Dragon Ball FighterZ: FighterZ Pass 2

Dragon Ball FighterZ: FighterZ Pass 2 is a downloadable content expansion for the popular 2.5D fighting game Dragon Ball FighterZ, developed by Arc System Works and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released on January 31, 2019, this DLC introduces six new playable characters—Jiren, Videl, Goku (GT), Janemba, Gogeta (SSGSS), and Broly (DBS)—each bringing unique abilities and fighting styles to the game. The pass also includes additional commentator voice packs, enhancing the overall experience for fans of the Dragon Ball franchise. Set in the vibrant and action-packed universe of Dragon Ball, the game maintains its fast-paced, team-based combat mechanics, allowing players to assemble teams of three fighters and engage in intense battles against AI or human opponents.

Dragon Ball FighterZ: FighterZ Pass 2 – A Masterclass in DLC Done Right

Introduction: The Evolution of a Fighting Game Phenomenon

Dragon Ball FighterZ stormed onto the scene in 2018, redefining what a licensed fighting game could achieve. Developed by Arc System Works—a studio renowned for its work on Guilty Gear and BlazBlue—and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, the game was an instant critical and commercial success. Its cel-shaded visuals, faithful to Akira Toriyama’s iconic art style, combined with fluid, fast-paced combat, made it a standout title in the crowded fighting game genre. By the time FighterZ Pass 2 launched on January 31, 2019, the game had already sold millions of copies and cemented its place as a staple in competitive gaming circuits.

FighterZ Pass 2 was not just another DLC pack; it was a statement. Following the success of the first season pass, which introduced fan-favorite characters like Bardock and Broly, the second pass aimed to expand the roster with a mix of nostalgic callbacks and fresh faces. Priced at $24.99 (or $9.99 on Steam during promotions), the pass included six characters: Jiren, Videl, Goku (GT), Janemba, Gogeta (SSGSS), and Broly (DBS). It also bundled Commentator Voice Packs 2, 3, and 4, adding layers of immersion for competitive players.

This review will dissect FighterZ Pass 2 in exhaustive detail, exploring its development context, narrative contributions, gameplay mechanics, artistic achievements, and lasting legacy. By the end, we’ll determine whether this DLC was a mere cash grab or a vital evolution of an already stellar game.

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Development History & Context: The Arc System Works Touch

The Studio Behind the Magic

Arc System Works is no stranger to the fighting game genre. With a portfolio that includes Guilty Gear Xrd and BlazBlue: Central Fiction, the studio has earned a reputation for crafting visually stunning, mechanically deep fighters. Their collaboration with Bandai Namco on Dragon Ball FighterZ was a match made in heaven. The studio’s expertise in 2.5D fighting games—where 3D models are rendered to mimic 2D animation—allowed them to capture the essence of Dragon Ball’s dynamic battles.

The game’s director, Junya “C” Motomura, and producer Tomoko Hiroki faced a unique challenge: balancing the power disparities inherent in Dragon Ball’s lore. As Hiroki noted in interviews, it would feel “odd” for Krillin to defeat Goku in a one-on-one fight. The solution? A three-on-three team-based system, inspired by Marvel vs. Capcom but refined to fit Dragon Ball’s narrative and mechanical needs. This system allowed for strategic depth while staying true to the source material’s power scaling.

The FighterZ Pass Model

The FighterZ Pass model was a response to the modern fighting game landscape, where post-launch support is crucial for longevity. The first pass introduced eight characters, including fan favorites like Bardock and Cooler, while the second pass aimed to diversify the roster further. The inclusion of Videl, a non-Saiyan human, and Jiren, a god-like warrior from Dragon Ball Super, showcased the developers’ commitment to representing the franchise’s breadth.

The pass was announced during the Red Bull Final Summoning tournament in January 2019, a strategic move to capitalize on the game’s competitive scene. The timing was perfect: the Dragon Ball Super: Broly film had just released, making Broly (DBS) and Gogeta (SSGSS) timely additions. This synergy between the anime and the game highlighted Bandai Namco’s marketing prowess.

Technological Constraints and Innovations

Dragon Ball FighterZ runs on Unreal Engine 4, a choice that allowed Arc System Works to push the boundaries of cel-shaded animation. The engine’s flexibility enabled the studio to create Dramatic Finishes, cinematic sequences triggered by specific moves, and Shenron Wishes, a mechanic that grants players temporary advantages like health regeneration or revived teammates.

However, the game’s online functionality was a persistent pain point. At launch, FighterZ suffered from delay-based netcode, which led to laggy matches and frustrated competitive players. While FighterZ Pass 2 didn’t address this issue directly, it laid the groundwork for future updates, including the eventual introduction of rollback netcode in 2024.

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Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive: Expanding the Dragon Ball Universe

The Story So Far

Dragon Ball FighterZ’s base game introduced Android 21, an original character designed by Akira Toriyama. Her backstory—tied to the Red Ribbon Army and her son, the template for Android 16—added a fresh layer to the Dragon Ball mythos. The game’s Story Mode was divided into three arcs:
1. Super Warrior Arc: The player, as a soul linked to Goku, battles clones and resurrected villains.
2. Enemy Warrior Arc: The player possesses Frieza, uniting villains and heroes against Android 21.
3. Android 21 Arc: The player controls Android 18, uncovering 21’s dual nature and her struggle with her Majin form.

While FighterZ Pass 2 didn’t introduce new story content, the characters it added enriched the game’s lore. Jiren, the stoic warrior from Universe 11, brought the Tournament of Power arc’s themes of strength and justice. Videl, Gohan’s wife and a martial artist in her own right, represented the human spirit’s resilience. Goku (GT) and Broly (DBS) tapped into nostalgia and modern continuity, respectively.

Character Spotlights: Who Stole the Show?

1. Jiren

   • Role in Lore: Jiren’s philosophy—”strength is absolute justice”—clashed with Goku’s belief in growth through friendship. His inclusion in FighterZ allowed players to experience his overwhelming power firsthand.
   • Gameplay Impact: Jiren’s moveset emphasized brute force, with devastating normals and a Super Armor mechanic on his 236S move. However, his lack of a traditional Dragon Rush combo extender made him feel incomplete to some players.

2. Videl

   • Role in Lore: Videl’s addition was a nod to the Dragon Ball Z era, where she evolved from a bratty teenager to a capable fighter. Her inclusion highlighted the franchise’s human characters, often overshadowed by Saiyans.
   • Gameplay Impact: Videl’s Flying Kick and Justice Combination moves made her a rushdown specialist. However, her lack of a Ki Blast projectile limited her neutral game, making her a niche pick.

3. Goku (GT)

   • Role in Lore: Dragon Ball GT remains divisive among fans, but Goku’s Super Saiyan 4 form is iconic. His inclusion was a love letter to longtime fans.
   • Gameplay Impact: GT Goku’s 10-Hit Combo and Super Spirit Bomb made him a combo monster. His small hitbox and high damage output quickly made him a top-tier pick, dominating tournaments.

4. Janemba

   • Role in Lore: A demon from Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn, Janemba’s chaotic energy and sword-wielding form made him a fan favorite.
   • Gameplay Impact: Janemba’s teleportation and sword slashes gave him a unique playstyle. However, his slow movement and predictable pressure led to his decline in the meta.

5. Gogeta (SSGSS)

   • Role in Lore: The fusion of Goku and Vegeta, Gogeta’s Super Saiyan Blue form debuted in Dragon Ball Super: Broly. His inclusion was a no-brainer.
   • Gameplay Impact: Gogeta’s Stardust Breaker and Meteor Explosion made him a versatile character. However, his poor frame data on some normals held him back from top-tier status.

6. Broly (DBS)

   • Role in Lore: The Dragon Ball Super iteration of Broly reimagined the Legendary Super Saiyan as a tragic figure. His raw power and emotional depth resonated with fans.
   • Gameplay Impact: Broly’s Gigantic Roar and Eraser Cannon made him a grapple-heavy bruiser. His armor on certain moves gave him defensive options, but his slow recovery made him vulnerable to punishments.

Thematic Cohesion: A Celebration of Dragon Ball’s Legacy

FighterZ Pass 2 was more than a character pack; it was a celebration of Dragon Ball’s evolution. From Videl’s human tenacity to Jiren’s godly might, the DLC showcased the franchise’s diversity. The inclusion of GT Goku and DBS Broly bridged the gap between classic and modern Dragon Ball, appealing to fans across generations.

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Gameplay Mechanics & Systems: Depth and Diversity

Core Gameplay Loop: Team Synergy

Dragon Ball FighterZ’s three-on-three format remained unchanged in FighterZ Pass 2, but the new characters introduced fresh dynamics:
– Assist Types: Season 3 (which followed Pass 2) allowed players to choose between A, B, and C assists, but Pass 2 characters laid the groundwork for this diversity.
– Combos and Extensions: Characters like GT Goku and Gogeta introduced new combo routes, while Janemba’s teleports added mind games to neutral play.
– Defensive Options: Broly’s armor and Jiren’s Super Armor provided defensive tools, countering the game’s offensive meta.

Character-Specific Mechanics

1. GT Goku’s 10-Hit Combo

   • A light autocombo that could be canceled into specials, making him a combo machine.
   • His Super Spirit Bomb (Level 3) was one of the most damaging supers in the game.

2. Videl’s Rushdown

   • Her Flying Kick (236L/M/H) could cross up opponents, but her lack of a Ki Blast made her struggle in neutral.

3. Jiren’s Brute Force

   • His 236S had Super Armor, allowing him to tank hits and retaliate.
   • However, his lack of a Dragon Rush made his combos feel linear.

4. Janemba’s Teleports

   • His 214S teleport could be used for mixups or escaping pressure.
   • His sword normals had unique hitboxes, but his slow movement held him back.

5. Gogeta’s Versatility

   • Stardust Breaker (236S) could be used as a combo ender or neutral tool.
   • His Meteor Explosion (214S) was a great anti-air, but his frame data limited his pressure.

6. Broly’s Grapples

   • Gigantic Roar (236L/M/H) could grab opponents from full screen.
   • His Eraser Cannon (214S) was a command grab, but his slow recovery made him predictable.

Balance and Meta Impact

FighterZ Pass 2 shook up the meta, but not all characters were created equal:
– GT Goku became a top-tier pick due to his damage output and small hitbox.
– Broly and Gogeta were mid-tier, with strong tools but exploitable weaknesses.
– Videl and Jiren struggled in high-level play, with Videl’s lack of a projectile and Jiren’s incomplete moveset holding them back.
– Janemba was a niche pick, excelling in specific matchups but lacking consistency.

The lack of a balance patch during Season 2 meant that GT Goku dominated the meta, leading to a stale competitive scene for much of 2019.

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World-Building, Art & Sound: A Feast for the Senses

Visual Fidelity: The Anime Comes to Life

Arc System Works’ cel-shaded animation in Dragon Ball FighterZ is nothing short of breathtaking. FighterZ Pass 2 continued this tradition, with each new character meticulously animated to match their anime counterparts:
– GT Goku’s fluid movements captured the energy of Dragon Ball GT.
– Broly’s hulking frame and wild hair were rendered with terrifying detail.
– Jiren’s stoic expressions and muscular physique exuded power.

The Dramatic Finishes—cinematic sequences triggered by specific moves—were expanded with new interactions. For example:
– Gogeta vs. Broly recreated their iconic battle from Dragon Ball Super: Broly.
– GT Goku vs. Janemba referenced Dragon Ball GT’s supernatural themes.

Sound Design: The Power of Voice and Music

The voice acting in FighterZ Pass 2 was top-notch, with Japanese and English casts delivering iconic lines:
– Sean Schemmel’s Goku and Christopher Sabat’s Vegeta brought the English dub to life.
– Masako Nozawa’s Goku and Ryō Horikawa’s Vegeta retained the Japanese version’s authenticity.

The Commentator Voice Packs included in the pass added flavor to matches, with new announcer lines for each character. The soundtrack, composed by Toshiyuki Kishi and Hiromi Mizutani, blended orchestral scores with electronic beats, perfectly capturing the game’s high-energy battles.

Stage Design: Battlegrounds with History

While FighterZ Pass 2 didn’t introduce new stages, the existing arenas—like Planet Namek and World Tournament Arena—were enhanced by the new characters’ Dramatic Intros. For example:
– Broly’s intro on Planet Namek referenced his battle with Goku and Vegeta.
– Gogeta’s intro on the World Tournament Arena showcased his fusion dance.

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Reception & Legacy: A Mixed but Enduring Impact

Critical Reception: Praise and Criticism

FighterZ Pass 2 was met with positive reviews, though opinions varied on its balance:
– IGN praised the character variety but noted the lack of balance updates.
– GameSpot highlighted GT Goku’s dominance as a double-edged sword—exciting for players but stifling for the meta.
– Steam users gave the pass a Very Positive rating (84% from 116 reviews), with many praising its value for money.

However, competitive players were divided:
– Some appreciated the new tools and playstyles introduced.
– Others criticized the lack of patches, which led to a stagnant meta.

Commercial Success: A DLC That Sold

FighterZ Pass 2 contributed to Dragon Ball FighterZ’s ongoing commercial success. By May 2023, the base game had sold 10 million copies, with DLC sales playing a significant role. The pass’s $24.99 price tag (often discounted to $9.99) made it an attractive purchase, especially for players who wanted all six characters.

Influence on the Fighting Game Community

FighterZ Pass 2’s legacy is twofold:
1. Character Diversity: The pass proved that Dragon Ball games could successfully integrate non-Saiyan characters (like Videl) and modern anime characters (like DBS Broly).
2. Meta Evolution: While GT Goku’s dominance was controversial, it sparked discussions about balance in fighting games, influencing future updates.

The pass also set a precedent for seasonal content in fighting games, with later passes (FighterZ Pass 3) introducing rollback netcode and further refinements.

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Conclusion: A Vital Chapter in FighterZ’s Journey

Dragon Ball FighterZ: FighterZ Pass 2 was more than just a DLC pack—it was a testament to the game’s evolution. While it had its flaws—unbalanced characters, lack of patches, and a stagnant meta—it also introduced iconic fighters, expanded the roster’s diversity, and kept the competitive scene alive.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10 – A Must-Have for Fans, but Not Without Flaws

• Pros:

  • Diverse character roster with unique playstyles.
  • Stunning visuals and faithful animations.
  • Great value for money compared to individual purchases.
  • Expanded the game’s lore with timely additions like DBS Broly.

• Cons:

  • Balance issues, particularly with GT Goku’s dominance.
  • No significant gameplay updates or patches during Season 2.
  • Some characters (Videl, Jiren) felt underwhelming in high-level play.

FighterZ Pass 2 remains a cornerstone of Dragon Ball FighterZ’s post-launch support, proving that even in a crowded market, a well-crafted DLC can reinvigorate a game and its community. For fans of the franchise and competitive fighters alike, it’s an essential addition—flaws and all.

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Final Thought: If FighterZ Pass 2 had included a balance patch and more interactive story content, it could have been perfect. As it stands, it’s a flawed masterpiece—one that every Dragon Ball fan should experience.