Zenless Zone Zero presents itself as a game torn between two distinct yet intertwined identities: one of chaotic action and another of relaxed urban exploration. The game oscillates between intense combat sequences set in dangerous ‘Hollow’ areas and quieter moments where players can engage in mundane activities like grabbing coffee or teaching a robot to play football.
Rather than choosing between these atmospheres, Zenless Zone Zero embraces both, offering a dynamic experience where players can enjoy combat challenges and leisurely city exploration with equal enthusiasm.
Despite its smaller scale compared to developer miHoYo’s other expansive titles like Genshin Impact, Zenless Zone Zero compensates with a richly detailed urban setting known as New Eridu.
The city’s post-apocalyptic streets are brought to life through beautiful art reminiscent of Persona 5 and Jet Set Radio, populated by NPCs with unique designs and personalities that rival even the main characters. This attention to detail extends to the main protagonists, Belle and Wise, who balance their roles as owners of a video rental store with their clandestine activities as techy “Proxies.”
The game’s missions are varied, encompassing city tasks, exploration challenges, and combat encounters. City missions allow players to interact with New Eridu’s inhabitants, engaging in quirky activities that add depth to the game’s narrative and world-building.
Exploration commissions, while less frequent, introduce a unique top-down perspective through the HDD TV mode, offering puzzle-like challenges that break away from the standard gameplay.
Combat missions, on the other hand, deliver adrenaline-pumping action as players battle Ethereal monsters in dynamic arenas. The game’s combat mechanics emphasize timing and coordination among squad members, rewarding players with satisfying chain attacks and flashy ultimates.
Despite the initial ease, the game offers deeper challenges for those seeking more strategic gameplay, including a hard mode and competitive time trials.
Zenless Zone Zero’s narrative unfolds episodically, akin to an anime series, focusing on faction-specific storylines interspersed with animated cutscenes and interactive comic book segments.
While the main storyline involving Belle, Wise, and their AI companion unfolds gradually, the game primarily explores the dynamics within various factions such as the Cunning Hares and Victoria Housekeeping, adding layers to its narrative depth.
However, the game’s progression can feel hindered by its live-service nature, requiring players to grind through unrelated side missions to meet Inter-Knot level milestones necessary for unlocking new story content.
Despite this pacing issue, Zenless Zone Zero excels in character development through Trust events, akin to Persona’s Social Links, which allow players to deepen relationships with NPCs through casual interactions and activities.
Like other miHoYo games, Zenless Zone Zero incorporates gacha mechanics for acquiring characters and gear, though it remains accessible to players who prefer not to engage deeply with these systems. The game’s Disk Drive gear system, akin to Diablo’s gear sets, adds a layer of customization and optimization for those pursuing endgame challenges but remains optional for casual players.
Zenless Zone Zero successfully blends its contrasting elements of action-packed combat and slice-of-life storytelling into a cohesive experience. Despite its smaller scope, the game offers depth through its detailed world-building, diverse mission types, and engaging character interactions, making it a compelling choice for both casual players and those seeking a deeper gaming challenge.
