Dragon Ball Gekishin Squadra Lands on Nintendo Switch
Big news for Dragon Ball fans! Bandai Namco is bringing its free-to-play MOBA, ‘Dragon Ball: Gekishin Squadra’, to the Nintendo Switch. This marks a fresh chapter for the Dragon Ball gaming universe, expanding beyond its usual fighting game roots into a team-based battle arena. I’m excited to dive into what this game offers and why it’s a big deal for Switch players.
This title, previously known as ‘Dragon Ball Project: Multi’, throws players into 4v4 battles where strategy and teamwork reign supreme. You pick from iconic characters like Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo, or even villains like Majin Buu and Cooler. Each fighter fits into roles like damage-dealing DPS, sturdy tanks, or support-focused technical characters. It’s fast-paced, with teams working to outsmart and overpower opponents in dynamic arenas. Think of it like controlling your favorite Z-Fighters in a game that feels more like ‘League of Legends’ than ‘Dragon Ball FighterZ’.
What sets ‘Gekishin Squadra’ apart is its accessibility. Being free-to-play, anyone with a Switch, PC, PS4, PS5, or mobile device can jump in without spending a dime. Bandai Namco has also confirmed cross-play and cross-progression, so you can team up with friends on different platforms and carry your progress wherever you play. This makes it easy to switch between devices without losing your hard-earned unlocks or customizations. Speaking of which, you can tweak your characters with unique skins, entrance animations, and finishers to show off your style.
The game’s roots trace back to an open beta test in August 2024, where players got a taste of its top-down, action-packed gameplay. Developed by Ganbarion, known for ‘One Piece World Seeker’, it’s the first time the Dragon Ball franchise has ventured into MOBA territory. I love how Bandai Namco is experimenting with new genres while keeping the anime’s high-energy spirit intact. The beta ran from August 20 to September 3, giving players a chance to test heroes and villains across various roles.
For Switch owners, this release is a big win. The console has seen Dragon Ball games before, like ‘Dragon Ball FighterZ’ and ‘Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2’, but ‘Gekishin Squadra’ brings something fresh. Its arrival alongside versions for PS5, PS4, PC, and mobile shows Bandai Namco’s commitment to reaching as many players as possible. The game is set to launch in 2025, though an exact date hasn’t been shared yet.
To build excitement, Bandai Namco announced a network test for June 12 to 16, 2025, letting Switch, PlayStation, and PC players try it early. This test will help fine-tune the online experience, ensuring smooth matches when the game goes live. If you’re eager to join, keep an eye on the official ‘Dragon Ball: Gekishin Squadra’ website for sign-up details.
Dragon Ball has a rich gaming history, with over 77 million units sold across titles like ‘Dragon Ball Z: Budokai’, ‘Xenoverse’, and ‘FighterZ’. The franchise, based on Akira Toriyama’s manga, has always thrived on fast-paced action and memorable characters. ‘Gekishin Squadra’ builds on that legacy while offering a new way to experience the Z-Fighters’ world.
I’m thrilled to see Dragon Ball evolve into a team-based format. The Switch’s portability makes it perfect for quick MOBA matches on the go, whether you’re blasting ki attacks as Goku or scheming as Frieza. With cross-play, free access, and a fresh take on the series, ‘Dragon Ball: Gekishin Squadra’ could be a game-changer for fans and newcomers alike. Keep your controllers ready!