Among the many new product announcements at San Diego Comic-Con was Panini America’s plans to release an updated version of the Dragon Ball Z Trading Card Game, originally launched by Score in 2000 (see "'Dragon Ball Z' TCG Returns").  ICv2 had a chance to communicate with Panini’s Brand Manager for the line, Aik Tongtharadol, who kindly supplied more information about the new edition.
 
Dragon Ball Z is currently expected to release in early September, and will include both Starter Decks and Booster Packs.  Starter Decks will include one of two pre-constructed 60 card decks and five starter-deck-exclusive Prizm Technology cards featuring one of six characters from the animated series: Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Friza, Piccolo, or Krillin. 
 
Each Booster Pack will include 12 cards, with one rare card in each pack.  Special ultra rare cards will also be in the set, packed in one out of three 24-pack display boxes.  Booster-pack-exclusive cards will include additional main personalities and the seven Dragonballs.
 
This edition of the game will feature 200 new cards and new characters, introducing new strategic options, as well as reprints of cards from the earlier edition.  It will remain completely compatible with the original game.
 
Much of the packaging and product details are still pending approval.
 
Panini America plans to distribute the Dragon Ball Z TCG through regular hobby channels as well as some mass retailers.  The company will have in-store support at launch, with tournament kits and promos for locally-run events. While there is currently no formal plans for company-run organized play, "We are looking at venues for upcoming OP events in 2015," Tongtharadol said.