Play Dragon Ball Z - Super Butouden (Japan)
Game Introduction
Dragon Ball Z: Super Butoden is a fighting game released by Bandai on March 20, 1993, for the Super Nintendo (Super Famicom). As the first Dragon Ball game with character voice acting, it sold about 1.3 million copies in three months post-launch, a huge commercial hit. It uses a 1v1 combat system similar to Street Fighter II, letting players move freely on ground and air, and use moves like ki blasts. It has a rich roster of classic Dragon Ball Z anime characters. Thanks to its innovative mechanics and faithful adaptation of the original work, Dragon Ball Z: Super Butoden was one of the most popular fighting games of its time.
Gameplay
Game Overview
Dragon Ball Z: Super Butoden is a one-on-one fighter by Bandai for the Super Famicom on March 20, 1993. It was the first Dragon Ball game with character voice acting, selling about 1.3 million copies in three months. Built on a framework like Street Fighter II, it faithfully recreates the anime's iconic fighters and techniques, becoming one of the era's most popular fighting titles.
Core Gameplay
You move freely on ground and air, unleashing ki blasts, rushes, and throws. The signature ki projectiles track and curve toward opponents, creating a distinctive mind game, while air-ground layering gives fights a three-dimensional feel. A charge system powers ultimate moves, so learning each character's list is key; a fully charged finisher can turn the tide in one blow.
The Butoden Identity
As the SFC's pioneering Dragon Ball fighter, Super Butoden set the series' tracking ki blasts plus air-ground layering identity. Unlike later Budokai 3D arenas, it stays true to 2D duels emphasizing hit detection and rhythm. The Japanese original packs animated voice clips for a hit feel unmatched then, essential for retro fighting fans and shaping later Dragon Ball games. Whether you are a longtime fan or a first-time player, it delivers a distinct and memorable experience worth revisiting.
Game Tips
- Bandai's 1993 fighting game, the first Dragon Ball title with character voice acting.
- One-on-one combat framework reminiscent of Street Fighter II, faithful to the anime.
- Free movement on both ground and air gives fights a layered, three-dimensional feel.
- Ki blasts track and curve toward opponents, creating a unique offensive mind game.
- Roster includes many classic Dragon Ball Z characters with faithful signature moves.
- A charge system powers ultimate techniques, so learning move lists is essential.
- The Japanese version features animated voice clips for a distinctive hit feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Super Butoden is 2D with tracking ki blasts and air-ground layers; Budokai uses 3D arenas.
As a fighter, it uses passwords or memory cards for settings; matches are real-time, no
Arcade, survival, and practice modes plus a deep move list keep solo play long and fun.
Controls are intuitive; start with Goku, then learn charge and ki timing to improve
The JP build has unique voice clips and the original name; core play is identical, ideal
