Saiyan Saga
A 2009 Nintendo DS RPG that chronicles the journey from the 23rd Tenkaichi Budokai through the Saiyan invasion, featuring six playable heroes and a battle system reliant on Ki blasts and Active Guards.
Based strictly on the provided source material regarding *Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans*, this entry covers the game's narrative scope rather than a direct retelling of the anime or manga arcs. The source specifies that the game is a 2009 role-playing title developed by Monolith Soft for the Nintendo DS, covering events from the "23rd Tenkaichi Budokai" story arc through the end of the eponymous "Saiyan" arc. It highlights the inclusion of six playable main characters: Goku, Gohan, Piccolo, Krillin, Tien, and Yamcha. While the game was announced with a different title in *Weekly Shonen Jump*, it was later renamed to tie-in with *Dragon Ball Kai*. Released in Japan on April 29, 2009, and globally in November 2009, the title received generally mixed reviews but was praised for its battle system and faithfulness to the original series.
- Protagonist Team
- Goku, Gohan, Piccolo, Krillin, Tien, Yamcha
Lore & Background
The game features a unique "Rage Gage" meter that fills during combat; when full, characters can perform ultimate attacks or team-based "Sparking Combos." It also utilizes an "Active Guard" system to minimize damage if timed correctly. The story involves solving puzzles and unlocking secrets using specific Ki blasts to overcome obstacles like rocks and brush in fields, forests, caves, and towns. The game includes numerous alternate storylines to provide a better understanding of the Dragon Ball universe.
In Their Own Story
The gameplay begins with access to a world map allowing travel between various areas including towns and dungeons. Players navigate these locations on the top screen while managing equipment via the touch screen using Capsule Corporation Dyno-Caps found in treasure chests or bought. Combat features an active party of up to three members, with skills unlocked using Ability Points (AP) earned from battles. The narrative covers the period leading up to and including the Saiyan invasion. While the source confirms the game covers the "Saiyan" arc, it does not explicitly describe the specific death of Tien or Yamcha in its text; however, it lists them as playable characters alongside Goku, Gohan, Piccolo, Krillin, and Yamcha. The conflict involves overcoming obstacles with Ki blasts and engaging monsters or bosses where stats are managed via the touch screen. The source notes that certain skills become available only when others are upgraded, and the game forces players to rely on the control pad rather than the stylus.
Reader's Guide
To navigate the world, use the top screen for area maps (fields, forests, caves) and the bottom touch screen for equipment management via Dyno-Caps. Remove obstacles like rocks using Ki blasts; stronger barriers require higher blast levels. In battle, maintain a party of up to three characters. Earn Ability Points (AP) after victories to upgrade skills in the skill menu. Monitor the "Rage Gage" on each character; when full, execute an ultimate attack or a "Sparking Combo" if two or more gauges are full for a tag team strike. Use the "Active Guard" button just before enemy attacks land to take minimal damage. Note that the game makes little use of the stylus, so rely on the control pad for commands. The story includes alternate storylines and puzzle-solving elements requiring specific Ki attacks.
Did You Know?
- The game was first announced in the December 22, 2008 issue of Weekly Shonen Jump under the title Dragon Ball Z Story: Saiyan Invasion.
- It became the third-best selling video game in Japan during May 2009, behind Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days and Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth.
- Namco Bandai acquired the North American license from previous holder Atari in July 2009, making this one of their first Dragon Ball games published in that region.
- The game was developed by Monolith Soft, which had been sold to Nintendo in 2007, marking a collaboration with Namco Bandai Games.
- Famitsu gave the game a score of 29 out of 40, consisting of one six, one seven, and two eights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Saiyan Saga?
This pivotal arc marks Dragon Ball Z's shift from earthly martial arts to interstellar warfare when Goku learns he is a member of the Saiyan warrior race. It introduces brutal conquerors like Raditz, Nappa, and Vegeta who view humanity as mere prey, shattering the illusion of Earth's safety.
Who are the main villains in this saga?
The primary antagonists are Goku's half-brother Raditz, followed by his elite comrades Nappa and Prince Vegeta. These Saiyans arrive on Earth to harvest its resources and eliminate any threats, including Goku himself.
How does the story conclude?
After a devastating battle where many Z Fighters perish, Goku returns from King Kai's planet just in time to defeat Vegeta with the help of his son Gohan. This victory temporarily saves Earth but sets the stage for future galactic conflicts.
Why is this saga important to the series?
It fundamentally redefines the show by revealing Goku's forgotten bloodline and introducing the legendary Super Saiyan transformation as a key plot point. The arc expands the narrative scope from local tournaments to an existential war against a planet-devouring alien race.
What new power scaling concepts are introduced here?
The saga establishes the immense strength gap between Earthlings and Saiyans, forcing characters like Piccolo to fuse with Kami for survival. It also introduces the concept of scouter technology and the legendary Super Saiyan legend as a benchmark for future power levels.
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