Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3″ is a fighting video game developed by Dimps and published by Atari. Released for the PlayStation 2 in 2004, it is the third installment in the Dragon Ball Z: Budokai series and features fast-paced, intense battles based on the popular Dragon Ball Z anime and manga series.
Gameplay:
- 3D Fighting Mechanics: Budokai 3 retains the 3D fighting mechanics of its predecessors, allowing players to engage in one-on-one battles in fully three-dimensional arenas. The combat system incorporates a combination of punches, kicks, energy blasts, and powerful special moves.
- Combo System: The game features an extensive combo system, enabling players to string together various attacks and techniques to create devastating combinations. Mastering the combo system is essential for skilled gameplay.
- Energy Management: Characters in Budokai 3 utilize energy (ki) for special moves and transformations. Managing ki effectively is crucial for executing powerful attacks and maintaining a strategic advantage in battle.
- Dragon Rush: A new feature introduced in Budokai 3 is the Dragon Rush system. This mechanic allows players to initiate a sequence of attacks and defenses, with the potential to unleash a powerful cinematic finishing move.
- Customization: The game includes a character customization system where players can assign and upgrade various abilities, super moves, and transformations to their favorite characters.
- World Tournament Mode: In addition to the story mode, Budokai 3 introduces the World Tournament mode, where players can compete in various tournaments against AI opponents or friends. Winning tournaments unlocks additional characters and content.
Story Mode:
- Saiyan Saga to Kid Buu Saga: Budokai 3’s story mode covers significant arcs from the Dragon Ball Z series, allowing players to experience iconic battles from the Saiyan Saga to the Kid Buu Saga. The narrative is presented with voiced cutscenes and follows the events of the anime closely.
- Branching Paths: The story mode incorporates branching paths, allowing players to make decisions that affect the progression of the storyline. This adds an element of replayability as players can experience different outcomes.
Characters:
- Large Roster: Budokai 3 boasts a large roster of playable characters, including fan favorites like Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo, Frieza, Cell, and many more. The diverse character roster spans multiple sagas of the Dragon Ball Z series.
- Unlockable Characters: Some characters are initially locked and can be unlocked by progressing through the story mode, winning tournaments, or fulfilling specific in-game requirements.
Graphics and Presentation:
- Visual Style: The game features a cel-shaded visual style that replicates the look of the Dragon Ball Z anime. The character models, animations, and special effects contribute to the authenticity of the source material.
- Cutscenes and Voice Acting: Animated cutscenes with voice acting from the English dub cast further enhance the storytelling experience, bringing the Dragon Ball Z narrative to life.
Soundtrack:
The game includes a soundtrack with music inspired by the Dragon Ball Z series, contributing to the energetic and intense atmosphere of the battles.
Reception:
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3 received positive reviews for its improved gameplay mechanics, extensive character roster, and faithful adaptation of the Dragon Ball Z storyline. Critics and fans alike praised the game’s engaging combat system and the depth added by the Dragon Rush feature.
Legacy:
Budokai 3 is often regarded as one of the best Dragon Ball Z games on the PlayStation 2 and remains a favorite among fans of the series. Its success contributed to the continued popularity of the Budokai series and solidified its place in the hearts of Dragon Ball Z and fighting game enthusiasts.
