25 Best Dragon Ball Games Ranked for 2026
Recent update
This list is regularly updated to match what’s trending and in-demand among gamers.
Deciding which title deserves the crown as the best Dragon Ball game can be tougher than mastering the Kamehameha, especially since the franchise has been a dominant force in gaming for almost as long as it has reigned over anime and manga. Packed with electrifying battles and unexpected plot twists, this series has inspired some of the most unforgettable gaming jewels out there.
I’ve selected and ranked the best DBZ releases to help you find your next adventure. Brace yourself for explosive combat, tangled storytelling, and stunning visuals as I guide you through this pantheon of legendary Dragon Ball video games.
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My Top Picks for Best Dragon Ball Games
With so many Dragon Ball games spanning decades, narrowing down the absolute best can feel like finding all seven Dragon Balls at once. Rest assured, we’ve done all the work for you and here are our favorites:
- Dragon Ball FighterZ (2018) – The game that proved Dragon Ball fights could somehow look even better than the anime – and just as chaotic if you’re spamming super moves.
- Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot (2020) – Ever wanted to fish with your tail, fight Vegeta, and then make dinner all in the same game? Kakarot lets you live Goku’s absurdly busy life in full.
- Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 (2007) – Boasting a roster so big, even the most obscure characters like Farmer with Shotgun could probably sneak in. Pure nostalgia overload.
Is that it? No, there’s a whole list of epic and immersive titles below – be sure to check them out!
25 Best Dragon Ball Games of All Time
These standout titles are celebrated for their engaging gameplay, faithful storytelling, and ability to make every fan feel like a Z Warrior. Whether you’re seeking intense battles, sprawling adventures, or nostalgic throwbacks, these games are the crown jewels of the franchise.
No more waiting – let’s dive into the lineup and discover the best DBZ game!
1. Dragon Ball FighterZ [Best for Competitive Fighting]
| Our Score | Enebameter 10/10
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| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PC |
| Year of release | 2018 |
| Developer | Arc System Works |
| Average playtime | 12 hours |
| Unique features | 2.5D tag-team combat, 3v3 battles, assist mechanics, dramatic finishes, destructible stages, auto-combos |
Unveiled in 2018 by Arc System Works, Dragon Ball FighterZ is a treat for fans of the anime and fighting game enthusiasts alike. This 2.5D brawler delivers a mind-blowing visual treat inspired by the anime’s signature style, all wrapped around a combat system that’s easy to learn but tough to master. It’s on our list of the best PS5 fighting games for a reason.
Featuring an original storyline split into three arcs, Dragon Ball FighterZ gives players the chance to see the story from different angles. The three-on-three tag team battles let you assemble dream teams of your favorite characters, and the simplified controls make it fun for casual players to unleash dazzling combos. That said, seasoned fighters will find plenty of depth in character-specific techniques.
My Verdict: I think this is the ultimate Dragon Ball fighting game if you care about skill-based combat and competitive depth.
2. Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot [Best for Story-Driven RPG Fans]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.8/10
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| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PC |
| Year of release | 2020 |
| Developer | CyberConnect2 |
| Average playtime | 30-55 hours |
| Unique features | Action RPG mechanics, open-world exploration, character progression, side quests, real-time combat |
Take a leap into the legendary universe with a fresh touch of action RPG in 2020’s Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot. One of the best action RPG games, it perfectly merges open-world exploration – you’ll get to zoom through beautiful landscapes, interact with well-loved characters, and engage in quirky side quests – with combat that’s brimming with dazzling beam attacks, spectacular transformations, and those signature dramatic battles.
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot boasts bright, straight-from-anime visuals, rich character designs, and carefully recreated environments. The original voice cast is back, creating cinematic moments that truly hit the nostalgia chords. Story-wise, the game covers all the big arcs, from the Saiyan Saga straight through to the Buu Saga.
My Verdict: I’d recommend this if you want to actually live through the Dragon Ball Z story rather than just fight through it.
3. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 [Best for Massive Character Roster]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.6/10
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| Platforms | PS2, Wii |
| Year of release | 2005 |
| Developer | Spike Chunsoft |
| Average playtime | 12-24 hours |
| Unique features | Over 160 characters, large 3D arenas, day-night cycle, character transformations, beam clashes |
Released in 2005 for PlayStation 2 and Wii, this fan-favorite boasts one of the largest character lineups – over 160 unique fighters, each with their own distinctive moves and transformations.
The battles explode in 3D arenas, giving you the freedom of aerial combat with techniques straight out of the beloved anime. Some critics may have found the gameplay repetitive but we adored the richly detailed combat and the ability to tailor our favorite warriors.
Visually, it’s a treat: cel-shaded graphics closely mimic the show’s vibrant style, while original voice acting adds an extra touch of authenticity.
My Verdict: For me, this is still the best Dragon Ball game if you want pure variety and fan service.
4. Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero [Best for Modern Tenkaichi Experience]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.5/10
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| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Developer | Spike Chunsoft |
| Average playtime | 20-20 hours |
| Unique features | 180+ playable characters, Custom Battle mode, “What-If” story scenarios, Vanishing Assault and Revenge Counter mechanics, first-person cinematic cutscenes |
The latest addition to the Dragon Ball games lineup is a triumphant nod to the much-loved Budokai Tenkaichi series and one of the top PS5 games. Wait till you step into the vast 3D arenas – you’re in for some big and flashy battles that would make the anime proud. Epic ultimate moves powered by the “sparking” meter and the game’s user-friendly controls make it a great pick for newbies, though competitive players may find the mechanics a bit simplistic.
A highlight of Sparking! Zero is the “Episode Battle“ mode, giving you the chance to relive fan-favorite moments or experiment with alternate “What-If“ storylines that put a fun spin on the original. Add in the visually immersive character graphics, and this game feels like you’re stepping straight into the anime.
My Verdict: I see this as the closest modern successor to Tenkaichi, even if it leans more casual than competitive.
5. Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 [Best for Character Customization]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.3/10
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| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PC, Google Stadia |
| Year of release | 2016 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 19 hours |
| Unique features | Character customization, hub world exploration, online multiplayer, time-travel missions, RPG progression, large roster, team-based battles |
Step right into the world of Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2, a sizzling cocktail of MMORPG flair and fast-paced fight action, all set in the huge, buzzing metropolis of Conton City. This sequel is bigger, bolder, and a whole lot more personalized than its predecessor.
This game is a real gem with many customization choices. You can build your dream warrior from different races, each featuring special abilities. Multiplayer battles and co-op missions make the game even more fun and replayable. Plus, there’s a new element of time travel that lets you change the story of Dragon Ball.
My Verdict: If you want to create your own Dragon Ball character and live in that universe, this is easily my top pick.
6. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3 [Best for Classic Fighting Mechanics]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.2/10
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| Platforms | PS2, Wii |
| Year of release | 2004 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 10-24 hours |
| Unique features | Fast-paced 2.5D combat, character transformations, Dragon Rush system, fusion mechanics, world tournament mode |
Slip into the Saiyan gear of your beloved Dragon Ball heroes in Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3. This much-loved 2004 classic lets you relive some of the most iconic moments from the anime, combining exciting action with a surprisingly wide roster of characters.Budokai 3’s standout feature is its combat, which masterfully blends accessibility with depth that pays homage to its origins.
The Dragon Universe mode offers a semi-open-world experience, letting you fly around legendary locations to battle rivals and uncover secrets. Add lively cel-shaded graphics, and you have a perfect pick for both die-hard DBZ fans and casual players.
My Verdict: I still think this is one of the most polished old-school DBZ fighters ever made.
7. Dragon Ball Z: The Legacy of Goku II [Best for Retro RPG Fans]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9/10
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| Platforms | Game Boy Advance |
| Year of release | 2003 |
| Developer | Webfoot Technologies |
| Average playtime | 14-28 hours |
| Unique features | Action-RPG combat, character progression, open-world exploration, multiple playable characters, side quests |
Making a huge leap forward from its predecessor, Legacy of Goku II ventures boldly into RPG territory, covering the well-loved Android and Cell Sagas. The sequel outshines the first edition with an enhanced battle system, new exploratory features, and a wider range of characters to choose from. Flex your gaming prowess by leveling up and customizing your favorites like Gohan, Piccolo, Vegeta, and Trunks.
This game is bursting with exciting side quests and unforgettable NPCs that pull you right into an immersive world you won’t want to leave. And anime fans – you’re in for a treat. The stunning pixel art style beautifully recreates those beloved, iconic visuals we all know and love.
My Verdict: For a handheld RPG, I find this surprisingly deep and still very playable today.
8. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai [Best for Series Origins]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.9/10
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| Platforms | PS2, PS3, Xbox 360, GameCube |
| Year of release | 2002 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 4-13 hours |
| Unique features | Cell-shaded graphics, 3D arena combat, story mode based on anime, combo-based fighting |
Enter the electrifying world of Dragon Ball Z: Budokai, the title that paved the way for the beloved Budokai series. This fighting game not only offers high-octane battles but also takes you on a nostalgic journey through the anime’s classic arcs, spanning the Saiyan Saga to the Android Saga. With visually pleasing, cel-shaded cutscenes and a rock-infused music score that rings true to the series, it’s a bucket-load of fun.
Easy-to-grasp game mechanics make it an instant hit among casual gamers. Feel the rush as you master combos and unique moves without any mind-numbing complexity. The introduction of a 7-slot skill tray system lets you tailor characters with a variety of special moves, abilities, and gear, providing a richer battle experience.
My Verdict: I see this as more of a foundational game today, but still worth playing for the nostalgia.
9. Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors [Best for Portable Fighting]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.7/10
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| Platforms | Game Boy Advance |
| Year of release | 2004 |
| Developer | Cavia |
| Average playtime | 3-10 hours |
| Unique features | 2D fighting, tag team battles, fast-paced combat, special move combos |
For players on the go, Supersonic Warriors is the ultimate Dragon Ball Z adventure: fast-paced, exciting, and full of twists and turns. With 2D aerial duels where speed and strategy take center stage, this GBA title captures the energy of the anime series. Each fighter has distinct skills, making flashy combo attacks easy and fun with user-friendly controls.
The unique story mode that goes off the rails with creative “What-If” scenarios is the game’s crowning glory. Ever wondered what would happen if Goku teamed up with Frieza? Discover the answer in Supersonic Warriors, where each gameplay session is unlike any other.
My Verdict: I think this is one of the best quick-play DBZ games if you’re on handheld.
10. Dragon Ball Z: Burst Limit [Best for Cinematic Battles]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.6/10
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| Platforms | PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Year of release | 2008 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 5-44 hours |
| Unique features | 3D arena battles, cinematic story mode, destructible environments, team attacks |
Burst Limit took the Dragon Ball Z series into the HD era. As the first title in the series to appear on seventh-generation consoles, it offers enhanced graphics and refined combat. The story mode revisits the Saiyan, Frieza, and Cell Sagas, blending gameplay and captivating cutscenes.
Combat is approachable yet satisfying, with cinematic “Drama Pieces” that activate during battle to recreate iconic moments from the anime. Each Burst Limit fight feels like an episode coming to life, thanks to the incredible character models and detailed environments.
My Verdict: I like this for its presentation, even if it lacks the depth of other entries.
11. Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team [Best for Portable Multiplayer Chaos]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.5/10
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| Platforms | PSP |
| Year of release | 2010 |
| Developer | Spike |
| Average playtime | 12 hours |
| Unique features | Two-character teams , action-packed combat , wide-open arenas , 70+ playable characters |
Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team brings explosive 3D battles and a unique focus on team dynamics to the PSP. This game for the first time allowed players to assemble two-character teams for chaotic, action-packed combat in wide-open arenas. With 70+ playable characters and all of the main story arcs packed in, this game delivers the ultimate Dragon Ball experience for fans who love to play on the move.
The highlight here is multiplayer, which lets up to four players compete in wireless matches. Impressively, the graphics are top-notch for a handheld device, perfectly capturing the anime vibe with smooth animations and bold effects.
Across the broader landscape of best anime games, Dragon Ball titles consistently sit near the top thanks to how well they translate high-speed action and iconic transformations into playable systems.
My Verdict: If you have a friend with a PSP, this is the absolute peak of handheld DBZ chaos – nothing beats those 2v2 wireless showdowns.
12. Dragon Ball Z: Extreme Butōden [Best for 3DS Fighting Fans]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.3/10
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| Platforms | 3DS |
| Year of release | 2015 |
| Developer | Arc System Works |
| Average playtime | 4-19 hours |
| Unique features | 2D fighting , combo chains , tag team battles , special moves |
This title is a heartfelt tribute to Dragon Ball enthusiasts who appreciate classic 2D fighting games. Brought to you by Arc System Works, Extreme Butōden is a Nintendo 3DS game that comes with impressive sprite-based visuals and quick action gameplay. It gives you variety, boasting over 20 characters and a multitude of assist heroes to choose from.
The game’s story sticks to the legendary Dragon Ball Z sagas, while the “Adventure Mode” brings in exclusive battles and unlockable content. The gameplay mechanics are simple to understand and still, they offer complexity with combinations of moves, assists, and special moves. While there’s no online multiplayer option, the local multiplayer and a variety of gaming modes ensure an exciting experience.
My Verdict: A must-play for 3DS owners who appreciate high-quality sprite work and the classic 2D fighter feel.
13. Dragon Ball Z: The Legacy of Goku [Best for GBA Roleplayers]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.2/10
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| Platforms | Game Boy Advance |
| Year of release | 2002 |
| Developer | Webfoot Technologies |
| Average playtime | 7-12 hours |
| Unique features | Action RPG , exploration , character upgrades , story-driven gameplay , side quests |
Immerse yourself in Goku’s world as you play through the early storylines of Dragon Ball Z in this adventurous action RPG for the Game Boy Advance. The Legacy of Goku lets you dive into the Saiyan and Namek sagas, mixing adventure, combat, and storytelling to give the classic anime a fresh twist.
The game’s overhead view and straightforward gameplay make it easy to get into, while epic boss fights against big names like Vegeta and Frieza keep things exciting. While the gameplay is a little simple and the pacing can feel uneven, The Legacy of Goku set the stage for future Dragon Ball RPGs.
My Verdict: It’s definitely a bit rough around the edges compared to its sequel, but it’s a charming trip down memory lane for GBA fans.
14. Dragon Ball Z: Infinite World [Best for Budokai Veterans]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.1/10
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| Platforms | PS2 |
| Year of release | 2008 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 12-24 hours |
| Unique features | Fighting modes , character customization , story mode , mini-games , tag team battles |
Infinite World brings together the best elements of the Budokai games, infusing them with fresh features for a gaming experience that feels comfortably recognizable yet new. Venture into major narratives from the Saiyan saga to the GT era, all enhanced with dramatic cinematics and swift, intense fights.
Introducing distinctive mini-games such as chasing Bubbles the monkey or going fishing, Infinite World adds a dash of diversity to the basic fighting gameplay. You can dive into the thrill of tightly controlled and reactive combat paired with a heavy dose of strategy and character customization through the capsule system. Overall, Infinite World delivers a fittingly epic goodbye to Dragon Ball Z on the PS2.
My Verdict: Think of this as the “definitive” Budokai experience on PS2 – it’s the perfect swan song for that era.
15. Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure [Best for Original Series Exploration]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8/10
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| Platforms | Game Boy Advance |
| Year of release | 2004 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 3 hours |
| Unique features | Side-scrolling beat ’em up , platforming , cooperative multiplayer , character transformations , collectible items |
Revisit the origins of it all with Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure – a Game Boy Advance classic that chronicles the nascent journeys of the young Saiyan Goku. Join him as he ventures through iconic locations, takes on epic battles with legendary foes, and sets out to collect the seven magical Dragon Balls.
A masterful integration of thrilling combat and side-scrolling platforming forms the gameplay variety this game offers, ranging from terrestrial fights, high-octane aerial combat, to intense 1v1 fight scenarios. Beautifully detailed pixel art and dynamic animations breathe life into the primary DBZ series, offering fans a nostalgic and engaging trip back to Goku’s roots.
My Verdict: This is hands-down the best representation of the original Kid Goku era; the pixel art is absolutely gorgeous.
16. Dragon Ball Z: Sagas [Best for Co-op Sagas]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.9/10
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| Platforms | PS2, Xbox, GameCube |
| Year of release | 2005 |
| Developer | Avalanche Software |
| Average playtime | 14 hours |
| Unique features | Action RPG , open-world exploration , multiple playable characters , combo-based combat , mission variety |
Dragon Ball Z: Sagas ventures into new territory, combining action-adventure gameplay with an open-world twist. Players relive the series’ major story arcs from the Saiyan Saga through the Cell Saga, while exploring open environments and collecting Z-Orbs along the way.
The cooperative mode is a highlight, letting players team up to battle enemies and bosses. Combat features iconic energy attacks and melee combos, though the controls can feel unpolished. But even if the game doesn’t fully hit the mark, its ambition to try something different in the Dragon Ball Z gaming landscape makes it a notable entry.
My Verdict: It’s a bit of a “guilty pleasure” game – clunky, sure, but playing through the sagas in co-op mode is still a blast with a friend.
17. Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai [Best for High-Speed Portable Action]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.9/10
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| Platforms | PSP |
| Year of release | 2006 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 5-7 hours |
| Unique features | Portable fighting , 3D arenas , story mode , tag team battles , special moves |
Shin Budokai takes the Budokai formula on the go, bringing you smooth, exciting 2.5D fighting action with a fresh twist on the story. Set in an alternate version of the Majin Buu Saga, this title introduces a brand-new plot while keeping the fast-paced combat you know and love from the Budokai games.
Thanks to the responsive and precise controls, every combat is a breeze to play. Multiplayer mode on the PSP stands out, letting you dive into electrifying fights with friends. And, of course, the lineup features beloved characters, each rocking their iconic moves and transformations.
My Verdict: This game proved that you didn’t need a home console to get a high-quality, high-speed Dragon Ball fighter.
18. Dragon Ball Z: Revenge of King Piccolo [Best for Retro Platforming]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.8/10
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| Platforms | Wii |
| Year of release | 2009 |
| Developer | Media.Vision |
| Average playtime | 7-9 hours |
| Unique features | Side-scrolling beat ’em up , story-driven levels , classic arcade style , multiple playable characters , combo attacks |
Before Goku became the Earth’s mightiest hero, he was just a kid with a big heart and an even bigger power pole. Revenge of King Piccolo takes us back to Goku’s early adventures, offering a fresh spin on the Dragon Ball world. This action-packed title combines side-scrolling platforming with beat-’em-up combat, creating an old-school arcade experience with a colorful Dragon Ball twist.
The game takes you through the Red Ribbon Army storyline and the King Piccolo Saga. Its fun narration and bright graphics will take you back to the original series. Plus, it’s easy to learn Goku’s special abilities, like stretching his power pole or shooting energy blasts, making it a game that everyone can enjoy.
My Verdict: A refreshing break from the usual Z-era fighters – it captures the fun and adventure of the original series perfectly.
19. Dragon Ball: Raging Blast [Best for Cinematic Power Ups]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.7/10
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| Platforms | PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Year of release | 2009 |
| Developer | Spike |
| Average playtime | 17-35 hours |
| Unique features | Realistic 3D battles , wide character roster , destructible environments , cinematic camera angles , story mode |
Designed for PS3 and Xbox 360, Raging Blast brings your anime dreams to life with visually striking battles. Players can dodge, teleport, and execute explosive super attacks straight from the anime series.The game boasts a comprehensive list of characters pulled from the major sagas, including your favorite character transformations.
The combat in Raging Blast is fast-paced, flashy, and movie-like, balancing easy-to-learn mechanics and strategic depth for those wishing to master the game. What really stands out are the special moves, featuring powerful ultimate attacks that brighten the screen and ensure gratifying KOs.
My Verdict: This is essentially the HD evolution of the Tenkaichi series; if you loved BT3, you’ll feel right at home here.
20. Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle [Best for Strategic Gacha Fans]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.6/10
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| Platforms | Android, iPadOS, iOS |
| Year of release | 2015 |
| Developer | Akatsuki |
| Average playtime | 100 hours |
| Unique features | Collectible cards , match-3 combat , character fusion , daily events , gacha mechanics |
Dokkan Battle shows just how great Dragon Ball video games can be on mobile. It blends fast-paced, puzzle-filled gameplay with a splash of strategy to keep things exciting.
Since welcoming players in 2015, this free-to-play mobile title lets players create their dream squads from beloved Dragon Ball heroes and villains, diving headfirst into over-the-top battles.What makes this game so fun is its huge lineup of characters from Dragon Ball Z, Super, GT, and even the movies. Every update brings awesome new character animations and fresh content, keeping the players hooked.
My Verdict: Don’t let the “puzzle” tag fool you – this is an incredibly deep strategy game with some of the best animations in the franchise.
21. Dragon Ball Z: Hyper Dimension [Best for SNES Fighting Prowess]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.5/10
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| Platforms | SNES |
| Year of release | 1996 |
| Developer | Tose |
| Average playtime | 1-2 hours |
| Unique features | Fast-paced 2D fighting , multiple playable characters , combo-based combat , story mode , pixel art style |
Looking for a blast from the past that’s still fresh today? Hyper Dimension is your answer. A secret treasure of the 16-bit era, it was the first game to bring the world of Dragon Ball Z to life on the SNES with stunning visuals. Unveiled in 1996, this 2D brawler isn’t about mindless button smashing, but instead pushes you towards strategic, nail-biting combat.
While the roster may seem limited with just 10 characters spanning from Frieza to Buu sagas, each fighter is thoughtfully crafted and well-balanced. The game’s unique gameplay elements like teleport counters, in-battle health restoration, and smooth arena transitions were remarkably ahead of their time.
My Verdict: A technical masterpiece for the SNES; it’s still one of the best-looking 2D fighters ever made.
22. Dragon Ball GT: Final Bout [Best for GT Completionists]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.4/10
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| Platforms | PlayStation |
| Year of release | 1997 |
| Developer | Tose |
| Average playtime | 2 hours |
| Unique features | 3D arena battles , story mode , tag-team fights , multiple characters , cinematic cutscenes |
In 1997, Dragon Ball GT: Final Bout hit the scene as the first-ever fully 3D DBZ title on PlayStation. With its early polygonal graphics, it brought to life large, eye-catching character models and a dramatic setting that was a fresh take from its 2D forerunners.This game put gameplay focus on slower, calculated fights where players fought in large arenas using powerful tactics and iconic transformations.
You get to play with your favorite Dragon Ball Z characters and some fresh faces from GT like Super Saiyan 4 Goku – a real treat for the fans. Plus, the rare feature of English voice-overs made it feel extra special to Western fans.
My Verdict: It’s slow and clunky by today’s standards, but the opening cinematic and the novelty of SSJ4 Goku make it legendary.
23. Dragon Ball Z: Super Butōden 2 [Best for Split-Screen Tactics]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.3/10
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| Platforms | SNES, 3DS |
| Year of release | 1993 |
| Developer | Tose |
| Average playtime | 30-50 minutes |
| Unique features | Split-screen battles , combo system , multiple playable characters , special moves , multiplayer mode |
This nostalgic 2D fighting game debuted in 1993 and was way ahead of its time, featuring a split-screen mode that was perfect for intense showdowns in big arenas. With Dragon Ball Super Butōden 2, you can relive key moments from the Cell Saga and even explore a “What-If” plotline that features characters like Bojack and Broly.
The fighting mechanics of the game are both strategic and sharp, requiring smart energy management to come out on top. Once your energy meter is maxed, you can unleash game-changing superattacks such as Gohan’s Father-Son Kamehameha or Vegeta’s Final Flash. The visuals are also a treat for the fans, with fun sprite animations really bringing the anime’s style to life.
My Verdict: The split-screen camera was a genius solution for long-range energy battles back in the 90s.
24. Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Tenkaichi [Best for Custom Hero Journeys]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.2/10
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| Year of release | 2011 |
| Developer | Spike |
| Average playtime | 12 hours |
| Unique features | Open-world exploration , dynamic combat , character customization , cinematic story mode , destructible environments , large roster |
In this release, Dragon Ball Z’s traditional fighter gets a cinematic makeover. Perfectly encapsulating the over-the-top action from the much-loved anime, Ultimate Tenkaichi is a real feast for the eyes. The combat mixes quick-time events with explosive ultimate attacks, making every clash feel like it’s straight from the series.
The best part of the game has to be Hero Mode, where you get to create and customize your own Saiyan character. This RPG-style campaign lets you jump into a new personalized storyline and level up your warrior through epic battles, offering a fresh, fun way to explore the Dragon Ball Z universe like never before.
My Verdict: While the combat is very “rock-paper-scissors,” the Hero Mode and the environmental destruction are top-tier.
25. Dragon Ball Heroes: Ultimate Mission [Best for Deep Tactical Variety]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.1/10
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| Platforms | Arcade, Switch, 3DS, PC |
| Year of release | 2010 |
| Developer | Dimps |
| Average playtime | 20-30 hours |
| Unique features | Card-based battles , mission variety , character upgrades , multiplayer modes , anime-inspired visuals , expansive character roster |
Ultimate Mission brings the hit Japanese arcade game to the Nintendo 3DS, offering a fun and fresh card-battling escapade. You’ll assemble teams using cards featuring heroes, villains, and epic transformations from every Dragon Ball saga, building dream rosters that span the entire universe. 200+ missions and a massive character lineup guarantee non-stop fun.
By blending strategic card choices, resource management, and just-right timing, the gameplay brings a unique, tactical flair often missing from the usual Dragon Ball Z titles. Visually, Ultimate Mission goes all out – get ready for eye-popping animations, flashy special moves, and that signature over-the-top action that makes Dragon Ball such a blast to watch.
My Verdict: The sheer amount of content and “What-If” fusions makes this a dream for fans who love theorizing dream matchups.
My Overall Verdict: The Ultimate Saiyan Showdown
Choosing a single winner from this list is like trying to find all seven Dragon Balls in one day – possible, but you are going to break a serious sweat.
- For those looking for the absolute peak of skill-based, competitive combat → Dragon Ball FighterZ. Its 2.5D visuals actually look better than the anime, and the tag-team mechanics offer a level of depth that keeps seasoned fighters coming back for more.
- For fans who prefer to immerse themselves in the world → Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is the most comprehensive adaptation of the Z-saga ever created. It allows you to live Goku’s life – from epic boss battles to simple joys like fishing with your tail.
- If you want that same sense of scale but with a personal twist → Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 remains the gold standard for creating your own warrior and rewriting history.
- Finally, for those who value variety and fan service → Budokai Tenkaichi 3 lives on through its massive 160+ character roster. Its modern successor, Sparking! Zero, carries that torch beautifully for the current generation with over 180 fighters and stunning 3D arenas.
Whether you crave the retro RPG charm of The Legacy of Goku II or the competitive polish of FighterZ, there has never been a better time to be a Z Warrior.
FAQs
Picking a favorite is tough, but Dragon Ball FighterZ and Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 share the top spot. Whether you crave competitive 2.5D combat or a massive roster of 160+ characters, these are the franchise’s crown jewels.
While the exact total isn’t listed, there are “so many” games spanning decades. This list alone ranks the top 25, ranging from 1990s classics like Dragon Ball Z: Hyper Dimension to modern massive releases like Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero.
Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle leads with a staggering average playtime of 100 hours. For console fans, the multiplayer-focused Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 is a massive, buzzing experience that keeps players returning to its hub world for long-term RPG progression.
The newest addition to the lineup is Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, released in 2024. It serves as a modern successor to the Budokai Tenkaichi series, featuring over 180 characters and “What-If” scenarios that let you spin the original story in new directions.
It comes down to taste. Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is the ultimate choice for living through the official story. However, Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 is better if you want to create a custom warrior.
