When it comes to selecting the greatest Dragon Ball video games of all time, the task is no easy feat. With a vast array of titles based on Akira Toriyama's iconic manga and anime series, narrowing down the list to the very best is a challenge. Nonetheless, these games have left an indelible mark on fans, offering thrilling experiences that have stood the test of time.
Since the franchise's first gaming venture in 1986 with the release of Dragon Ball: Dragon Daihikyō, the world has witnessed a surge of Saiyan-themed games across various platforms. From epic fighting games to immersive RPGs, the Dragon Ball gaming legacy continues to captivate audiences.
Updated on December 23, 2023, by Mark Sammut, this ranking presents the top Dragon Ball games to date. Let's dive into the exhilarating world of Dragon Ball gaming and uncover the standout titles that have left an unforgettable impression on fans.
24 Dragon Ball Z: Battle Of Z
Metascore: 66 (PS Vita)
Released in 2014, Dragon Ball Z: Battle Of Z faced criticism for its by-the-numbers storyline and simplistic combat. While its console performance left much to be desired, the game found success on Sony's PS Vita. With a focus on team-building and co-op play, Battle of Z offered a refreshing take on the Dragon Ball universe, standing out as a notable entry on the PS Vita.
23 Dragon Ball Z: Attack Of The Saiyans
Metascore: 73
Nintendo's handheld systems inspired Dragon Ball Z: Attack Of The Saiyans, offering a turn-based RPG experience that covered a fraction of the series' storyline. While not groundbreaking, the game provided a serviceable RPG adventure, catering to both fans of the franchise and the genre.
22 Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle
Metascore: 71
Dragon Ball Z Dokkan Battle introduced a unique gameplay twist, incorporating puzzle elements into its battles. While not on par with the franchise's top console games, it established itself as a respectable entry in the mobile gaming space.
21 Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors
Metascore: 73
The Game Boy Advance boasted a selection of Dragon Ball games, with Supersonic Warriors filling the console's fighting game niche. Despite its rough mechanics, the game's story mode and character-specific scenarios added depth to the overall experience, making it a notable addition to the franchise's handheld lineup.
20 Dragon Ball: Origins
Metascore: 78
Dragon Ball: Origins highlighted the original series' adventure and comedy elements, offering a refreshing departure from combat-driven gameplay. With solid visuals and endearing nods to Toriyama's work, the Origins series presented a compelling option for fans seeking a unique Dragon Ball adventure.
19 Super Dragon Ball Z
Metascore: 72
Before Arc System Works' involvement, Super Dragon Ball Z aimed to deliver a legitimate fighting game experience. With a curated roster and a focus on skill-based combat, the game offered a traditional fighter that resonated with fans seeking a more technical gameplay approach.
18 Dragon Ball Legends
Metascore: 69
Dragon Ball Legends provided a mobile experience that bridged the gap between traditional fighters and card-based battles, offering an accessible yet strategic combat system. With an impressive roster and engaging story, the game found success in captivating players on the go.
17 Dragon Ball Z: Burst Limit
Metascore: 72
Set within the Xbox 360 generation, Dragon Ball Z: Burst Limit, despite its limitations, offered visually impressive gameplay and faster combat mechanics. While not without flaws, the game showcased the potential for engaging fighting experiences within the franchise.
16 Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure
Metascore: 75
Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure offered a blend of side-scrolling beat 'em up and fighting game mechanics, catering to fans seeking diverse gameplay experiences. With a focus on the original Dragon Ball anime, the game provided an engaging alternative to the franchise's traditional offerings.
15 Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2
Metascore: 60
Despite comparisons to its predecessors, Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 distinguished itself as an underrated fighter in the franchise. With simplified gameplay and unique character abilities, the game offered a solid gaming experience for both new and seasoned fans.
14 Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors 2
Metascore: 66
Building on its predecessor, Supersonic Warriors 2 offered improved gameplay mechanics, enhancing the overall fighting experience on the Nintendo DS. With a diverse roster and refined combat, the game managed to captivate fans despite certain narrative limitations.
13 Dragon Ball: Shin Budokai - Another Road
Metascore: 65
Exploring a lesser-known storyline, Dragon Ball: Shin Budokai - Another Road brought fresh gameplay mechanics to the PSP, offering a distinct gaming experience for fans. With improved combat and an original narrative, the game stood out as a notable addition to the Budokai series.
12 Dragon Ball Fusions
Metascore: 72
Delving into the concept of Fusion, Dragon Ball Fusions offered a compelling exploration of the franchise's unique gameplay elements. With a vast open world and engaging RPG mechanics, the game provided a captivating experience that delighted fans.
11 Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot
Metascore: 76
Despite the franchise's extensive storytelling, Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot managed to present a fresh perspective on the iconic saga, offering a memorable RPG experience for fans. With engaging combat and clever easter eggs, the game emerged as a standout entry for Dragon Ball enthusiasts.
10 Super Dragon Ball Heroes: World Mission
Metascore: 72
Bringing the popular arcade trading game to a wider audience, Super Dragon Ball Heroes: World Mission offered an immersive card-based gameplay experience. Despite certain limitations, the game's depth and extensive card collection earned it a place among the top Dragon Ball titles.
9 Dragon Ball Z: Super Butoden 2
Metascore: N/A
Marking an essential part of the franchise's gaming history, Dragon Ball Z: Super Butoden 2 delivered an authentic and action-packed experience for fans. Despite its age, the game's influence and legacy have left a lasting impact on Dragon Ball's gaming universe.
8 Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2
Metascore: 78
Paving the way for a resurgence in the franchise's console games, Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 offered a deep and customizable gaming experience. With an expansive world and engaging combat, the game reinvigorated the franchise's gaming legacy for a new generation of players.
7 Dragon Ball Z: The Legend
Metascore: N/A
Surpassing its contemporaries, Dragon Ball Z: The Legend stood out as a captivating and strategic fighter. With an extensive roster and immersive gameplay, the game left an enduring legacy, earning its place among the top Dragon Ball titles.
6 Dragon Ball Z: Legendary Super Warriors
Metascore: N/A
Exploring new gameplay mechanics, Dragon Ball Z: Legendary Super Warriors offered a unique and compelling fighting game experience. With its distinct blend of turn-based strategy and card-based mechanics, the game stood out as a remarkable addition to the franchise's handheld lineup.
5 Dragon Ball Z: Hyper Dimension
Metascore: N/A
Revolutionizing Dragon Ball's fighting game legacy, Dragon Ball Z: Hyper Dimension set a new standard for the franchise. With engaging combat and dynamic gameplay, the game remains an influential and beloved title in the Dragon Ball gaming universe.