Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2 (2003)

by Christopher June 9, 2019

written by Christopher June 9, 2019 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2003
Genres: Fighting
Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2
Developers: Dimps
Publishers: Atari, Inc., Bandai

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2 (2003): The Ultimate Dragon Ball Z Experience

Released in 2003, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2 is a fighting game developed by Dimps and published by Bandai for the PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Xbox. It is the sequel to the successful Dragon Ball Z: Budokai, and it improves upon its predecessor in every way.

Gameplay

Budokai 2 features fast-paced, action-packed combat that is both accessible to newcomers and deep enough to satisfy experienced fighting game fans. The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, but there is a wide range of advanced techniques that can be mastered to gain an edge over opponents.

One of the most significant additions to Budokai 2 is the new “Dragon World” mode. This single-player mode allows players to explore a vast world map and complete a variety of missions. These missions range from simple battles to complex puzzles, and they provide a great way to learn the game’s mechanics and unlock new characters.

Characters

Budokai 2 features a huge roster of characters, including all of the major characters from the Dragon Ball Z anime and manga. Each character has their own unique fighting style and special moves, and they can be customized with a variety of different outfits and accessories.

In addition to the main roster, Budokai 2 also features a number of secret characters that can be unlocked by completing certain challenges. These secret characters include fan favorites such as Broly, Cooler, and Janemba.

Graphics and Sound

Budokai 2’s graphics are some of the best that the PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Xbox have to offer. The character models are detailed and expressive, and the environments are lush and colorful. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of original compositions and classic themes from the anime.

Reception

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2 was a critical and commercial success. The game received rave reviews from critics, who praised its gameplay, graphics, and sound. It was also a commercial success, selling over 4 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2 is considered to be one of the best Dragon Ball Z games ever made. It set a new standard for Dragon Ball Z fighting games, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans today.

Conclusion

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2 is the ultimate Dragon Ball Z experience. It features fast-paced, action-packed combat, a huge roster of characters, beautiful graphics, and an excellent soundtrack. Whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a longtime fan, Budokai 2 is a must-play.

Score: 9/10

Pros:

Fast-paced, action-packed combat
Huge roster of characters
Beautiful graphics
Excellent soundtrack
Deep and rewarding gameplay

Cons:

Can be difficult for newcomers to master
Some of the missions in Dragon World can be repetitive

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.