A hack-and-slash action-RPG with an urban appeal
Zenless Zone Zero is a free multiplayer action game dubbed as the next Genshin Impact. This role-playing game is set in a futuristic universe where civilization as you know it no longer exists. The world is now overrun by supernatural creatures called Ethereals. Developed by miHoYo Co. Ltd., it’s available on PC, mobile devices, and console.
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In the middle of the chaos, you play as a demon-dimension explorer in Zenless Zone Zero, tasked with shutting down these dimensions and stopping Ethereals. With its generous help of exploration and fighting, it’s poised to be a good alternative to Genshin Impact.
Be the best demon-dimension explorer
Eager fans of Zenless Zone Zero are looking for clues that could link it to other miHoYo titles such as Genshin Impact or Honkai Impact 3rd. There are no direct references in terms of story, though, although the familiar gameplay is there. One case in point is the use of a gacha mechanic for unlocking other characters in the game, which unfortunately favors those willing to invest real-world money.
Unfortunately, its gameplay doesn’t stray far from its sister titles. It also adopts a real-time action approach instead of a turn-based strategy like the one in Honkai - Starrail. It’s driven by a unique story premise that should allow endless gameplay, although the mechanics themselves largely remain in the tried-and-tested formula of the Chinese video gaming giant. It doesn’t take away anything from the awesome and visually charged animations and interactions.
In terms of visuals, it can hold its own against other major games from the same developer-publisher. It has a unique take on a post-apocalyptic future, focusing on a more urban feel for both its characters and its set designs. This design option ultimately gives the game its visual identity, allowing it to endear itself to players who prefer styles reminiscent of GhostWire: Tokyo or Persona 5 Strikers. However, unlike Genshin Impact or Honkai: Star Rail, its urban setting means less emphasis on open-world exploration, which some players may find restrictive.
Exciting updates in version 2.5
Zenless Zone Zero’s version 2.5 update brings a wealth of new content and enhancements for fans. The main story, To Be Fuel for the Night, continues with the sixth chapter of Season 2, introducing exciting plot developments and challenges.
This update adds two new S-rank agents: Ye Shunguang, the first dual-form Void Hunter, and Zhao, a versatile support character focused on Ice - Defense. Players can also enjoy three new W-engines and the addition of S-Rank Bangboo Sprout, expanding combat strategies and team compositions.
New locations open up for exploration, including Old Port Factory, Porcelume Processing Base, and Lumite Mine, providing fresh environments and opportunities for discovery. Limited-time events such as Special Visitor, Sword Seeker Chronicles, and Shadow Riptide Clash offer unique rewards and challenges, keeping gameplay exciting.
Other highlights of this update include the Buyan Store, filled with secrets and collectibles, as well as several new systems designed to strengthen agents, streamline functions, and enhance community interaction. Overall optimizations and bug fixes further improve gameplay, ensuring a smoother experience for long-time fans.
Yet another Genshin Impact
Zenless Zone Zero remains a curious game in its own right despite miHoYo’s other major titles. Its approach to a post-apocalyptic future that looks pretty urbanized creates a unique identity for the game, which could also explain its enduring appeal despite not adding anything new or unique to the gacha action-RPG genre. Experienced players would feel all too familiar playing this hack-and-slash game.
