In a significant development for fans of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot, Bandai Namco has announced that the long-awaited Next-Gen Update for the PC version will be released on July 17, 2023. This update follows the earlier enhancements made available for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S platforms in January 2023, marking a moment of parity for the game across major consoles and PC.
Visual Enhancements and Expectations
The forthcoming update will be a complimentary upgrade for all existing owners of the game, ensuring that players can enjoy the visual improvements without any additional cost. Bandai Namco has provided a glimpse into the enhancements through a comparison video, showcasing upgrades in lighting, vegetation, water effects, and fluid dynamics. Players can also expect to see higher-quality textures in the new “HD” version.
However, it is important to approach these improvements with tempered expectations. While the visual upgrades will enhance the game’s aesthetic, they do not constitute a full remaster. The enhancements are designed to elevate the experience rather than transform it into a title that rivals modern 2025 games.
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot originally launched on PC in 2020 and was well-received for its performance. The game was optimized to run smoothly on a range of hardware, avoiding the pitfalls of high system requirements. Players appreciated the inclusion of proper keyboard and mouse on-screen indicators, along with the absence of mouse acceleration or smoothing issues. Overall, the initial release was characterized by its solid performance, with minimal stuttering reported by users.
As the PC version finally aligns with its console counterparts, it is clear that this update will be welcomed by many in the PC gaming community. The sentiment of “better late than never” resonates strongly as fans look forward to experiencing the enhanced visuals of this beloved title.