As its name implies, Dragon Ball: Origins returns the series to its role-playing roots and offers gamers a more light-hearted affair than many of franchise's latter-day titles. Players guide young versions of Goku and Bulma as they travel through a vast landscape looking for the seven Dragon Balls. Players can use Goku's special power pole to solve puzzles, cross rivers, break rocks, and protect Bulma from attacks, while Bulma helps the duo by inventing clever machines and weapons. The game makes full use of the DS' capabilities, letting players use the touch screen and stylus to direct Goku and guide him in combat. Gamers can upgrade both characters by finding "heart pieces" that increase health and defeating enemies to acquire "skill orbs." Players also have the opportunity to join in the Martial Arts World Tournament, where they will come across familiar characters from other Dragon Ball games, including Master Roshi, Yamcha, Ox King, and Chi Chi.