New Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero update adds fan-requested features

The highly anticipated December update for Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero has finally launched. Following months of discussion and speculation about the changes Spike Chunsoft would introduce, the update has exceeded expectations, bringing new mechanics and highly requested features to the game.

Released on December 12, 2024, this update marks the biggest overhaul Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero has received to date. In November, developer Spike Chunsoft conducted a fan poll to determine the most desired DLC updates, offering options such as new playable characters and skins, features like auto-play and increased experience gain, as well as new story content and fixes for balancing and gameplay issues. Fans eagerly awaited the update, curious to see how their feedback would shape the game.
 

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero's most significant update yet
 

One of the most noticeable updates is the improvement to local versus multiplayer mode. Players can now select any stage while playing offline, a significant upgrade from the previous limitation where only the Hyperbolic Time Chamber stage was available. Another quality-of-life enhancement is the revamped character display in the battle setup. Transformations now appear only after selecting a character with multiple forms, streamlining the selection process. Additionally, players can now view Skill counts and Ki requirements for Skills and Blast Skills in the battle setup. Other updates include the ability to skip character animations in Ranked and Player Matches, and the option to keep a player’s team hidden from their opponent while editing it before a Player Match.

The update also introduces several new features, including mechanics that enhance gameplay and rebalance existing ones. A standout addition is the High-Speed Dragon Dash, a quick movement mechanic that allows players to close the distance to their opponents rapidly. Tweaks to existing mechanics include players no longer being stunned by a Rush Ki Blast while charging a Smash Attack, Rush Ki Blasts taking longer to reset after reaching the maximum number of shots, and Z-Search maintaining its lock on enemies even during character swaps. Additionally, certain attacks can no longer hit players immediately after performing a Step. The Skill count required for using Perception against Revenge Counter has also been reduced from 2 to 1.

Several specific character moves have also been adjusted to address the infamous balancing issues in the game. The Health and Ki absorbed by Android 19 and Dr. Gero during a successful throw have been rebalanced, and their Dragon Dash, Quick Ascend, and Quick Descend now consume Ki. Cell (2nd Form)’s throw has been made escapable by opponents, and the Health restored when transforming into Cooler has been increased. Additionally, giant characters like Great Ape Vegeta and Dr. Wheelo have had their maximum Health reduced. Full details can be found in the Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero official patch notes.

The reception from the player base has been overwhelmingly positive. While the highly requested mechanic "Ki Sickness" was not included in this patch, players widely regard the update as a significant improvement to the game. The changes have made the online experience much more enjoyable for everyone. Fans are excited to dive back in, and you might enjoy it too!

With this new update promising a more refined and enjoyable experience, be sure to use our comparator tool to find the best deal for Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero and join in on the top-notch fighting action.