Bandai Namco Unveils New Dragon Ball Game Project 'AGE 1000' and 'Sparking! ZERO' DLC

In celebration of the Dragon Ball series' 40th anniversary, Bandai Namco has unveiled significant developments for its gaming franchise. Among these is the formal announcement of a new game project, tentatively titled "AGE 1000." This ambitious endeavor, which has been in the works for approximately six to seven years, including its initial conceptualization phase, promises to introduce players to an entirely novel world filled with never-before-seen characters, all crafted by the legendary series creator, Akira Toriyama. While its official name is yet to be disclosed, the project is slated for release in 2027. Concurrently, fans of "DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO" can anticipate substantial downloadable content (DLC) arriving in summer 2026, expanding the roster with iconic characters and enhancing gameplay with new stages and customization options. Furthermore, free updates, such as the 'Mission 100' and 'Survival Mode,' are set to enrich the gaming experience.

The newly announced game, "AGE 1000," is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Dragon Ball universe. Despite the passing of Akira Toriyama in 2024, his creative vision remains integral to this project. Developers confirmed that Toriyama-sensei was deeply involved in various aspects of "AGE 1000," including its intricate world-building and character design. The title's designation, 'AGE,' signifies a specific year within the expansive Dragon Ball timeline, hinting at a potentially rich narrative framework. The gaming community is already abuzz with speculation regarding the game's plot and its potential connections to existing Dragon Ball lore.

Alongside the upcoming new title, "DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO" is set to receive a major content injection. This DLC package, expected in summer 2026, will introduce a host of new playable characters, such as Super Saiyan Bardock and Super Android 17 (GT), enriching the fighting game's roster. Players can also look forward to expanded customization options for skills and outfits, as well as new battlegrounds to explore. Additionally, a new single-player mode is planned, promising fresh challenges and experiences. Ahead of this premium content, free updates are scheduled, including 'Mission 100' mode, which allows players to undertake various missions with their favorite characters, and 'Survival Mode,' both designed to keep the game engaging. The release schedule for these updates and DLC may vary across different platforms, with specific details for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 versions to be announced later.

The continuous development of new games and content for the Dragon Ball franchise underscores its status as a global phenomenon. Both "AGE 1000" and the "Sparking! ZERO" DLC are poised to captivate long-time enthusiasts and new players alike, ensuring that the saga of Dragon Ball continues to evolve and inspire. As more information emerges from events like Dragon Ball Games Battle Hour 2026, the anticipation for these releases will undoubtedly continue to build, reinforcing the series' lasting impact on popular culture and gaming.