Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, the highly anticipated arena fighter from Bandai Namco, has achieved a phenomenal launch, selling over 3 million copies worldwide within its first 24 hours of release. This remarkable feat solidifies the game’s position as one of the most successful launches in the Dragon Ball franchise and the fighting game genre as a whole.
Record-Breaking Success
【ニュースリリース配信】
「ドラゴンボールZ Sparking!」シリーズ最新作『ドラゴンボール Sparking! ZERO』
発売24時間で世界累計販売本数300万本を突破
詳細は以下よりご確認下さい。https://t.co/aZfsFT9uy3 pic.twitter.com/9UKMzKMkds— バンダイナムコエンターテインメント公式 (@bnei876) October 15, 2024
The game, which launched on October 10, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, has surpassed expectations and set new benchmarks for the series. This impressive sales figure encompasses both the initial launch day and the following day when it became available in all regions. Bandai Namco attributes this success to several factors:
- An extensive marketing campaign
- The long-awaited return of the beloved Budokai Tenkaichi series
- Positive critical reception
Critical Acclaim
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero has been met with widespread praise from critics and fans alike. The game currently holds an 81 on Metacritic and an 82 on OpenCritic. Many reviewers have lauded it as a worthy successor to Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3, which was released in 2007. Key aspects of the game that have received particular praise include:
- Extensive and detailed character roster
- Virtually limitless game modes
- Impressive visuals and dynamic gameplay
- Skillful revival of the Budokai Tenkaichi legacy
Comparison to Other Fighting Game Launches
To put this achievement into perspective, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero’s launch sales significantly outpace those of other recent fighting game releases:
- Street Fighter 6 took over six months to reach 3 million sales
- Tekken 8 managed 2 million sales in just under three weeks
- Resident Evil 4 remake took two days to reach the 3 million milestone
Impact on the Fighting Game Genre
The tremendous success of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero may herald a new trend in the fighting game industry, potentially elevating 3D arena fighters to compete with more traditional genres like battle royales and online shooters. This could lead to a significant shift in the gaming landscape, reminiscent of the industry changes seen in the 1990s.
Looking Ahead
With such a strong start, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is poised for long-term success. Fans can likely expect continued support and potential additional content from developers Spike Chunsoft and publisher Bandai Namco in the coming months. As the game continues to captivate players worldwide, it’s clear that Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero has not only met but exceeded the high expectations set by its predecessors, cementing its place as a must-play title for both Dragon Ball enthusiasts and fighting game fans alike.
Source:- bandainamcoent.co.jp
