The Nintendo SNES has a dedicated fan base, and one of the most iconic games to ever grace this console is Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission (also known as Super Butouden 3). Developed by the renowned Japanese studio, Aeon Genesis, this game is an adaptation of the popular manga and anime series. In this article, we will delve into the world of Dragon Ball Z on the SNES, exploring its features, gameplay, and age rating.

Background

Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission was initially released in Japan as Super Butouden 3 in 1995. The game's story mode follows the adventures of Goku and his friends as they fight against powerful enemies to protect the Earth. The game also includes a variety of mini-games and side quests that add to its replay value.

Aeon Genesis, the developer behind Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission, is known for their work on several other SNES titles, including the popular Battle Garegga series. Their experience in creating fast-paced action games shines through in Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission, which features intense fighting sequences and challenging level design.

Gameplay

Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission is an action-adventure game that combines elements of fighting games with platforming mechanics. Players control Goku or one of his friends as they navigate through various environments, battling enemies and collecting power-ups to strengthen their characters.

The gameplay is divided into two main modes: story mode and free play mode. Story mode follows the plot of the Dragon Ball Z anime series, with players controlling Goku and his allies as they fight against powerful foes. Free play mode allows players to experiment with different fighting techniques and character moves without the constraints of a storyline.

One of the standout features of Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission is its use of "Power-Ups" which grant characters increased strength, speed or healing abilities. These power-ups can be collected by defeating enemies or finding them scattered throughout levels. However, power-ups also have a negative side effect; they will reduce health points unless timed correctly.

The graphics and sound design in Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission are reminiscent of the anime series it is based on. The character designs are faithful to the original manga and anime, with detailed sprites that bring the characters to life. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring catchy and energetic themes that perfectly capture the spirit of the series.

Age Rating

The age rating for Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission varies depending on the region and platform. In Japan, it was rated "All Ages" (, Zenryoku), which means it is suitable for all ages. However, in some Western countries, including North America, the game was rated "T for Teen" or "Teen".

The T rating is due to the game's violence, intense fighting sequences, and some mild language. While these elements are present throughout the game, they do not make the game excessively gory or disturbing.

In Europe, Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission was rated "12+" by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating body, which is equivalent to a US "T" rating. This means that players under 12 years old may not be suitable for this game due to its mild violence and intense action sequences.

Conclusion

Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission is an iconic SNES game that offers an unforgettable experience for fans of the anime series and action-adventure games alike. With its engaging gameplay, memorable characters, and challenging level design, it's no wonder why this game remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

The age rating for Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission may vary depending on the region and platform, but overall, it is suitable for players aged 10 and above due to its mild violence and intense action sequences. If you're a fan of the anime series or just looking for an exciting SNES game, then Dragon Ball Z - Ultra Mission is definitely worth checking out.

Table of Contents

1. Background
2. Gameplay
3. Graphics and Sound Design
4. Power-Ups
5. Age Rating
6. Conclusion

References:

• Dragon Ball Z: The Ultimate History (1997) by Scott McCloud and Tony Salmons
• Video Games for the Nintendo Entertainment System (1989) by Brian R. Sutton-Smith
• Super Butouden 3 (Japan only, 1995)
• Aeon Genesis: A Look at the Studio Behind Battle Garegga (2012)