Key Takeaways:
- 9 Days blends open-world RPG mechanics with Dragon Ball Z-inspired combat and progression.
- The game is ambitious but hampered by bugs and indie-level polish.
- Despite flaws, its gameplay loop and unique premise make it a standout indie title for anime fans.
A High-Stakes Countdown That Channels DBZ’s Spirit
9 Days is a budget indie game that’s rapidly earning a cult following for delivering a Dragon Ball Z-style experience like no other. Priced at just $14.99 on Steam, this unique title gives players exactly nine in-game days to prepare for an epic showdown with the cosmic villain Afan. With exploration, training, and combat all tied to a ticking clock, it’s an engaging premise that scratches an itch many anime fans didn’t even know they had.
The game takes inspiration from DBZ’s most iconic arcs—think Goku’s time with King Kai or the intense buildup to the Frieza fight—but packages it all into an open-world, time-limited RPG experience. Whether players are absorbing energy from rocks or planets, learning to fly, or blasting enemies with devastating Ki attacks, 9 Days makes the journey to power both thrilling and personal.
Also read: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 Launches July 11: Preorder Bonuses and Digital Deluxe Rewards Revealed
Train, Transform, and Take on the Universe
Gameplay in 9 Days revolves around player choice and strategic use of time. Do you focus on melee upgrades or rush to unlock ranged blasts? Should you explore one more biome or perfect your Ki technique? The beauty lies in the freedom to develop your own combat style while discovering new traversal abilities, space travel mechanics, and even world destruction powers.
The game features custom combat mechanics, transformation sequences, and highly-replayable systems. With each playthrough offering new routes to strength and power, 9 Days encourages experimentation and multiple runs, much like a roguelite.
A Diamond in the Rough—But Still Rough
While the core concept is compelling, 9 Days is not without its issues. Developed by a solo creator known as MVR, the game has received mixed reviews on Steam due to bugs, unclear systems, and general polish concerns. However, recent user feedback has been far more positive, with many players praising its creativity and ongoing updates.
For fans willing to overlook its technical shortcomings, 9 Days offers a surprisingly rich and rewarding experience. It’s a passion project, and it shows—both in its ambition and its limitations
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Dragon Ball Z Fans with Patience
9 Days may not be perfect, but it captures something special. Its action-packed, power-scaling gameplay taps directly into the fantasy of becoming a warrior in a cosmic battle for survival. With active developer support and strong community potential, 9 Days is well worth a shot—especially for fans of anime-style action and high-stakes training arcs.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of GameDegen.com. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. GameDegen.com is not responsible for any financial losses.
