Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3, a beloved entry in the Dragon Ball video game series, offers players the chance to engage in epic battles with their favorite characters. One of the most exciting parts of the game is performing a finisher—an intense, game-changing move that can dramatically impact the outcome of a match. But how exactly do you perform a finisher in Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3? Let’s break it down.

What is a Finisher?

In Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3, a finisher is a special move or attack that can deal massive damage to your opponent, often leading to a victory. It’s usually performed when your opponent’s health is low and you’re ready to land the final blow. Finishers in this game are designed to feel cinematic and powerful, often replicating iconic moves from the Dragon Ball Z anime.

Steps to Perform a Finisher

To pull off a finisher in Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3, you need to follow these steps carefully:

1. Fill the Ki Gauge

Before you can unleash a finisher, you need to make sure your Ki gauge is filled. This is done by performing regular attacks, charging your Ki, and dealing damage to your opponent. Once the Ki gauge is full, you’ll be ready to attempt a finisher.

2. Lower Your Opponent’s Health

A finisher can’t be executed if your opponent is at full health. You need to weaken them significantly first. Some finishers can be used when your opponent’s health is almost gone, so make sure you’ve worn them down before attempting the final move.

3. Enter the Correct Input for the Finisher

Each character in Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3 has unique finishers, so the input for each one can vary. Typically, finishers are performed by executing a combination of buttons, such as pressing a direction on the control pad along with a specific attack button or Ki button. Make sure to check the character’s moves list in the game’s manual or the in-game menu for the correct inputs. In general, finishers are done with the “R2” or “L2” buttons along with specific button combos.

4. Activate the Finisher During the Fight

Once the conditions are right and you’ve charged up your Ki, get close to your opponent and initiate the finisher combo. If executed correctly, your character will perform their signature finishing move, dealing massive damage and potentially winning you the match!

Some Example Finishers

Here are a few examples of finishers from characters in Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3:

• Goku: Super Spirit Bomb – Goku’s iconic move from the series can be performed once you have enough Ki and your opponent’s health is low.
• Vegeta: Final Flash – A devastating attack that charges up for a few seconds before releasing a powerful energy blast.
• Frieza: Death Ball – A classic move from Frieza, the Death Ball is a powerful energy sphere that can be used as a finisher.
• Gohan: Father-Son Kamehameha – A combination attack that involves both Goku and Gohan, this is one of the most cinematic and powerful finishers in the game.

Tips for Successfully Performing a Finisher

• Timing is Key: Make sure you time your finisher properly, as you can miss the attack if your opponent is too far away or too fast.
• Practice the Combos: Some finishers require precise input timing, so practice your character’s moves to ensure you can perform the finisher smoothly.
• Use the Dragon Rush: If you can trigger a Dragon Rush (a quick, close-quarters exchange of attacks), you’ll have a better chance of landing the finishing move once the rush ends.

Mastering the Finisher

Performing a finisher in Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3 adds an extra layer of excitement to the battles and gives you the opportunity to recreate some of the most iconic moments from the anime. By filling your Ki gauge, lowering your opponent’s health, and executing the correct move combo, you’ll be able to deliver a satisfying finishing blow and claim victory in style. With practice, you’ll master the art of finishers and elevate your gameplay to new heights.