During Nintendo`s July Partner Direct, Bandai Namco officially announced that “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero” will be released on both the Switch 2 and original Switch consoles. These Nintendo versions are designed to offer the same core gameplay experience as the PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC counterparts, which debuted last year. A notable new feature for Switch players is the inclusion of motion control support for specific attacks, such as Goku`s iconic Spirit Bomb ultimate ability. “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero” is slated for a November 14 release and can now be preordered in various forms on the Switch platforms. Options include a $60 physical standard edition and several digital editions packed with additional content. A significant incentive for preordering any version is the early access to several characters from the game`s expansive roster.
Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Preorder Bonus
Customers who preorder “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero” for either the Switch 2 or Switch will receive exclusive early bonuses. This includes Goku`s child form, as seen in the latest “Dragon Ball Daima” anime, available as a playable character. Additionally, preorders grant immediate access to six unique variations of both Gogeta (the powerful fusion of Goku and Vegeta) and Broly. While the game boasts an impressive 182-character roster, these early unlocks provide a significant head start. The full list of preorder bonus characters for the Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch versions includes:
- Goku (Mini)
- Gogeta (Base form)
- Gogeta (Super Saiyan)
- Gogeta (Super Saiyan Blue)
- Broly (Base form)
- Broly (Super Saiyan)
- Broly (Legendary Super Saiyan)
Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Standard Edition (Switch 2 and Switch)
Both the Nintendo Switch 2 and original Switch editions of “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero” provide the core game along with the aforementioned bonus and early character unlocks for those who preorder. The standard physical edition is priced at $60 and can be found at various online retailers, while digital preorders are also available directly on the Nintendo eShop. A key distinction to be aware of is that the Switch 2 version will be a “Game-Key Card” release. This means the physical cartridge will not contain the game data itself but will function as a physical license, requiring players to download the full digital version to their console. In contrast, the original Switch version will have all game data pre-loaded onto the cartridge. There is currently no indication from Bandai Namco regarding an upgrade path from the original Switch to the Switch 2 edition. While performance on the original Switch remains to be fully seen, Bandai Namco has confirmed that the enhanced hardware of the Switch 2 will naturally provide superior graphical fidelity.
Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Digital Deluxe Edition (Switch 2 and Switch)
$90 | Releases November 14
Beyond the physical standard release, “Sparking Zero” will also offer two exclusive digital-only versions for both Switch 2 and Switch, each providing extra content. The first of these is the “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Digital Deluxe Edition,” which bundles the base game with a comprehensive Season Pass. This pass grants access to future content, including new story campaigns and additional playable characters. The Season Pass is set to include:
- Four DLC Packs based on Dragon Ball: Super Hero, Dragon Ball Daima, and more
- Over 20 additional playable characters
- Summon Shenron ability
The Digital Deluxe Edition of “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero” can be preordered for $90 via the Nintendo eShop. This preorder also grants the exclusive Goku (Mini) character and the early unlocks for Gogeta and Broly variations. It`s important to note that all content included in the Season Pass will also be made available for individual purchase at a later time.
Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Ultimate Edition (Switch 2 and Switch)
$100 | Releases November 14
The most comprehensive digital offering is the “Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Ultimate Edition,” priced at $100. This edition encompasses all content from the Digital Deluxe Edition, along with several exclusive ultimate-tier additions:
- Goku (Super) Costume with Power Pole
- Emote Voice Set
- 2 player card backgrounds
- 1 customization item that increases a character`s fighting ability
- Summon Super Shenron ability
Preorders are available on the Nintendo eShop.
Although the “Dragon Ball” franchise boasts a rich history of video games, “Sparking Zero” stands out as arguably the most ambitious installment to date. It serves as a grand tribute to the entire “Dragon Ball” saga, featuring an astounding roster of 182 characters drawn from various anime series and films. Beyond its extensive single-player campaign, which covers multiple iconic “Dragon Ball” sagas, the game introduces a unique mode allowing players to alter the outcomes of famous moments from the series. Furthermore, it supports both online and local multiplayer, accommodating up to six players.
Several other excellent “Dragon Ball” games are currently available for the Nintendo Switch, all of which will also be backward compatible with the upcoming Switch 2. For fans seeking another fighting game experience, “Dragon Ball FighterZ” is a top-tier title in the genre. Created by Arc System Works, the renowned developer behind “Guilty Gear,” “Dragon Ball FighterZ” delivers a 2.5D tag-team fighting experience. Its roster features characters from “Dragon Ball Z,” “GT,” and “Super,” offering a more classic fighting game feel distinct from “Sparking Zero`s” 3D action. This title is available for $25.
If a narrative-driven single-player “Dragon Ball” adventure is what you seek, “Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot” offers a compelling option. This game faithfully retells Goku`s entire saga from “Dragon Ball Z,” enhanced with action-RPG elements like rewarding progression and character customization as you traverse the anime`s memorable landscapes. It has also received numerous post-launch expansions that delve into additional “Dragon Ball” narratives, including arcs from “Dragon Ball Super” and “Dragon Ball Daima.” Another noteworthy title is “Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2,” where players can design their own unique character and join forces with Goku and other Z Warriors to safeguard the fabric of time and space. Despite being an older entry, “Xenoverse 2” has benefited from continuous DLC support over the years, ensuring its roster remains current with the latest “Dragon Ball” media.
More Dragon Ball Games on Switch
- Dragon Ball FighterZ — $25
- Dragon Ball Kakarot — $32.45
- Dragon Ball Kakarot: Daima Edition — $50
- Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 — $25 ($30)