"A good DBZ RPG considering..."

Quite a good RPG but it's nothing compared to some other more notable ones: FF3/6j or Chrono Trigger. Considering the time it was released, it is a pretty good attempt.

Gameplay: 7/10
I suppose the gameplay in this game is ok, but it's too slow. Flying for instance, you fly at a very slow pace but you get an option to fly faster (a Ki field appears around you) but during this, enemies attack you MUCH more often. And don't even get me started on walking.
Actually, it's not dissimilar to FF3/6j. You can walk/fly around on a giant world map and enter buildings, caves and other things.

On an incredible BAD note, this game doesn't include one side-quest. Meaning the only way you can level up is via random battles and the occasional training sequence. Booooring.

Sound/Music: 5/10
The mono-sounds in this game are repetitive (no boss music for example, just the same boring battle music throughout) and annoying (you can only take a few hours of this music before you switch it the sounds off). But on a good note, punches and kicks are heard when the two characters are fighting, Ki attacks also create a whooshing noise and some other details bring up this score.

Graphics: 8/10
Well, for this system and year released are really quite good. When you do the Ki attacks, a whole animation comes up with the character doing the same sequence you see in the show. The world map is also quite detailed but it's quite boring too, it's as if one strip of land is on a continuous cycle. Another good thing is during battle (like the NES games) the characters fly around the screen hitting each other and occasionally (depending on your PL) fire a Ki blast at each other.

Would I want to play it again ?
The long answer is, no. Unless your a hard-core DBZ fan anyway, or want to play it for nostalgic reasons. The lack of side-quests and the music makes you shudder when you think about it after completion, although when you complete it you do get a slight feeling of satisfaction. Another reason for completing it is the 'secret' ending, and no, it's not the Frieza final boss.

Overall this is a good RPG for it's time and that is why you shouldn't listen to anyone having a go at the game for reasons like the graphics are rubbish.

Rent or Buy ?
Well I suppose if you do see a copy buy it. Think of how much money it will be worth as a collectors item. Or there is the less legal way...

Overall: 7/10

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 02/25/02, Updated 02/25/02