Dragon Ball: Raging Blast – A Fan-Favorite Fighting Game Experience
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast – A Fan-Favorite Fighting Game Experience
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast is a 3D fighting game developed by Spike and published by Bandai Namco Games. Released in 2009 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, it was one of the early entries into the seventh-generation console era for the Dragon Ball gaming franchise. Known for its faithful adaptation of the anime, dynamic combat mechanics, and stunning visuals, Dragon Ball: Raging Blast quickly became a beloved title among fans of the series.
This article takes an in-depth look at Dragon Ball: Raging Blast, exploring its gameplay, features, and lasting impact on the Dragon Ball gaming legacy.
1. Overview of Dragon Ball: Raging Blast
1.1 Game Basics
- Developer: Spike
- Publisher: Bandai Namco Games
- Release Date: November 2009
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
The game focuses on delivering an authentic Dragon Ball experience, allowing players to engage in high-intensity battles with characters from across the franchise.
1.2 Key Features
- Faithful recreation of iconic battles and transformations.
- 70+ playable characters, including alternate forms and transformations.
- Interactive and destructible environments.
- A variety of game modes catering to both solo and multiplayer gameplay.
2. Gameplay Mechanics
2.1 Combat System
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast offers a fluid 3D combat system that allows players to fight in expansive arenas:
- Energy Attacks: Iconic moves like the Kamehameha, Galick Gun, and Special Beam Cannon.
- Close Combat: Perform melee combos and powerful rush attacks.
- Transformations: Transform mid-battle into Super Saiyan forms or unleash Ultimate Attacks.
2.2 Environmental Interactions
The game’s arenas are highly interactive, featuring destructible landscapes that react to the intensity of battles. For example, energy blasts can leave craters, and fighters can be thrown through mountains or buildings.
2.3 Customization
Players can customize their favorite characters by assigning special skills or stat boosts, tailoring fighters to their preferred playstyle.
3. Game Modes
3.1 Dragon Battle Collection
The primary story mode, Dragon Battle Collection, allows players to relive iconic battles from the Dragon Ball series. Spanning sagas like Saiyan, Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu, this mode features over 100 missions.
3.2 Super Battle Trial
This mode offers various challenges to test players’ skills, such as:
- Survival Mode: Fight endless waves of enemies.
- Time Attack: Defeat opponents as quickly as possible.
- Score Attack: Earn points for stylish and efficient combat.
3.3 Versus Mode
Battle against friends or AI opponents in 1v1 or team-based matchups.
3.4 Online Battles
Compete with players worldwide in ranked matches or casual battles.
4. Roster of Characters
4.1 Playable Fighters
With over 70 characters, Raging Blast features a robust roster that includes:
- Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, and Piccolo.
- Iconic villains like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.
- Fan-favorite characters such as Broly, Bardock, and Gogeta.
4.2 Transformations
Many characters have multiple forms, such as:
- Super Saiyan transformations for Saiyan characters.
- Final forms for Frieza, Cell, and other villains.
4.3 Unique Abilities
Each character has distinct moves and abilities, faithfully adapted from the anime.
5. Visuals and Presentation
5.1 Graphics
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast boasts stunning cel-shaded graphics that bring the anime’s art style to life. Characters and energy effects are vibrant and detailed, staying true to the source material.
5.2 Sound Design
The game features high-energy music and sound effects that match the intensity of battles. Both English and Japanese voiceovers are available, giving players the option to enjoy the original performances.
6. Critical Reception
6.1 Praise
- The faithful adaptation of Dragon Ball’s visuals and combat was widely praised.
- Fans appreciated the large roster and variety of game modes.
- The destructible environments and cinematic Ultimate Attacks were standout features.
6.2 Criticism
- The controls were criticized for being complex, especially for newcomers.
- Some fans felt the story mode lacked depth compared to other Dragon Ball games.
7. Legacy of Dragon Ball: Raging Blast
7.1 Influence on Future Games
The mechanics and presentation of Raging Blast laid the groundwork for future Dragon Ball titles, such as Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 and Dragon Ball Xenoverse.
7.2 Fan Nostalgia
Despite its flaws, Raging Blast remains a fan-favorite for its nostalgic value and dedication to recreating the anime’s spirit.
7.3 A Benchmark for Visuals
At the time of its release, the game’s graphics set a new standard for Dragon Ball games, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on seventh-generation consoles.
8. Tips for Mastering Dragon Ball: Raging Blast
8.1 Learn the Basics
Spend time in the training mode to familiarize yourself with the controls and combos.
8.2 Use Transformations Wisely
Transformations consume energy but provide significant boosts to power. Use them strategically during battles.
8.3 Customize Characters
Experiment with skill and stat customizations to optimize your favorite characters for specific challenges.
8.4 Explore All Modes
Each game mode offers unique rewards and experiences, so explore them all to fully enjoy the game.
9. Conclusion: Why Dragon Ball: Raging Blast is Worth Revisiting
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast is a must-play for fans of the franchise and fighting games alike. Its faithful recreation of the Dragon Ball universe, expansive roster, and dynamic combat mechanics make it a standout title in the series’ gaming history.
Whether you’re reliving epic battles from the anime or creating your own rivalries in multiplayer matches, Dragon Ball: Raging Blast offers an exciting and immersive experience that captures the heart of Dragon Ball.