The game features 58 playable characters with a total of 90 playable forms.

The game features 58 playable characters with a total of 90 playable forms.

The games are quite different from the often-compared Budokai series; they use a "behind-the-back" third-person camera perspective. Also different from the Budokai series, each form is treated as its own character, with varying stats, movesets and fighting styles

The Ki gauge can also be used to use moves referred to as Blast 2 skills. Every character has a unique set of Blast 2 skills that allow the character to use special moves such as Ki blasts and physical attacks. Characters also have a self-recharging numeric gauge called Blast Stock that allows players to use techniques called Blast 1 skills. Blast 1 skills usually have a supportive effect such as allowing characters to regain health or immobilize the enemy. Players can also power up into a mode called Max Power Mode normally by building up their Ki beyond full at the cost of Blast Stock bars.

[Game Mode]

The story mode of the series progresses similarly to the story modes in previous games. Players can select battles from different sagas and proceed through the story.

Similar to the same mode in the Budokai series, the player can enter a World Tournament and try to win their way to the top. There are three levels of the basic tournament and a Cell mode. Since characters can fly, characters can leave the perimeter of the arena, but will be called for ringout if they touch the ground.

- Z Battle Gate: progresses similar to the story modes in previous games.

- Ultimate Battle: This new mode pits whichever fighter the player chooses against 100 characters.

- World Tournament: the player can enter a world tournament and try to win their way to the top.