- Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Battle 22 was originally released for the PlayStation in Japan in 1995 with a European edition following two years later. The 2D fighter finally reaches the United States as the popularity of the animated show on which it’s based continues to exhibit robust staying power into the early 2000s. Although the title suggests 22 playable characters, each with an arsenal of unique moves, kicks, spins, slashes, and specialties, an additional five bonus characters can be unlocked with one command, including Master Roshi, Kid Goku, Super Saiyan 3 Goku, Vegeto, and Mr. Hercule Satan.The roster of regulars features Goku, Gohan, Goten, Kid Trunks, Gotenks, Trunks, Piccolo, Krillin, Tien, Great Saiyaman, Supreme Kai, Vegeta, Zarbon, Recoome, Captain Ginyu, Frieza, Android 18, Android 16, Cell, Dabura, Majin Buu, and Super Buu. Individual battles are won or lost based on player prowess in controlling their characters’ skills, such as concentrating energy, close-up fighting, running, jumping, levitating, and defense.
Gameplay modes include one player versus the computer (all characters), two player (requires two controllers), and Championship (one-on-one, 16-player tournament bracket). Championship mode allows one player to control up to eight of the 16 fighters or join with seven other players. Build Up training and Build Up Battles allow players to experiment with character moves or fight one-on-one against another player, with either player having the option to turn control of his or her character over to the computer at any time.
