The Dragon Ball franchise has been a powerhouse in the world of video games, and bothDragon Ball: Sparking ZeroandXenoverse 2are standout titles that offer different experiences. Sparking Zero focuses on fast-paced, competitive combat with highly polished graphics and gameplay, while Xenoverse 2 delivers a more immersive, story-driven experience with extensive customization options.
Both games have unique strengths, but which one comes out on top? In this comparison, we’ll break down key aspects such as story, gameplay, and multiplayer modes to help you decide which Dragon Ball game is truly better, or at least which one is right for you.
7Graphics – Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero
Sharper Visuals
When it comes to visuals, Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero has a clear advantage, since the game boasts incredibly sharp graphics with smooth, fast-paced animations that capture the energy and style of the series perfectly. Every character is beautifully rendered, and the action flows seamlessly, making each battle feel like a scene straight from the show.
Xenoverse 2 still looks great, but its slightly older engine results in less refined character models and occasional frame drops. While both games are visually appealing, Sparking Zero provides a more polished graphical experience, particularly in the design of the special abilities.
6Story – Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2
A Time-Traveling Epic
If you’re looking for a new story experience set in the Dragon Ball universe, Xenoverse 2 takes the crown. The game revolves around the Time Patrol, a group led bya Trunks variantthat is tasked with fixing distortions in the main timeline of Dragon Ball, tasking you to fix any inconsistencies that might jeopardize the canon storyline.
The narrative expands beyond Dragon Ball Z, covering events from Super and GT, giving fans a lot to sink their teeth into. Sparking Zero has some elements of alternative storytelling, like unlockable What if? scenarios, but when it comes to experiencing a curated original tale, Xenoverse 2 definitely wins.
5Gameplay – Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero
Fast, Tight, And Fluid Combat
When it comes to gameplay, Sparking Zero is unmatched, since it is designed for players who crave intense fighting mechanics and want to test their skills in competitive modes. The game’s combat system is tight and responsive, with a variety of characters and unique abilities adding layers of strategy to every encounter.
While Xenoverse 2 offers a more RPG-like experience with character progression and exploration, its combat isn’t as fast or polished as Sparking Zero’s, making the latter the superior option for both fighting game fans and fans of Dragon Ball-styled fight scenes.
4Customization – Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2
Create Your Own Fighter
One of Xenoverse 2’s strongest points is its robust character customization system. Players can create their own unique fighter, choosing from multiple races (Saiyan, Namekian, Majin, andeven the Frieza race) and customizing everything from appearance to abilities.
This adds a personal touch to the game, allowing you to insert yourself into the Dragon Ball universe and take on iconic characters with your own creations. Sparking Zero, on the other hand, sticks to the established roster, so players looking for deep customization will find more satisfaction in Xenoverse 2.
3Special Modes – Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero
Custom Battle For Endless Fun
Sparking Zero excels in offering special modes that enhance replayability. The standout mode is the Custom Battle feature, which lets you create your own battle scenarios, tweaking the rules and settings to your liking.
Whether it’s recreating iconic fights or setting up challenging custom rules, Sparking Zero offers a level of creative freedom that makes it a joy for longtime fans of the series. While Xenoverse 2 has some side activities, its special modes don’t offer the same level of customization and flexibility, giving Sparking Zero the edge in this category.
2Multiplayer – Tie
Fight It Out With Friends
Both games offer multiplayer modes, but their strengths lie in different areas. Xenoverse 2 shines in local multiplayer, where players can team up or compete in split-screen co-op or versus modes, and since its multiplayer modes are built with casual play in mind, they are great for friends who want to dive into the Dragon Ball universe together.
Sparking Zero, however, dominates in online multiplayer. The game’s fast, competitive gameplay and tournament modes make it the go-to choice for players who want to test their skills against others in ranked matches, although local multiplayer, while present, is reserved for the Hyperbolic Time Chamber stage.
1Winner - Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero
The Better Overall Experience
While both games offer unique experiences, Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero comes out as the better game overall. Its superior graphics, fluid gameplay, and creative modes give it an edge over Xenoverse 2, especially for players who prioritize action and competitive play.
However, Xenoverse 2 holds its own with its rich story, deep customization options, and strong local multiplayer. For fans of the Dragon Ball narrative, Xenoverse 2 is a worthwhile experience, especially if you ever wanted to be part of the Z fighters yourself.
In short, both games can be enjoyed on their own merits, one where you are the main character, and the other where you can pick your favorite Dragon Ball hero and see them shine. If you need to choose between one or the other, however, Sparking Zero is the clear best choice, even if some battles areharder than others.
