Bandai Namco has officially revealed the second downloadable content (DLC) pack for the popular game Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO, following a previous announcement mishap on the Humble Bundle retailer site. This new DLC, titled "DAIMA Character Pack 1," introduces eight exciting new playable characters from the recently concluded Dragon Ball Daima television series.
The characters included in this inaugural Dragon Ball Daima DLC pack are as follows:
- Son Goku (Mini) — Super Saiyan
- Vegeta (Mini)
- Vegeta (Mini) — Super Saiyan
- Vegeta (Mini) — Super Saiyan 2
- Vegeta (Mini) — Super Saiyan 3
- Glorio
- Panzy
- Majin Koo
One notable addition is the "Son Goku (Mini)," which was previously available as a pre-order bonus character. Bandai Namco has clarified that this version of Goku can transform into Super Saiyan and utilize a special move called Aura Impact. For players who already have Goku (Mini) as part of the Pre-Order Pack DLC, this alternative version can be accessed by equipping a specific outfit. For those who haven’t purchased it yet, Goku (Mini) will show up as a new character in the character selection menu.
The "Season Pass" for Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO is packed with content, including the previously released "Hero of Justice Pack." This pack features characters and transformations from the 2022 movie Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, along with two Dragon Ball Daima character packs. The final character pack is tentatively scheduled for release in the third quarter of 2025. Players can purchase the complete Season Pass for $34.99, while the "Hero of Justice Pack" is available separately for $17.99.
The "DAIMA Character Pack 1" will officially go on sale to the public on April 24, 2025. However, players who have already bought the Season Pass will gain immediate access to this content starting today, April 21, 2025, aligning with Bandai Namco’s strategy of providing early access to ongoing content releases.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO was launched on October 10, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (via Steam) in Japan, followed by an international release on October 11, 2024. This game distinguishes itself from the earlier Dragon Ball Z ("Budokai") series, which was developed by Dimps. Instead, Sparking! is created by Spike and features 3D arenas complemented by an over-the-shoulder camera perspective. The title "Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO" is a nod to the original trilogy’s naming convention in Japan.
The first three games in the Sparking! series—originally released for the PlayStation 2 between 2005 and 2007—also saw ports for the Nintendo Wii, which included the second and third installments. Internationally, this series was branded under the "Budokai Tenkaichi" title. Additionally, a fourth installment, known as Tag Vs. in Japan and Tenkaichi Tag Team internationally, was launched for the PlayStation Portable in 2010. As Spike Chunsoft, the company later produced crossover fighting titles such as J-Stars Victory VS in 2014 and Jump Force in 2019.
With the introduction of the "DAIMA Character Pack 1," players can look forward to enhanced gameplay experiences, as the new characters bring unique abilities and transformations that align with the narratives of the Dragon Ball Daima series. This DLC not only enriches the character roster but also offers players varied strategies and gameplay styles to explore.
Incorporating iconic characters like Goku and Vegeta in their mini forms, along with their powerful transformations, adds depth to the combat mechanics. The inclusion of characters like Glorio, Panzy, and Majin Koo introduces fresh experiences, allowing players to experiment with different fighting techniques and team compositions.
Sparking! ZERO’s gameplay is designed to be accessible yet challenging, making it appealing to both seasoned players and newcomers to the franchise. The dynamic combat system encourages players to master various moves and strategies, ensuring that battles remain engaging and competitive.
Moreover, the visual graphics and animation quality in Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO are noteworthy. The developers have put significant effort into replicating the vibrant art style of the original anime, bringing characters and environments to life with stunning visuals. This attention to detail enhances the overall gaming experience, allowing players to immerse themselves in the world of Dragon Ball.
With the ongoing release of DLC packs, Bandai Namco is committed to keeping the player community engaged. The phased rollout of additional content, including character packs and new gameplay elements, ensures that fans have a reason to continue playing and exploring new facets of the game.
The anticipation surrounding future content, particularly the additional Dragon Ball Daima character packs, builds excitement among the player base. As more characters are introduced, the potential for diverse team setups and strategies will expand, providing players with endless opportunities to tailor their gameplay experience.
For fans of the Dragon Ball franchise, the "DAIMA Character Pack 1" is an exciting addition that will enrich the already vibrant gameplay of Sparking! ZERO. As the game continues to evolve with new content, it solidifies its position as a must-play for both fans of the series and fighting game enthusiasts.
In summary, the announcement of the "DAIMA Character Pack 1" for Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO marks a significant moment for the game. With a well-rounded character lineup and engaging gameplay mechanics, this DLC promises to enhance the overall player experience. As Bandai Namco continues to roll out new content, players can expect to see even more captivating additions that will keep the spirit of the Dragon Ball universe alive and thriving in the gaming world.
