First Budokai entry establishing the series-specific combat system. DBZ's iconic transformations and super moves are present. Less accomplished than sequels but already establishing the Budokai franchise DNA. A promising start for fans.
Your verdict
Category
Fighting2 players12+
Description
The Western edition of the first Budokai, released in late 2002 as "Dragon Ball Z - Budokai." The franchise's first proper modern 3D adaptation, by Dimps and Atari, covering the Saiyan to Cell arcs. The simple, readable formula laid the groundwork that later entries would build upon.
Dragon Ball Z - Budokai review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
3/5
Music
★★★★★
"Memorable"
3/5
Story
★★★★★
"Solid"
Gameplay
"Solid"
Fun
"From the very first minutes"
Addictiveness
"Captivating"
Difficulty
"Balanced"
Lifespan
"Long"
Technical info
💾1,8 GB📅02/12/2002
Published by Atari
Dragon Ball Z - Budokai (PS2) price, value & rarity
Is Dragon Ball Z - Budokai still worth playing in 2026?
The first Budokai from Dimps and Atari, this 3D fighting game revisits the Dragon Ball Z narrative arc with a capsule system to equip and customise your fighters and a story mode faithful to the manga. The transformations, the signature attacks and the anime staging win over fans. The stiffness of the clashes and a still limited roster have aged against the sequels. A brawler to recommend for fans of Dragon Ball Z and lovers of arcade versus with original customisation.
