Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 – Extra Pass

Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 – Extra Pass is a DLC expansion for the popular fighting RPG, introducing the ‘Infinite History Saga,’ a unique story mode where players, as the Future Warrior, team up with their instructor to confront new threats, including the enigmatic scientist Fu. The saga features branching narratives based on the player’s chosen partner and decisions, as they uncover the true mastermind behind a plot for revenge against the Time Patrol. Set in the expanded Dragon Ball universe, this DLC adds fresh content, battles, and lore to the base game, enhancing the experience with new challenges and storylines.

Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 – Extra Pass: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 – Extra Pass is a monumental expansion to the already sprawling Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2, offering fans an unprecedented depth of content, narrative intrigue, and gameplay innovation. Released in December 2018, this DLC bundle encapsulates the essence of what makes the Xenoverse series a beloved staple in the Dragon Ball gaming universe. With its introduction of new characters, intricate storylines, and enhanced gameplay mechanics, the Extra Pass not only extends the lifespan of Xenoverse 2 but also redefines the boundaries of fan service and interactive storytelling within the franchise.

Development History & Context

Developed by Dimps and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 was already a critical and commercial success upon its initial release in 2016. The Extra Pass emerged as a response to the game’s enduring popularity, aiming to capitalize on its robust foundation while introducing fresh narratives and characters that resonate with the series’ lore. The development team, led by directors Yuka Kobayashi and Takeshi Sakamoto, sought to create an expansion that would not only satisfy longtime fans but also attract new players with its rich, branching storylines and dynamic gameplay.

The Extra Pass was designed to be a compilation of four content packs, each introducing new playable characters, exclusive scenarios, parallel quests, and additional customization options. This approach allowed the developers to maintain a steady stream of content, ensuring that the game remained relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of fighting games. The inclusion of characters like Fu, Jiren, and Ultra Instinct Goku was a strategic move to align with the ongoing Dragon Ball Super anime, thereby keeping the game’s narrative in sync with the broader Dragon Ball universe.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

The Extra Pass introduces the Infinite History Saga, a narrative expansion that diverges from the main storyline of Xenoverse 2 while maintaining its core themes of time manipulation and multiversal conflict. The saga revolves around Fu, a mysterious scientist with the ability to absorb energy from temporal distortions. Fu’s introduction adds a layer of complexity to the game’s lore, as he is revealed to be the son of Towa and Mira, the primary antagonists of the base game. His motivations are shrouded in ambiguity, making him a compelling and unpredictable character.

The narrative is structured around six tiers, each presenting unique challenges and branching pathways that depend on the player’s choices and their chosen mentor. This non-linear storytelling approach allows for a high degree of replayability, as players can experience different outcomes based on their decisions. For instance, aligning with Fu or opposing him leads to distinct story arcs, each with its own set of battles and consequences.

Themes of morality, loyalty, and the consequences of altering history are central to the Infinite History Saga. The game explores the ethical dilemmas faced by the Time Patrol, particularly in their interactions with Fu. While Fu’s actions often lead to chaotic and unpredictable outcomes, his ultimate goal—creating “Good Futures”—blurs the line between villainy and heroism. This moral ambiguity is a refreshing departure from the traditional black-and-white morality of Dragon Ball, adding depth to the narrative.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

The Extra Pass builds upon the core gameplay mechanics of Xenoverse 2, introducing new systems and refinements that enhance the overall experience. The combat system remains largely unchanged, retaining the fast-paced, combo-driven battles that the series is known for. However, the introduction of new characters and their unique abilities adds fresh dynamics to the gameplay.

Character Progression is a key focus of the Extra Pass. Players can continue to develop their custom avatar, known as the Future Warrior, through a series of challenging quests and battles. The expansion introduces new Awoken Skills and Super Souls, allowing for greater customization and strategic depth. The Parallel Quests, a staple of the Xenoverse series, are expanded with new scenarios that test the player’s combat prowess and adaptability.

One of the standout features of the Extra Pass is the mentor system, which allows players to choose a mentor from a roster of iconic Dragon Ball characters. Each mentor offers unique dialogue, training regimens, and special abilities, further enhancing the game’s replayability. The Infinite History Saga also introduces new stages, such as the training space where Goku and Vegeta mastered Godly Ki, adding variety to the game’s environments.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The Extra Pass excels in its world-building, seamlessly integrating new characters and locations into the established Dragon Ball universe. The Infinite History Saga introduces a multitude of alternate timelines and dimensions, each with its own distinct aesthetic and atmosphere. The Crack of Time, a prison dimension used by Demigra, is a particularly striking addition, with its eerie, otherworldly design.

The art direction of the Extra Pass is consistent with the cel-shaded visuals of the base game, maintaining the series’ signature anime aesthetic. The character models are meticulously detailed, with fluid animations that capture the essence of Dragon Ball‘s dynamic action. The sound design is equally impressive, featuring a mix of iconic sound effects and a stirring original soundtrack that complements the game’s epic battles.

Reception & Legacy

Upon its release, the Extra Pass was met with positive reception from both critics and players. The expansion was praised for its rich narrative content, new characters, and enhanced gameplay mechanics. However, some critics noted that the Extra Pass was priced steeply, particularly for players who had already invested in the base game and previous DLCs.

The Extra Pass has had a lasting impact on the Dragon Ball gaming community, setting a new standard for post-launch content in fighting games. Its success has influenced subsequent Dragon Ball titles, particularly in terms of narrative depth and character customization. The introduction of Fu as a major antagonist has also had a ripple effect, with the character appearing in later Dragon Ball media, further cementing the Extra Pass‘s place in the franchise’s lore.

Conclusion

Dragon Ball: Xenoverse 2 – Extra Pass is a masterful expansion that builds upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing innovative narrative and gameplay elements. Its Infinite History Saga is a standout feature, offering a compelling story that explores the moral complexities of time manipulation. The addition of new characters, stages, and customization options ensures that the game remains fresh and engaging, even for veteran players.

While the Extra Pass is not without its flaws—particularly its high price point—it is undeniably a must-have for fans of the Dragon Ball series. Its rich storytelling, dynamic gameplay, and expansive content make it a worthy addition to any Dragon Ball enthusiast’s collection. In the pantheon of Dragon Ball games, the Extra Pass stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise and its ability to evolve with its audience.