Bandai Namco has released a new seven-minute gameplay trailer for Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3, offering an in-depth look at the sequel’s combat mechanics, mission structure, and the all-new AGE 1000 setting. The latest footage gives fans their clearest look yet at the upcoming action RPG as it expands on the series’ signature gameplay ahead of its planned 2027 release.
Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 Introduces a Brand-New Setting
Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 marks the third main entry in Bandai Namco’s popular action series and the first game to be officially presented as an RPG. Rather than continuing the timeline from previous installments, the sequel introduces an original story set in the futuristic AGE 1000.
The new setting also features original characters designed by Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama before his passing in 2024. His final contributions give the game a fresh cast while maintaining the visual style that has defined the franchise for decades.
Players will create their own customizable hero and fight alongside legendary Dragon Ball characters who once protected Earth. This approach moves away from the time-travel storyline seen in earlier Xenoverse games and places players at the center of a completely new adventure.
Missions Focus on Team Battles and Player Progression
The newly released gameplay trailer follows a rookie member of the Great Saiya Squad through a full mission, introducing many of the game’s core systems. It also provides a closer look at how players will progress through objectives and battles as members of the new organization.
Missions support teams of up to four players, with encounters becoming more challenging as they progress from regular enemies to large-scale boss fights. The trailer also introduces West City, where Bulma and the original character Gamma 1 guide players through their early journey while showcasing locations around West City University.
Bandai Namco also highlighted the game’s character creation system. Players can choose different races with unique strengths, including Saiyans, who specialize in Strike and Ki Blast attacks, and Earthlings, who offer balanced stats and a faster-charging Potential Meter.
Combat Revolves Around Ki and Battle Styles
Combat in Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 is built around managing Ki throughout every battle. Players can reduce an opponent’s Ki by using combos, charged attacks, and special abilities before triggering a vulnerable Ki Break state.
Once an enemy enters Ki Break, players can unleash a powerful Break Smash attack that deals significantly more damage than standard Super Attacks. The trailer also demonstrates several Super Attacks with unique effects, while Ultimate Attacks serve as cinematic finishing moves after filling their dedicated gauge.
Each playable character also features a unique Battle Style that changes available combos and techniques. These styles allow players to adopt combat approaches inspired by iconic Dragon Ball fighters such as Goku and Vegeta while still customizing their own character.
Alongside its combat mechanics, Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 introduces two new systems designed to strengthen teamwork during battles. The first is Soul Assist, which allows players to summon a familiar Dragon Ball character to perform one of their signature attacks once the Assist Gauge is filled.
The second mechanic, Soul Switch, temporarily lets players channel the soul of a selected character. This transformation changes the player’s appearance and significantly boosts combat abilities, creating new strategic options during difficult encounters.
According to Bandai Namco, these connection-based mechanics are central to the game’s progression system. Building stronger relationships with returning characters will unlock new abilities and provide additional customization options throughout the adventure.
Release Window and Upcoming Demo Events
Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 is scheduled to launch in 2027 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. While Bandai Namco has not announced a specific release date, the new gameplay trailer offers the most detailed look at the project since its reveal.
Fans who want to try the game before launch will have several opportunities through Bandai Namco’s hands-on demo tour across the United States. Upcoming stops include Dream Con in Houston from July 10 to 12, followed by another public event in San Diego from July 23 to 26.
With a new setting, expanded RPG elements, deeper combat mechanics, and cooperative gameplay systems, Dragon Ball Xenoverse 3 is shaping up to be the franchise’s biggest evolution yet as it prepares for its 2027 release.
