Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is an action RPG that retells the major events of the Dragon Ball Z anime series through a blend of open exploration and real-time combat. Players step into the role of Goku and other Z Fighters across the Saiyan, Frieza, Cell, and Buu story arcs, moving between large explorable zones while advancing the main narrative. The game emphasizes both high-stakes battles and quieter moments of daily life in the Dragon Ball world, including fishing, cooking meals, and training sessions that improve character abilities.
Gameplay
Combat forms the core loop, with players controlling characters in fast-paced fights against enemies scattered throughout the world. Basic attacks chain together through simple button inputs, while four equipped special moves and transformations such as Super Saiyan provide variety during encounters. Switching between party members mid-battle allows for coordinated team attacks that build up through charging mechanics. Outside of fights, players fly freely across zones to collect Z-Orbs, which serve as currency for upgrading skill trees unique to each fighter. Additional systems include cooking dishes that grant temporary stat boosts and placing Soul Emblems on community boards to enhance different aspects of gameplay, such as combat effectiveness or adventure rewards. Side activities like fishing and training further develop characters and provide resources for progression.
Game Modes
The experience centers on a linear story mode divided into the four major Dragon Ball Z sagas, where players follow key events while completing objectives that advance the plot. Within each saga, optional side quests and exploration tasks encourage players to interact with the world and build relationships with supporting heroes. Free-roam sections let players revisit areas to gather items, level up, or engage in mini-games without time pressure. No separate competitive or online modes exist; the focus remains on single-player progression through narrative chapters and personal character growth.
Story and Characters
The narrative follows Goku from his early battles onward, incorporating moments with Gohan, Vegeta, Piccolo, and other Z Fighters. Players control multiple characters at different points, each with distinct move sets and skill trees that unlock as the story unfolds. Bonds form through shared adventures and training, adding depth to the relationships that drive the plot forward. The game recreates iconic scenes with voiced dialogue and cutscenes while allowing players to explore the environments where those events occur.
Current State and Updates
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot continues to receive support years after its initial release, with a free PS5 upgrade that improves performance and loading times for owners of the original version. Additional story content has expanded the game with new scenarios and characters, including recent additions tied to the Dragon Ball Daima series that introduce fresh locations, enemies, and playable fighters. The title has surpassed 10 million units sold, reflecting sustained interest from fans who appreciate the faithful retelling of the source material.
Is It Worth Playing?
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot suits players who enjoy action RPGs centered on a well-known story and character progression rather than pure competitive fighting. Fans of the Dragon Ball Z anime often highlight the satisfying combat and the opportunity to experience the full saga in an interactive format with room for side exploration. Those seeking deep open-world systems or robust multiplayer may find the world and quests less engaging compared to dedicated RPG titles. The game delivers a complete single-player campaign with meaningful upgrades and activities that reward time invested in training and collecting. Recent updates keep the experience fresh for returning players, making it a solid choice for anyone interested in reliving the Z Fighters' journey through a mix of battles and everyday moments in the Dragon Ball universe.
