Understanding Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero Ranked Mode – Mechanisms and Character Selection Strategies

Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero features a Ranked Play mode that sets it apart from all other online gameplay options.

This game faithfully embodies the spirit of the cherished Budokai Tenkaichi series while delivering modernized combat mechanics, innovative game modes, and much more.

Considering that the previous installment in the franchise debuted 17 years ago, it’s expected that Sparking Zero offers a more comprehensive online experience, with competitive modes taking center stage. Besides engaging in casual World Tournaments online, players can also compete in the Ranked mode.

If you’re eager to dive into Ranked Play in Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, here’s everything you need to know about how this mode operates and the crucial role that character selection plays in achieving victory.

Overview of Ranked Battle Modes

Dragon Ball Sparking Zero DP Battle — Image credit: dexerto/Bandai Namco

In Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, players can choose from two distinct modes within Ranked Play: Single Battle and DP Battle.

Single Battle: In this mode, you select one fighter from the extensive roster available, including those from Sparking Zero. You will then face off against another player using their selected character.

DP Battle: Here, you can assemble a team of up to five characters. Unlike other online modes where any character can be selected freely, DP Battle imposes certain restrictions through the Destruction Points system, promoting balanced gameplay.

Understanding Destruction Points in Ranked DP Mode

Dragon Ball DP Ranked — Image credit: dexerto/Bandai Namco

In the Ranked DP Battle, players can select a maximum of five characters for their lineup. However, the selection and number of characters depend on the Destruction Points (DP) allocation system that governs the mode.

When you choose a character, a numerical value in the corner of their portrait denotes their power level. For instance, Goku (Z- Mid) has a value of 5 Destruction Points, while his Ultra Instinct form is valued at 9.

You must stay within a limit of 15 DP in this Ranked mode.

This constraint means you have to be strategic in building your team rather than opting for only the strongest characters available.

Tips for Character Selection in Ranked DP Mode

Balancing Quantity and Quality

Dragon Ball Ranked Play — Image credit: dexerto/Bandai Namco

While it may be tempting to focus solely on powerful characters like Goku Black or Jiren, doing so can deplete your DP quickly, leaving you unable to choose any supplementary fighters.

Although relying on a single top-tier character seems like a winning approach, once they are knocked out, your battle may come to a swift end.

Instead of investing all your DP into one character, consider filling your lineup with at least three fighters. This variety will offer you more tactical options during matches, allowing you to switch characters if one isn’t performing as expected, reducing the risk of losing immediately if your strongest fighter falls.

Leverage Character Transformations

Dragon Ball Sparking Zero Ranked — Image credit: dexerto/Bandai Namco

The transformation feature is a critical aspect to consider when constructing your team in the Ranked DP mode of Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero.

Rather than choosing Goku in his SSGSS state and spending 8 DP points, you can opt for his base form at just 5 DP, powering him up to SSGSS during the match.

This strategy allows you to benefit from one of the game’s mightiest characters while still preserving DP for additional team members. This principle applies to other Super Saiyan characters like Vegeta, Broly, Gohan, and Trunks as well.

If you select them in their transformed states initially, it costs more DP, but picking them in their base forms enables you to maintain flexibility and access their Super Saiyan upgrades throughout the fight.

For those navigating through Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero’s Episode Battle mode, check out guides on unlocking and completing various what-if scenarios across each character’s storylines.

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