Dragon Ball Z Collectible Card Game

"Worthy of getting only if you don't have time or money for the real thing."

Intro:

The DBZ CCG has quite a large fan base. Quickly becoming one of the largest CCGS out to date. With 10 expansions (well some aren't really expansions) out though, the game is fairly hard to get into. And for some, way too costly to continue. Thankfully, the people of Infogrames have decided to bring the experience of the game onto the tiny screen of the GBA. But frankly, many will be frustrated and too impatient to find enjoyment in the game.

Graphics: 5/10

What can I say? Good detail of cards, and they use the right pictures to as good of detail as the GBA can bring. And the looks of options screens look great, and very much like things from the actual show. but still, the most graphically breaking thing on this entire game is pictures of cards. Which makes it split half and half.

Sound: 1/10

Are you kidding me? Now I knew the game wouldn't have an abundance of sounds but this game is far lacking. Two sounds for the entire game, and a few measly sound effects Barely make it worth noticing. Thank the heavens above for being able to turn off the sounds. Aye yai yai! They needed much improvement on this one.

Presentation: 4/10

Not too bad. Though there's not a single notable animation in the entire game! Some red flashes, pictures clashing, and a few spinning card tricks aren't nearly enough to make a good presentation. Those not interested in card games would become dead bored with this game.

Gameplay: 8/10

Now this is the reason to buy this game (and any game for that matter.) Those wanting the DBZ experience without looking through shoe boxes full of cards will love this game. 300+ cards from the Sayain Saga all the way to the Android Saga, and a few promos, will give you the ability to make a fairly formidable deck. And these decks will be your sole focus as you go through the game. Opponents aren't exactly the easiest in all the world (especially for newcomers) and you might find yourself building decks just to defeat one opponent. That's a great thing about this game. Unfortunately, they take every opportunity to attack. Only once has a character passed against me in combat. And of all things... this game moves so SLOWLY! They always have to declare what step they are in, the lousy animations of drawing cards have to be witnessed every single time make battles take forever, even if they're insanely simple.

Final:

Is it good enough to own? If you want the card game without the cards or just crave a new card game game besides Yu-Gi-Oh! Then this could be a great choice. Multi player gives this game a longevity that's always valuable in games. And the selection of cards (although attaining them is really slow) will make you want to keep playing it. If you're broke and want to play the CCG go with this. The gameplay will certainly attract those looking for this genre.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 10/08/02, Updated 10/08/02