When it comes to DBZ games that raised the bar, Budokai 3 and FighterZ are two fan-favorite titans that redefined the franchise in different eras. Budokai 3 refined the classic PS2-era formula with tight controls, cel-shaded visuals, and one of the best story modes in a Dragon Ball game. Meanwhile, FighterZ brought the franchise into the realm of competitive esports, merging high-speed 2.5D fighting with visuals straight out of the anime. Each game focuses on different strengths—Budokai 3 is all about accessibility, variety, and nostalgic depth, while FighterZ offers one of the most technically refined fighting systems of its generation. So, which game is the definitive Dragon Ball fighting experience?
Campaign
Budokai 3 offers one of the most memorable single-player experiences in Dragon Ball history with its Dragon Universe mode. Instead of a linear retelling, each character has their own path, complete with secret items, alternate timelines, and hidden boss battles. Players can freely fly around the world map, discovering random events and engaging in training. The dialogue varies depending on your choices, and unlocking characters like Broly or Omega Shenron requires exploration and experimentation. What really sells the mode is its replayability and "what-if" scenarios, allowing fans to experience DBZ’s iconic moments—and even alternate versions of them—from different angles.
FighterZ, in contrast, features an entirely original storyline centered on Android 21. The campaign is broken into three arcs—Super Warrior, Enemy Warrior, and Android 21—which eventually converge. It plays out more like a visual novel with grid-based movement and battles in between. While the original story was praised for its animation and new character design, the gameplay loop can feel repetitive, and enemy fights lack variation. Still, it’s fully voice-acted with top-notch cutscenes and dialogue.
In terms of story depth, exploration, and fan-service-filled content, Budokai 3 wins the campaign round, hands down.
Winner: Budokai 3
Gameplay
Budokai 3 focuses on 2.5D traditional fighter mechanics with a DBZ twist. Players chain together melee combos, use Ki strategically, and perform transformations during combat. The game’s teleportation counters, beam struggles, and cinematic ultimate attacks made battles feel like the anime without overwhelming players. Unique systems like Dragon Rush and Hyper Mode gave characters cinematic finishers and moments of desperation that truly captured the high-stakes drama of DBZ. The game balances accessibility and skill, making it approachable for casual players while still offering depth for veterans. Each character feels distinct in move sets and transformations, and the fusion mechanic is a fan favorite.
FighterZ is far more technical, designed from the ground up for competitive play. It features tag-team 3v3 battles, assist mechanics, air dashes, and devastating supers. Combos can be complex, with heavy emphasis on timing, zoning, and counterplay. Its auto-combo system lets newcomers jump in, while experienced players can maximize damage with carefully planned sequences. Characters each bring unique assists and abilities, creating a meta-rich experience. Its fluidity, responsive controls, and combo potential make it one of the best modern fighting games, period. The online matchmaking and tournament support sealed its place in the esports world.
If you're a casual player or a DBZ purist, Budokai 3 still feels great. But for competitive fighting game fans, FighterZ is a masterclass.
Winner: FighterZ
Production
Both games were stunning in their respective generations, but FighterZ takes visual fidelity to another level. Developed by Arc System Works, FighterZ uses an advanced 2.5D cel-shaded style that mirrors the anime almost perfectly. The camera dynamically shifts during supers, and character animations are loaded with personality and references to the show. Explosions, clashes, and finishers explode with color and flair. Cutscenes are fully voiced with excellent performances, and the music blends heavy guitar riffs with dramatic orchestral energy that perfectly fits the action.
Budokai 3 was ahead of its time visually. The cel-shading was clean, with crisp UI and vibrant effects that made attacks satisfying to watch. It lacked destructible environments but made up for it with flashy super attacks and smooth character models. The soundtrack (outside of the Western version’s controversial replacement) carried strong energy, and the Japanese voice acting was available—something rare at the time. The camera work was tight, though more limited due to its 2.5D nature. Despite its age, it holds up surprisingly well and oozes style.
Still, in terms of modern animation, cutscene design, and sound mixing, FighterZ is simply the more polished and cinematic experience.
Winner: FighterZ
Budokai 3 is a nostalgic masterpiece that delivers a great single-player experience and accessible, flashy combat. FighterZ, however, is the most refined DBZ fighter ever made, with esports-tier gameplay and jaw-dropping visuals. One is for the story-driven fan; the other is pure competitive spectacle.
Overall Winner: FighterZ
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