GameCube

Dragon Ball Z: Sagas

If you're not already a DBZ fan, there are better games out there, with storylines that won't make your head spin. On the other hand, if you're a diehard, you'll relish playing through your favorite early battles in the epic story. Sagas is a competent first entry to the action genre, just not exemplary.

In addition to the gaming issues, Sagas is an unattractive game. The character models are blocky, and the environments are dull. Perhaps Atari should have retained the cel-shading look that Budokai had adopted and nearly perfected for its last two titles.

As a fan, I do have to give a nod where it's due though. The concept of a DBZ adventure game is a novel one. I was amped about this game when it was announced. I mean being able to fly in a DBZ-based adventure game? Oh my heart be still! But man oh man, Sagas as a series has a long way to go before it comes close to stardom.

The following is a public service announcement for all Dragon Ball Z fans: For your own good, do not play Sagas. If you do, not only will you be treated to some of the most antiquated and broken gameplay available on modern consoles, but you will also send the message that you actually enjoy seeing the popular anime series’ repeated desecration. Sure, it has Goku and company battling through the early DBZ story arcs, but that’s all you’ll get. Don’t expect responsive controls, a passable camera, or compelling visuals. However, if all you want is the Dragon Ball Z cast surrounded by spiritless action and absurd level design, you’ve got it. You might also be interested in our special “cookie and a throat-jab” combo meal.

Dragon Ball Z: Sagas fails in all departments. It's nowhere near as fun or functional as the Budokai games, and completely fails in taking the series into a new direction. Admittedly, the concept sounds fun. Assuming the role of your favorite DBZ character and running amok in free-form environments sounds like a damn good time. Unfortunately, improper execution detonates any fun Sagas potentially contained. The camera blows and the enemies lack intelligence. Control, the most important factor in many games (and certainly fighting games) suffers from a lack of precision and finesse. Most of the environments feel bland, and level layout is equally uninspired. To sum up, there's just not much to recommend here. Especially considering Sagas is a full priced game. Buyers beware! You want to stay away from this one. Miles and miles away.

If Dragon Ball Z: Sagas weren't so patently ill-conceived, it would probably stand as another piece of evidence that you just can't do beat-'em-ups in this day and age. But it doesn't seem that quality or relevance were high priorities during the game's production, and the fact that it's being sold at full price only makes Sagas that much easier to pass up. Hardcore fans might be able to rationalize the purchase, but they'll still be out $50.