New Dragon Ball Gekishin Squadra Update Will Turn It Into a Completely New Game
Dragon Ball Gekishin Squadra, a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena based on the Dragon Ball franchise, is set to undergo a major overhaul that will transform it from a MOBA into a third-person fighting game. The developers say the change, announced around the game's first anniversary, is intended to close the skill gap that has left newcomers struggling and quitting, though it means altering many of the features that originally defined the title. The revamp has proved deeply unpopular with the existing community, some of whom have reportedly already uninstalled the game in protest.
According to a developer letter, the overhaul will scrap the game's signature top-down view in favour of a closer, modified camera perspective, while gameplay rules, maps and the character role system will also be reworked to reduce reliance on strategic, knowledge-based mechanics. Character acquisition will be simplified and customisation and visual effects improved, with the changes due to roll out gradually over the coming months and take full effect by the end of the year. The announcement drew a wave of critical replies on X from players opposed to the changes, and it remains unclear whether the developers will heed the backlash or proceed as planned.
- Gekishin Squadra is shifting from MOBA to third-person fighter.
- Developers cite a large skill gap deterring beginners as the reason.
- Changes complete by year-end; many fans are unhappy and quitting.
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Dragon Ball Gekishin Squadra is a free-to-play online game based on the Dragon Ball series. It was built as a multiplayer online battle arena, a format in which teams of players use characters with different abilities and work together to defeat opponents.
The game’s developers have said the format’s learning curve has made it hard for new players to compete. The proposed overhaul would change how the game looks and plays, including its camera, maps and character roles. These changes matter because they affect the game’s identity and have divided its existing player community.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A substantial redesign could address the steep learning curve that reportedly drives newcomers away, giving more players a fair chance to enjoy the game and helping it remain viable over time. A closer camera, simpler character acquisition and clearer gameplay may make matches more accessible, while refreshed customisation and effects could give the game room to grow.
The case against
The MOBA’s top-down view, strategic mechanics and role system are core parts of what existing players chose the game for, so replacing them risks breaking the promise that built its community. A change this sweeping may alienate loyal players without guaranteeing that newcomers will stay, and the backlash suggests the developers should take players’ attachment to the original design seriously.