Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Z on the PlayStation Vita is more than just another fighting game port. It's a testament to the dedication of both the developers and the publisher to a struggling platform. From its download-exclusive status in North America—a bold move for a major licensed title in 2014—to the free Japanese voice patch that arrived two months after launch, the Vita edition stands as the most interesting and arguably the "best" version of a divisive game.
Dragon Ball Z Battle of Gods on PS Vita is a unique take on the series. As a download exclusive, the game offers a more focused and streamlined experience that is tailored specifically to the PS Vita's capabilities. The game features stunning visuals, with beautifully rendered characters and environments that showcase the PS Vita's graphical prowess. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with a variety of modes to choose from, including a story mode, versus mode, and a training mode.
What made this update truly noteworthy was its exclusivity. The DLC was, as confirmed by multiple gaming outlets, . While the console versions already had Japanese voice options from the start, the fact that Bandai Namco went out of its way to create a post-launch patch specifically for the PS Vita demonstrated a commitment to the portable platform's dedicated player base.
Unlike many handheld ports of the era, the Vita version of Battle of Z is essentially the same game as the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions. It includes the full roster of over 70 characters and all the same mission structures.
On the original PS Vita (PCH-1000), the cel-shaded art style and colorful energy blasts pop significantly better than they do on standard television screens of that era. Performance: Physical Cartridge vs. Digital Download