Deflecting beams in Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero is an essential skill for players who want to master defensive strategies in high-stakes battles. Learning to deflect attacks not only protects your character from damage but also adds a dynamic edge to gameplay, allowing you to maintain momentum even against powerful opponents.
Understanding the Mechanics of Beam Deflection
The basic concept behind deflecting a beam in Sparking Zero is simple: you need to activate Super Perception Mode, a state that allows your character to respond with heightened reflexes. For those using the Classic Layout, Super Perception is activated by pressing Triangle + Circle on PlayStation or Y + B on Xbox, while Standard Layout players can access it with just the Circle or B button.
In Super Perception Mode, players can deflect standard beam attacks with relative ease by timing their button press to coincide with the incoming attack. This defensive maneuver costs two Skill Points and uses a small portion of your character’s Ki meter. For newer players, this technique may feel challenging, but with practice, it can be mastered to turn the tide of any battle.
Timing and Resource Management
Timing plays a crucial role in deflecting beams. One option is to press the deflection button precisely as the beam attack reaches you. This direct deflection is effective and saves Ki, as it doesn’t require you to hold Super Perception for long periods. For players who are still refining their timing, holding down the deflect button can provide a buffer, allowing you to deflect the beam as it hits. However, holding the button longer will drain your Ki meter more rapidly, which may leave you vulnerable if your energy runs out mid-battle.
Because beam deflection costs Skill Points and Ki, managing these resources is essential. When faced with opponents who frequently use beams, conserve your Skill Points for key moments, and avoid overusing Super Perception for beams that can be dodged instead. A strategic mix of deflecting and evading beams will keep you in control and prevent unnecessary resource depletion.
Knowing When to Deflect and When to Dodge
Although deflecting a beam can offer a defensive edge, it is important to understand that not all beams are worth deflecting. For example, Ultimate Attacks, like Goku’s Spirit Bomb, are too powerful to be deflected. Attempting to deflect these ultimate techniques will only result in wasted resources and a potential knockout if the attack lands.
In some situations, High-Speed Evasion—a technique that allows you to sidestep incoming attacks—is a better choice than deflecting. This move is activated by pressing R1/RB on Standard Layout or Circle/B on Classic Layout. By dodging at the right moment, you avoid the beam without using Skill Points, preserving your resources for future deflections or other offensive moves.
Practicing Beam Deflection
To get comfortable with beam deflection timing, take advantage of the Training Mode in Sparking Zero. Here, you can configure your opponent’s attacks to focus on beam-type blasts, allowing you to practice timing your deflection without the pressure of a real match. Repeated practice helps you learn the rhythm and visual cues associated with each character’s beam moves, giving you a significant advantage when facing similar attacks in live gameplay.
Balancing Risk and Reward in Deflection Strategy
Beam deflection adds a unique “risk-reward” dynamic to Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, as deflecting beams at the right moment can lead to a short Ki-charging buff. This buff allows for quick Ki recovery, giving you an offensive advantage if you follow up with your own special attack. However, missing the timing or spending too many resources on unnecessary deflections can leave you exposed or low on Ki.
In addition, deflecting a beam can unsettle opponents who rely heavily on beam attacks, as they may be hesitant to waste their energy if you consistently counter their attacks. By mastering deflection, you effectively force opponents to rethink their strategy, giving you a psychological advantage in the battle.
