DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT

DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT is a role-playing action game developed by CyberConnect2 and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment.

Unlike traditional fighting titles in the Dragon Ball franchise, this installment dives deep into Goku’s story, letting players relive iconic arcs from the anime with RPG elements, exploration, and side activities.



Instead of focusing solely on combat, it offers a broader experience where you can fish, eat, explore, and interact with beloved characters.

The DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT for PC game positions itself as the ultimate Dragon Ball Z role-playing adventure for fans who want to step into Goku’s world.

Main Features

The game covers the entire Dragon Ball Z saga, from the Saiyan Saga through the Buu Saga, and includes several DLC packs that expand the content further. Features include:

• Reliving iconic DBZ arcs with cinematic cutscenes.
• Semi-open world exploration with side quests and activities.
• Combat with over-the-shoulder action and special moves.
• RPG progression via skill trees and character levels.
• The Z Encyclopedia, offering lore and character backstories.
• Dragon Ball collection and Shenron wish system.
• Online battles through the CARD WARRIORS mode.

User Interface

The interface is bright, colorful, and reminiscent of anime design. Menus are clean, but some options show their console-centric roots, requiring multiple steps to navigate on PC.



The HUD during combat is straightforward, with health, Ki, and support gauges easy to read. While functional, it can feel cluttered in high-intensity battles.

A useful addition is the Community Board system, though its explanations are limited, leaving many players confused until much later.

Installation and Setup

Installation via Steam is simple, requiring roughly 36-40 GB of storage space. On mid-range PCs, setup is straightforward, though older systems may encounter crashes and screen tearing.

The game saves automatically but lacks multiple autosave slots, which can frustrate players if they encounter bugs. Adjusting graphics settings, such as shadows and post-processing, helps reduce issues.

How to Play

Gameplay mixes story missions, side quests, and activities like fishing, racing, and hunting. Players follow a largely linear narrative but can explore large zones between missions.



Combat is fast-paced yet simple: basic melee combos, Ki blasts, and signature moves like Kamehameha form the core mechanics. Blocking, dodging, and support characters add tactical variety, but the depth is less than in pure fighting games.

Outside combat, players can cook meals for permanent stat buffs, train with characters, and upgrade abilities through skill trees. Collecting Dragon Balls allows players to revive old foes for rematches or gain bonuses.

The FileHorse review team highly recommends this outstanding role-playing action game!

FAQs

Is DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT an open world?
Not fully. It has large explorable zones with side quests, but the story keeps you on a set path.

Can you play as characters other than Goku?
Yes, story sections let you control Vegeta, Gohan, Piccolo, and others, though the game decides when.

Is the combat system like Dragon Ball FighterZ?
No. It is more similar to Dragon Ball Xenoverse, with simple over-the-shoulder fighting rather than competitive fighting game mechanics.

Does the game support online multiplayer?
Not in the main story. However, CARD WARRIORS mode provides online competition through a strategic card battle system.

Is the game beginner-friendly for non-fans?
Yes, though it is clearly made for fans. Newcomers may still enjoy the story, but the nostalgic appeal is strongest for those familiar with the anime.



Alternatives

Dragon Ball FighterZ - For players seeking polished, competitive fighting gameplay.

Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 - Offers character customization and larger multiplayer features.

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm series - Also developed by CyberConnect2, with a similar cinematic combat style.

One Piece Odyssey - A comparable anime RPG experience with exploration and story arcs.

What’s New in This Version

Recent updates and DLCs include Daima Adventure Through the Demon Realm and Bardock: Alone Against Fate, adding new quests, storylines, and playable scenarios.

Performance has improved since launch, but some players still report crashes. Seasonal promotions also bundle expansions with discounted editions.

Pricing

The base game retails at €19.99 (discounted to €14.99 in promotions). Editions such as Daima and Master Edition bundle DLC, ranging from €39.99 to €79.99.

DLC packs are individually priced between €4.99 and €34.99. A free demo is also available.

Download Now DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT Free Demo.

System Requirements

Minimum:

• OS: Windows 7 SP1 64-bit
• Processor: Intel Core i5-2400 or AMD Phenom II X6 1100T
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Graphics: GeForce GTX 750 Ti or Radeon HD 7950
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 36 GB

Recommended:

• OS: Windows 10 or 11
• Processor: Intel Core i5-3470 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: GeForce GTX 960 or Radeon R9 280X
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 40 GB

PROS

• Faithful adaptation of DBZ story arcs.
• Nostalgic cutscenes that match anime style.
• Large zones with side quests and activities.
• Permanent food buffs add strategy.
• Dragon Ball collection and Shenron wishes.
• Online CARD WARRIORS mode.
• Solid RPG progression through skill trees.
• Memorable music and voice acting.
• Z Encyclopedia for lore enthusiasts.
• Satisfying transformations like Super Saiyan.

CONS

• Side activities often feel unrewarding.
• The combat system lacks depth.
• Enemies overuse Super Armor.
• Occasional cutscene interruptions.
• Some dialogue lacks full voice acting.
• Console-oriented menus on PC.
• Autosave system is limited.
• Grinding can feel unnecessary.
• DLC model stretches content too thin.

Conclusion

DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT is the closest fans will get to living through Goku’s legendary journey in interactive form. It blends RPG exploration, cinematic storytelling, and fast-paced combat into a nostalgic package that captures the heart of Dragon Ball Z.

While technical issues, shallow combat, and repetitive side content hold it back from perfection, it still shines as a must-play for longtime fans of the series. For newcomers, it serves as both a recap and a celebration of one of anime’s most iconic sagas.