Deflecting attacks in Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero is a crucial skill that can help you turn the tide of a battle. Whether you’re facing off against iconic characters like Goku or Frieza, mastering the technique of deflecting beams and Ki Blasts is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to execute deflections effectively, manage your resources, and improve your timing.
Understanding the Controls
The game offers two different control schemes: Standard and Classic. The way you deflect depends on which control layout you’re using.
- Standard Controls: For players using the Standard setup, deflecting requires holding the Circle button on PlayStation or the B button on Xbox. This activates a defensive mode called “Super Perception,” allowing your character to deflect incoming attacks.
- Classic Controls: If you’re using Classic controls, the input becomes more complex. On PlayStation, you need to hold down both Triangle and Circle simultaneously, while on Xbox, you should press Y and B together. The timing is key here; pressing the buttons just before the enemy releases a beam will yield the best results.
The Cost of Deflecting
Deflecting beams in Sparking Zero isn’t a free action. Each time you attempt to deflect an attack, you’ll spend two bars of your character’s Ki gauge. Super Perception mode will also gradually drain your Ki energy while active, so it’s important to monitor your resources closely. Make sure you have enough Ki and Skill Counts available before attempting to deflect powerful attacks, such as Vegeta’s Galick Gun or Goku’s Kamehameha.
If you don’t have enough energy, it’s better to rely on blocking rather than risking a failed deflection. Overextending can leave you vulnerable and quickly drain your Ki, putting you at a disadvantage in the fight.
Timing is Everything
To successfully deflect, timing is essential. Activate the Super Perception stance right before the opponent’s attack connects. Although the timing window is generous, deflecting too early will drain more of your Ki than necessary, and deflecting too late will cause you to take damage. The best approach is to practice the technique in training mode, where you can set your character’s Ki and Skill Counts to maximum and simulate different attack patterns. This will help you get accustomed to the timing without the pressure of a real fight.
Advanced Techniques and Tips
- Sonic Sway for Added Defense: Sonic Sway is an advanced defensive maneuver that can be used in conjunction with deflecting. By pressing the deflect input just as the opponent uses a Rush Attack or certain Ki Blasts, you can trigger a Sonic Sway, allowing you to avoid the attack altogether and set up a counter. This technique can reduce your opponent’s Ki while giving you an opening for your own attack.
- Resource Management: Efficient use of Ki and Skill Counts is vital. Always keep an eye on your energy levels and avoid unnecessary deflections that waste valuable resources. Use the deflecting technique strategically, mixing it up with blocking, dodging, and other defensive moves to keep your opponent guessing.
- Mixing Defense with Offense: After a successful deflection, you can follow up with offensive moves to maintain the pressure on your opponent. Since the deflected beam will be sent back towards the attacker, take advantage of the brief window where your opponent may be recovering to launch a combo or execute a special move.
Practicing Deflections
The best way to become proficient at deflecting in Sparking Zero is by practicing in a controlled environment. Enter training mode and set the opponent’s strategy to “Blast Mode” to consistently face Ki Blasts. This will allow you to practice the deflecting inputs repeatedly and fine-tune your timing. You can also adjust your Ki and Skill Counts to ensure you don’t run out during practice sessions.
Over time, as you grow more comfortable with the technique, you’ll find yourself able to perform deflections with more confidence, even in high-pressure situations against skilled opponents.
When to Use Alternatives
While deflecting is a powerful tool, it’s not always the best option. In some cases, a simple block or dodge may be safer, especially if you’re running low on Ki or facing rapid-fire attacks that could overwhelm your defenses. Be adaptable and choose the defensive technique that best fits the situation.
