We Gotta Power MK2

For the uninitiated, it’s a game that sounds like someone’s taken a random selection of words, letters and numbers and thrown them all together. For those in the know, however, Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors 2 is as clear as day.

The ‘2’ reveals that it’s a sequel to last year’s Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors (you don’t say!)

The ‘Z’ reminds us that we’re in not in the original Dragon Ball universe but the Z version of the Japanese animation, which, while continuing the story of the monkey-tailed martial art Earth protector Gokū and his son, involves different characters and backstory. And that’s not to mention the more dramatic and serious tone noted by series commentators.

And the ‘Supersonic Warriors’ tells us what motley collection of bad guys (and good guys) we’ll be taking on (or playing as) as we fight our way through 155 levels of fist-smacking action.

Mixing eye-catching 2D and 3D graphics, the game is all-action with plenty of punch and kick combos - including some new moves - and loads of effects in terms of fireball, sparky hits and other onscreen destruction.

In terms of its DS-ability, the top screen is where the battles happen, with control coming from the d-pads and side buttons. The touchscreen is used for the summon-and-swap feature where you can show your strategic side and choose the best characters for the bout beforehand and then tag them into play. There’s a maximum numbers of points for your team so you can either choose a few tough guys or more numerous, but weaker, fighters.

The main focus of the game is the single-player mode, with loads of branching storylines, new characters and secret missions. There’s a two-player wi-fi mode as well.

Still fighting its way over from Japan, Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors 2 is due for release in early 2006.