Dragon Ball XenoVerse 3 Preview: A Bigger Budget Sequel Takes Shape

Dragon Ball XenoVerse 2 has enjoyed such an extensive lifespan that discussing a proper follow-up almost feels surreal. However, the wait is finally moving toward an end. Bandai Namco recently provided a first look at Dragon Ball XenoVerse 3, and while the footage was pulled from an early build, it points toward the kind of high-budget evolution the series has needed for years.

Up until this point, public information regarding the sequel had been limited to a cinematic reveal trailer. Seeing the game in action changes that. While the core structure remains familiar—players operate out of a hub to select and launch into missions—the presentation feels significantly more modern.

Visuals and Fluidity

The most immediate takeaway from the demo is the leap in production value. Given that the previous entry is now a decade old, the improved graphics are a welcome change. The visual style aligns closely with Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, featuring detailed environments and intense particle effects that bring the combat to life. Perhaps even more important than the resolution is the animation quality; the stiff movement that defined the series since 2015 appears to have been replaced by a much more fluid, responsive system.

Combat and New Mechanics

The demo showcased a mission set in an ice-filled canyon, tasking a custom human female character and her squad—including fellow heroes and support NPCs—with clearing out Frieza soldiers. The combat remains a recognizable mix of melee combos and special moves, though the improved animation makes every Kamehameha and strike feel more impactful.

The highlight of the presentation was a boss encounter against a berserk Broly. This fight showcased two specific ways the game allows players to manage overwhelming odds:

• Soul Switch: This mechanic lets players swap their custom character with an established hero, such as Trunks, for roughly 30 seconds. This allows for the use of powerful finishers like the Heat Dome to deal massive damage.
• Awakenings: For players who prefer to stay in the fight as their own character, the game supports transformation mechanics, such as a Saiyan hero turning Super Saiyan mid-battle.

While the prospect of swapping to an existing character might feel like a step away from the "custom hero" identity the series is known for, the choice is ultimately left to the player. By offering both the Soul Switch and the ability to trigger unique transformations, the game provides tactical variety during its more hectic boss encounters.

With confirmation that Human, Saiyan, Namekian, Frieza, and Majin races are all returning, the foundation for the sequel is firmly in place. While it is still early days for the project, the move toward a higher-budget aesthetic and smoother combat flow suggests that Dragon Ball XenoVerse 3 is aiming to be the definitive expansion of the formula.