as Goku trains to defeat Lord Piccolo. In Arcade Mode, players battle against a series of opponents in order to unlock new characters and stages. In Mission Mode, players complete a variety of challenges in order to earn rewards. In Training Mode, players can practice their fighting skills against a computer-controlled opponent.
Characters
Dragonball Evolution: The Game features a roster of 12 playable characters, including:
- Goku
- Piccolo
- Yamcha
- Krillin
- Master Roshi
- Tien Shinhan
- Chiaotzu
- Yajirobe
- Bulma
- Oolong
- Puar
- Grandpa Gohan
Each character has their own unique fighting style and special moves. Players can choose the character that best suits their playstyle and battle against their friends or the computer.
Graphics and Sound
Dragonball Evolution: The Game features cel-shaded graphics that are faithful to the look of the film. The character models are well-detailed and the animations are fluid. The game’s soundtrack is composed of a mix of original music and tracks from the film.
Reception
Dragonball Evolution: The Game received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s simple but deep combat system and faithful recreation of the film’s story and characters. Others criticized the game’s repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation.
Despite the mixed reviews, Dragonball Evolution: The Game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game’s success is likely due to the popularity of the Dragon Ball franchise and the fact that it was the only Dragon Ball game available on the PSP at the time.
Conclusion
Dragonball Evolution: The Game is a solid fighting game that is faithful to the film on which it is based. The game’s simple but deep combat system, cel-shaded graphics, and faithful recreation of the film’s story and characters make it a worthwhile purchase for fans of the Dragon Ball franchise.
Score
7/10
Review Score
5/10
