With the extensive legacy of over 9,000 video games inspired by Akira Toriyama’s beloved Dragon Ball series, identifying the top titles within this vast collection presents a formidable challenge. This plethora of games often features many mediocre releases that fail to distinguish themselves, making it challenging for fans to pinpoint the gems. Nonetheless, the crème de la crème of Dragon Ball games truly stand the test of time.
The journey began in 1986 with the launch of Dragon Ball: Dragon Daihikyō for the Super Cassette Vision, marking the franchise’s inaugural entry into the gaming world. While it would take nearly a decade for Dragon Ball to capture audiences in the West, today hardly a year passes without the release of a new Saiyan-themed fighting game or RPG.
Given the sheer number of titles associated with the franchise, sifting through them to find the best can feel overwhelming. From fan-favorites to hidden treasures, let’s delve into the most remarkable Dragon Ball games that define the series.
For those looking for quick recommendations, here’s a brief overview of the best Dragon Ball* games available across various categories:
- Best Overall: Dragon Ball FighterZ
- Best Story (Adaptation): Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot
- Best Original Story: Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2
- Best Arena Fighter: Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3
- Best 2D Fighter: Dragon Ball FighterZ
- Best Multiplayer: Dragon Ball FighterZ
In addition to these standout titles, special mention deserves to go to Dragon Ball Online, an MMORPG that, despite officially shutting down in 2013, continues to captivate fans through private servers. Its innovative elements–like time travel mechanics and character creation–laid a foundation that future Dragon Ball games would build upon, such as Xenoverse and Fusions. Though its combat and progression could feel dated by modern standards, DBO was ahead of its time, proving that it was more than a mere curiosity.
Transitioning through the history of Dragon Ball games, we come to the recent release, Dragon Ball: Gekishin Squadra, which debuted in September 2025. Despite being free-to-play and tapping into the thriving MOBA genre, it has received mixed responses. Players looking for familiar Dragon Ball excitement might find the mechanics of this genre intriguing, but the real question remains: does it deliver engaging gameplay? Early feedback suggests otherwise, as numbers have dwindled shortly after launch, indicating that its retention may need improvement.
As we explore the earlier titles in the series, Dragon Ball Z: Super Saiya Densetsu emerges as a noteworthy RPG, showcasing Goku’s iconic sagas through a card-based combat system that remains enjoyable, albeit nostalgic. Despite not being widely accessible outside Japan, its charm still attracts enthusiasts eager to experience this unique gameplay style.
For those expressing a love for Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball GT: Transformation stands out as its sole representative in the gaming realm. While generally perceived as a low point for the franchise, the game offers a straightforward beat ’em up experience that might appeal to die-hard fans, despite being overshadowed by better titles.
Each new Dragon Ball game, from handheld adaptations to console mainstays, contributes to the franchise’s rich tapestry. As we reflect upon these titles, it’s evident that Dragon Ball continues to evolve, balancing between nostalgia and innovation, ensuring that both fans new and old can find something resonant within its gameplay and storytelling. Whether revisiting classic experiences or exploring the latest releases, the legacy of Dragon Ball in gaming remains vibrant and deeply influential.
