Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure

Game Details:

Developed by Dimps and released for the Game Boy Advance, Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure is a side-scrolling action game adapted from the first half of the original Dragon Ball manga. Players primarily control Son Goku, but can also unlock other characters such as Krillin and Master Roshi. The game progresses through level-based combat, jumping, exploration, and collecting Dragon Balls.

The game features a clean, cartoonish pixel art style with fluid animations. It includes various combat methods such as punches, kicks, attacks with the Power Pole, aerial combat, and Ki blasts. Interspersed between levels are animated cutscenes that faithfully recreate the anime's content. Each chapter typically concludes with a boss battle against members of the Red Ribbon Army, Tien Shinhan, Mercenary Tao, and more. Players can even engage in "1v1 fighting modes" to experience martial arts tournament duels.

Additionally, the game includes multiple hidden items, side characters, and collectible character cards. Players can unlock a versus mode and several playable characters after completing the game, significantly enhancing its replayability.

Editor's Recommendation:

As a classic anime adaptation game, Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure is arguably one of the most sincere and complete Dragon Ball games. Firstly, it doesn't stick to just combat but blends platform jumping, exploration, fighting, and story into one cohesive experience. Players can not only experience Goku's growth story but also feel the game's depth through its rich combat moves and item collection.

The impact of hits is strong, and the combo consistency is high, providing an excellent action experience even on the GBA platform. Moreover, various classic scenes from the original work, such as Goku's battle against the Red Ribbon Army, his fierce fight with Tien Shinhan, and the flexible use of the Power Pole, are all well-realized. Most importantly, it is suitable for all ages, whether you are a long-time Dragon Ball fan or an action game enthusiast, you can have fun with it.

Game Guide:

I. Basic Operations and Advanced Combat

• Goku's initial moves include normal attacks + Power Pole. Holding down the attack button allows for charged attacks, and Ki blasts are used for long-range attacks.
• Aerial combos are key to efficiently clearing enemies: Jump → Attack → Jump again → finish with a Ki blast allows for rapid enemy elimination.
• Remember to use "Down + Attack" for a downward strike, as many enemies are positioned low or are ambushing; this move is necessary to break through them.

II. The Versatile Power Pole

• The Power Pole can not only be used for attacks but also as a puzzle-solving tool, such as:
• Activating mechanisms;
• Breaking obstacles high up or far away;
• Hooking onto grapple points in mid-air to achieve long-distance jumps.
• Some hidden areas can only be reached via Power Pole jump paths, so be sure to test the terrain.

III. Boss Battle Tips

• Each boss has a fixed attack pattern; observe their attack rhythm:
• Mercenary Tao: He has a recovery period after throwing his spear, providing a good opportunity to attack.
• Tien Shinhan: He uses multi-stage Ki blasts and clones. It's best to attack the main body from a distance.
• It is recommended to accumulate Ki and unleash "Ki Blasts" for both stun effects and piercing damage.

IV. Character Unlock Conditions (Fighting Mode)

After completing the main story, versus mode is unlocked. Characters are gradually made available through the following methods:

• Krillin: Complete the first World Martial Arts Tournament.
• Tien Shinhan: Complete his chapter and defeat him.
• Mercenary Tao: Collect the corresponding card in a hidden storyline.
• Other characters like Chiaotzu, Master Roshi, etc.: Unlock by collecting all "Character Cards."

It is recommended to explore every corner of each level, as some character cards are located on hidden high platforms or behind walls.

V. Additional Tips and Collection Advice

• Maximum HP and Ki can be increased through special items, often hidden in remote areas of the levels.
• Returning to earlier levels after powering up in later stages can help acquire missed cards and items. It is recommended to replay levels with an enhanced protagonist.
• During combat, make good use of aerial charged attacks and the retreat-and-attack mechanic; avoiding direct confrontation makes it easier to clear stages.