Bandai Namco has released an in depth gameplay preview for Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3, focusing on the combat and customization systems that define the upcoming arena battler. The footage, which tracks a rookie warrior during a mission in West City, demonstrates the foundational theme of connection that influences both the narrative and the mechanical systems of the game. According to reporting by journalist Joseph Luster, the title is scheduled to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via Steam in 2027.
Combat in Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 revolves around the strategic management of Ki. Players can actively deplete an opponent's Ki reserves by utilizing a combination of standard physical combos, charged strikes, and specialized Ki Drain type attacks. Successfully draining an enemy's energy triggers a Ki Break status, leaving the target temporarily defenseless. While an opponent is in this vulnerable state, players can execute a Break Smash, which serves as a highly damaging finisher that far exceeds the power of standard attacks. The flow of battle is further determined by selected Battle Styles, which alter standard combo chains and basic movement patterns to mirror the fighting techniques of established characters like Goku and Vegeta.
Missions can be undertaken individually or in cooperative squads of up to 4 players. The game challenges these groups to coordinate their tactics as they transition from fighting waves of minor enemies to engaging in large scale battles against powerful bosses. Success in these scenarios relies on the correct timing of Super Attacks, which carry various secondary status effects, and the activation of cinematic Ultimate Attacks that require a fully charged energy gauge to execute.
The connection mechanic is expressed physically in battle through the Soul Assist and Soul Switch systems. When the dedicated Assist Gauge reaches capacity, players can trigger Soul Assist to temporarily summon the spirit of a legendary defender of Earth to perform a signature super attack. For a more drastic combat upgrade, players can utilize Soul Switch, which is also referred to as Soul Change
. This ability allows the custom warrior to temporarily channel the soul of an iconic fighter, transforming their physical appearance and dramatically boosting their defensive and offensive statistics for a limited duration.
Beyond channeling external heroes, players can develop their own power through the Awakening system. This mechanic unlocks race specific transformations that alter combat attributes, including the iconic Super Saiyan state for Saiyan characters. Bandai Namco has indicated that details regarding other playable races, alongside their unique transformation abilities and specific playstyles, will be disclosed in future updates leading up to the 2027 launch window.
