Beyblade Generations and Types Thorough Comparison | 26 Years of History and Features of 4 Generations

Beyblade is a popular battle hobby that has continued to evolve for over 26 years since its birth in 1999. Throughout its long history, it has been divided into four major generations, each with significantly different structures and battle systems. In this article, we will thoroughly compare the features and differences of the four generations: Bakuten Shoot, Metal Fight, Burst, and the latest Beyblade X, and provide detailed explanations on which generation to start with.

Overview of the Four Generations of Beyblade

The history of Beyblade can be divided into four distinct generations. Each generation has its own technological innovations and concepts, captivating many fans with their unique charms. The parts structure, materials, and battle rules have been refreshed for each generation, and there is basically no compatibility between generations.

The first generation, Bakuten Shoot Beyblade, laid the foundation for the boom, while the second generation, Metal Fight, achieved a sense of weight and impact through the introduction of metal parts. The third generation, Burst, added new victory conditions through a disassembly gimmick, and the latest fourth generation, Beyblade X, features explosive battles linked with dedicated stadiums.

Timeline of Beyblade Generations

Summarizing the development periods and main features of each generation in chronological order, we have:

• 1st Generation: Bakuten Shoot Beyblade (1999-2005): Primarily plastic material, simple three-layer structure
• 2nd Generation: Metal Fight Beyblade (2008-2012): Adoption of metal wheels, five-layer structure, increased weight
• 3rd Generation: Beyblade Burst (2015-2022): Introduction of burst gimmicks, multiple system evolutions over seven years
• 4th Generation: Beyblade X (2023-present): Extreme Dash, dedicated X stadium, speed-focused design

There is a development period of about 3 to 7 years between each generation, and each has been completed as an independent series. The longest-running was the Burst generation, which evolved from the original to Dual Layer, Super Z, Super King, DB, and BU, and has been loved for seven years.

Major Change Points by Generation

During the transitions between generations, there have been fundamental system overhauls rather than mere design changes.

The transition from the first generation to the second generation saw a significant innovation in materials with the adoption of metal parts from a plastic-centric approach. This increased weight significantly improved the impact and stability of battles. The introduction of metal wheels became a crucial turning point that elevated the strategic aspect of Beyblade.

The transition from the second generation to the third generation introduced the addition of a new victory condition called "Burst Finish." The rule that allows victory by disassembling the opponent's Beyblade created a different strategic element compared to the traditional spin finish or stadium out. Additionally, the change to a three-layer structure of layer, disk, and driver has enhanced customization freedom.

Then, the transition from the third generation to the fourth generation introduced an acceleration system called "Extreme Dash" linked with dedicated X stadiums. The new battle style that utilizes the extreme rails of the stadium for rapid acceleration achieves a sense of speed and exhilaration that had not been present in previous Beyblades.

1st Generation: Bakuten Shoot Beyblade (1999-2005)

Bakuten Shoot Beyblade is the origin of Beyblade, born in 1999. Released by Takara (now Takara Tomy), it created a huge boom in conjunction with the broadcast of the anime "Bakuten Shoot Beyblade." Its simple yet strategic customization and easy-to-play battle system captivated many children and laid the foundation for the Beyblade series that continues to this day.

Basic Structure and Features of Bakuten Shoot

Bakuten Shoot Beyblade consists of a three-layer structure: attack ring, weight disk, and blade base. The material is primarily plastic, with some metal weight disks used.

The attack ring is the part that determines the attack power, and its shape changes the attacking performance against opponents. The weight disk adjusts the weight balance, affecting the stability and endurance of the Beyblade. The blade base is an important part that determines the type of movement (attack, defense, stamina) based on the shape of the tip.

The simplicity of this three-layer structure achieved a delicate balance that made it easy for beginners to understand while also possessing strategic depth through combinations. One reason it was supported by children was its design, which allowed for part exchanges without tools, making it easy to switch by hand.

Representative Beyblades and Popular Series

As a representative Beyblade of the Bakuten generation, the protagonist's machine, the "Dragoon" series, can be mentioned. It was characterized by speedy attacks with a spike attack ring and a flat axis, symbolizing the attack type. Numerous variations such as Dragoon S, Dragoon F, and Dragoon G were released in line with the development of the anime.

The representative of the defense type is the "Draciel" series. It features a rounded, defensive attack ring and stability from a ball axis, making it suitable for defense tactics that deflect the opponent's attacks. The "Dranzers" series was popular for the stamina type, achieving long spins due to its balanced shape and pointed axis tip.

Additionally, unique Beyblades like "Draciel," "Galeon," and "Garmar" appeared one after another as products, and their high collectibility supported the boom.

How to Play and the Appeal of the Bakuten Generation

The way to play Bakuten Shoot Beyblade is very simple. You give it a spin with a dedicated shoot gun or lip code launcher and battle in the stadium. You win by spinning longer than your opponent or knocking them out of the stadium.

The charm of this generation lay in its deep strategy despite simple rules. The basic strategies of attacking with an attack type, solidifying defense with a defense type, or engaging in a stamina battle with a stamina type were established during this era. Moreover, the ease of casually battling with friends in parks or schools was a significant factor in becoming a social phenomenon.

Second Generation: Metal Fight Beyblade (2008-2012)

Metal Fight Beyblade is the second generation series that debuted in 2008. Its most significant feature is the adoption of metal wheels, which greatly increased the weight compared to the Bakuten generation, enhancing the intensity and strategy of battles. It was launched alongside a new anime series, reigniting the Beyblade boom.

Innovative Structure of Metal Fight

Metal Fight Beyblade consists of a five-layer structure: face, clear wheel, metal wheel, track, and bottom. The core of this structure is the metal wheel made of zinc alloy.

With the adoption of the metal wheel, the weight of the Beyblade body increased to about two to three times that of the Bakuten generation. This weight increase enhanced the impact force during battles, resulting in powerful clashes between metals. Additionally, the added weight provided stability, making it difficult to be easily knocked out, deepening the strategy of battles.

The five-layer structure also significantly increased customization options. In particular, the combination of the track (which determines the height of the axis) and the bottom (which determines the shape of the axis tip) allowed for fine performance adjustments, enabling enjoyable competitive battles.

Representative Metal Fight Beyblades

The iconic Beyblade of the Metal Fight generation is the "Pegasis" series. As the protagonist's machine, it featured an aggressive metal wheel shape and a flat-type bottom for high-speed attacks. Storm Pegasis, Galaxy Pegasis, and Big Bang Pegasis evolved in line with the progression of the story.

The rival machine "El Drago" had the unique characteristic of left rotation, and its distinctive strategy of absorbing the rotation of the opponent's Beyblade was popular. Powerful metal wheels dedicated to left rotation, such as Meteor El Drago and L Drago Destroy, left a strong impression.

Other types of Beyblades, such as the defense type "Bull" series and the stamina types "Kerbeus" and "Phantom Orion," were also developed. In particular, Phantom Orion boasted incredible stamina due to its low-friction bearing axis and was a renowned machine that excelled in tournaments.

Changes Brought by the Metal Generation

The Metal Fight generation evolved Beyblade from a "toy" to a "competitive hobby." The introduction of metal parts clarified the impact of weight and shape on performance, creating enjoyment in considering customization from a scientific approach.

Additionally, the scale of official tournaments expanded, with large-scale national tournaments being held. Since the performance differences of metal wheels were clear, research and practice to win in tournaments became active, increasing the competitiveness of the community.

The sound of metal clashing and the visual effects like sparks have become important elements that enhance the intensity of battles, evolving into a spectacular hobby that can be enjoyed by spectators.

Generation 3: Beyblade Burst (2015-2022)

Beyblade Burst debuted in 2015 and was developed over approximately seven years until 2022 as the third generation series. The biggest innovation was the introduction of a new victory condition called "Burst Finish," which allows players to win by disassembling their opponent's Beyblade, creating a level of strategy and exhilaration never seen before.

Mechanism and Appeal of the Burst System

Burst Beyblades are composed of a three-layer structure: layer, disk, and driver. Each part is secured with a locking mechanism, which gradually releases during battles due to impacts. When the lock is completely released, the Beyblade disassembles, resulting in a "Burst Finish" and a victory for the opponent.

This burst gimmick introduced a third victory condition in addition to the traditional spin finish (when the spinning stops) and over finish (when it goes out of bounds). With a scoring system where a Burst Finish is worth 2 points and other finishes are worth 1 point, strategic maneuvering has emerged.

The ease of bursting varies based on the locking strength of the layer, weight distribution of the disk, and the shape of the driver’s axis, allowing for fine adjustments through customization. The choice between enhancing attack power to aim for a burst or focusing on defense and locking strength to prevent a burst has significantly deepened the strategic aspect of battles.

Evolution of the Burst Generation (Original to QuadDrive)

The Burst generation underwent multiple system evolutions over its seven-year span. The early original Burst featured a simple structure known as a single layer, but evolved into a dual-layer system in 2016, resulting in a two-layer structure.

In 2017, the "Super Z Layer System" was introduced, increasing attack power and weight by incorporating metal parts into the layer. The "GT Layer System" in 2019 allowed the layer itself to be disassembled into three parts (base, weight, chip), further enhancing customization freedom.

The "Super King Layer System" (Sparking) in 2020 adopted a new structure with rings and chassis, introducing larger and heavier Beyblades. The "DB Layer System" (Dynamite Battle) in 2021 featured independent cores and blades, allowing for switching between left and right rotation.

In 2022, the "BU Layer System" (Burst Ultimate) and the overseas "QuadDrive" system marked a completion of the Burst generation.

Representative Burst Beyblades

The representative models of the Burst generation are from the "Valkyrie" series. Starting with the original Valkyrie Wing Accel, various variations emerged with the evolution of each system, including Storm Spriggan, Winning Valkyrie, and Saber Valkyrie.

The "Spriggan" series, featuring dual rotation capabilities, was also very popular, allowing for flexible strategies tailored to opponents. Models like God Valkyrie, Super Z Spriggan, and World Spriggan were prominent competitors in their respective generations.

Additionally, a variety of Beyblades such as the defensive types "Longinus" and "Fafnir," and the stamina types "Fornheus" and "Helios" supported the long-running series over seven years.

Generation 4: Beyblade X (2023-Present)

Beyblade X is the latest fourth generation series that debuted in 2023. By linking with a dedicated X Stadium, it features an acceleration system called "Extreme Dash," providing unprecedented speed and dynamic battles. It is gaining attention as a new generation of Beyblade alongside a new anime series.

New System of Beyblade X

The most notable feature of Beyblade X is the "Extreme Rail" set up in the dedicated X Stadium. When a Beyblade rides on this rail, it accelerates rapidly, triggering the "Extreme Dash" and charging at the opponent at high speed. This system dramatically changes the flow of battles, creating an unpredictable exhilaration.

The structure of the Beyblade X itself consists of three layers: blade, ratchet, and bit. The blade determines the shape for attack and defense, the ratchet adjusts height and weight balance, and the bit determines the type of movement based on the shape of the axis tip.

What is particularly noteworthy is that the bit parts are designed in a way that makes it easier to activate "Extreme Dash." Flat-type bits are actively easier to ride on rails, while sharp-type bits have the characteristic of maintaining rotation in the center, requiring strategic customization.

Differences and Evolution Compared to Previous Generations

Beyblade X is designed with a focus on speed compared to previous generations. The acceleration power of Extreme Dash greatly surpasses that of traditional attack types, featuring exhilarating battles where the outcome is decided in an instant.

Additionally, the stadium itself plays a significant role as part of the battle system, which is a major difference. Skills such as reading the position and timing of the extreme rails and predicting trajectories after going off the rails are now required.

The burst gimmick has been abolished, and the victory conditions have changed to new rules: spin finish, over finish, and "extreme finish" (knocking out of the arena with Extreme Dash). With the absence of bursts, durability has improved, making the design less prone to breaking even in intense battles.

Major Products Currently Available

The representative model of the initial lineup of Beyblade X is "Dron Sword." As the protagonist's model, it features balanced performance and attack power that utilizes Extreme Dash.

Other unique Beyblades with distinctive blade shapes, such as "Hell's Size," "Wizard Arrow," and "Shark Edge," are being released one after another. Each model has its own strategic characteristics, and the use of Extreme Dash and maneuvers within the stadium vary.

New products continue to be released after 2024, with powerful new models and rare parts added in line with the anime's developments. Beyblade X is the latest generation that continues to evolve in real-time.

Compatibility and Differences Between Beyblade Generations

The four generations of Beyblade have different structures and sizes, so there is basically no compatibility across generations. Each generation is designed as an independent system, and mixing parts is generally not allowed. Here, we will explain the reality and precautions regarding intergenerational compatibility in detail.

Can You Play Together Across Generations?

In conclusion, it is not recommended to battle with Beyblades from different generations. Each generation has significant differences in size, weight, and structure, making fair battles impossible and increasing the risk of damage.

For example, if you pit a plastic-centered Beyblade from the Burst generation against a heavy Metal Fight generation Beyblade, the weight difference will cause the Burst generation to be unilaterally knocked away. Additionally, using a Burst generation Beyblade in the Beyblade X X Stadium will not perform well due to poor compatibility with the extreme rails.

Official tournaments have rules that require the use of Beyblades from the same generation. To enjoy fair battles, it is essential to compete with Beyblades from the same generation.

Part Compatibility by Generation

Part compatibility within each generation is generally guaranteed. Beyblades from the Burst generation can be freely customized with parts from the same Burst generation. The same applies to Metal Fight, Burst, and X; parts can be exchanged within the same generation.

However, caution is needed regarding the Burst generation. Over the course of seven years, the system has evolved multiple times, so compatibility between the early single-layer and the latest DB layer is limited. The layer parts may not be attachable if the generations differ, but disks and drivers tend to have relatively high compatibility, allowing for many combinations.

Additionally, the Burst generation has markings such as "Dual Layer Compatible" and "Super Z Compatible," which can be checked on the packaging or instruction manual for compatibility. By confirming the compatible systems before purchase, you can enjoy without waste.

Which Generation Should You Start With? Recommendations by Generation

For those who are about to start Beyblade, choosing which generation to select is an important question. The optimal generation varies depending on your goals and preferences, so here are recommendations based on different situations.

For First-Time Beyblade Buyers

For those who are experiencing Beyblade for the first time, I recommend either the latest Beyblade X or the more accessible later products from the Burst generation.

Beyblade X is currently being developed, with new products being released one after another. It is prominently displayed in toy sections, making it easy to obtain. Additionally, the anime is currently airing, allowing fans to enjoy it alongside the characters and story. The exhilaration of Extreme Dash can be experienced immediately, even by beginners, and it offers an easily understandable fun.

On the other hand, many stores still have stock from the Burst generation (especially DB and BU generations), and prices may be relatively affordable. The thrill of Burst Finish and the enjoyment of choosing from a wide variety of customization parts are appealing even to beginners. However, since the future development of new products has ended, it may become difficult to obtain parts in the future.

For Those Returning from the Past

If someone who used to play Beyblade is starting again, one method is to look for sequels from the generation they played.

For those who played during the Burst generation, it is recommended to either search for Beyblades from that time in the second-hand market or enjoy a new experience with the latest Beyblade X. Since products from the Burst generation have been out of production for many years, obtaining new ones is difficult, but second-hand and collector's edition reprints are available.

Similarly, those who played during the Metal Fight generation will primarily obtain items from the second-hand market. However, the impact and weight of metal materials are partially inherited in the current generation, allowing for a rediscovery of the charm of metal parts in the Burst generation's Super Z Layer or DB generation.

For those who recently played in the Burst generation, it would be good to continue with the Burst generation as long as stock is available or transition to Beyblade X in search of new excitement.

For Collection Purposes

If you are collecting Beyblades for the purpose of collection, it is most satisfying to prioritize your favorite generation or design.

Each generation has its own unique design and charm. The Burst generation features retro and rich designs, the Metal Fight generation is characterized by the texture and heaviness of metal, the Burst generation has colorful and diverse layer designs, and Beyblade X is known for its stylish and futuristic design.

Additionally, choosing a generation based on your favorite anime characters or stories is also a good choice. Collecting Beyblades of characters you have an attachment to increases the satisfaction of your collection. Especially, the Burst generation has released a vast variety over its seven years of development, making it a highly collectible generation.

If you are looking for rarity or investment purposes, early products or limited editions from the Burst generation or Metal Fight generation may be traded at high prices. However, prioritizing pure enjoyment will allow you to continue this hobby for a long time.

Summary: Understanding and Enjoying the Differences Between Beyblade Generations

The four generations of Beyblade each have their own unique charm and technological innovations. The simplicity as the origin of the Burst Shoot, the weight and impact of Metal Fight, the strategy and refreshing gimmicks of Burst, and the high-speed battles of Beyblade X offer different ways to enjoy each generation.

Since each generation is not compatible with one another, it is important to decide which generation to play when starting. Considering the current ease of acquisition and future expandability, starting with the latest Beyblade X is the smoothest option, but there are also strong fans of past generations, and obtaining them in the second-hand market is possible.

Choose a generation that fits your purpose and preferences, and enjoy the deep world of Beyblade.