Review: Zenless Zone Zero

SUNDABET - I've been on the Hoyovere train for the past few years with the immensely popular Genshin Impact and the futuristic Honkai: Star Rail. So when I first heard about their latest title, Zenless Zone Zero, I was curious to see how this new project stands out from their ever-expanding library of gacha-based titles.

Since the developer's latest action RPG, SUNDABET Link, was released in 2022, it has undergone several open beta tests. Hoyovere has spent considerable time in early access testing to adapt this supernatural apocalyptic adventure and transform it into something noble and distinct from its predecessors. Having recently tested this latest preview myself while exploring the world of ZZZ, I realized it's quite different from previous Hoyovere entries, particularly in its lack of an open-world feature.

Initially, I thought this element would make my experience dull, but I soon realized how much I enjoyed not spending hours just to reach a single point on the map. Furthermore, its cutscenes are not overly lengthy, saving more time. Zenless Zone Zero could be seen as a gacha game for those not keen on long introductory moments. It's perfect for people like me with shorter attention spans and a zest for tossing enemies.

Zenless Zone Zero (PC [confirmed], Android, iOS, and PlayStation 5)

Developer: HoYoverse

Publisher: HoYoverse

Release Date: July 4, 2024

Price: Free (with Microtransactions)

In Zenless Zone Zero, you experience the lives of main characters Belle and Wise. These siblings are known for their technical expertise in the latest modern civilization, New Eridu. As is typical in apocalyptic scenarios, you soon discover that their entire universe has been devastated by a supernatural disaster known as the Hollow, unleashing terrifying ethereal enemies. Belle and Wise are tasked with saving humanity from this chaos by assuming the role of agents, a profession that guides others through the void dimension.

A unique feature is that the main characters do not participate in battles at all. They merely stand by, cheering on other characters who dare to enter the fray. While unconventional for main characters to be non-combatants, this gives you a chance to get to know the entire team better. Belle or Wise do not play any role, and they go unadorned at the beginning of the mission.

If you start a mission outside Nova Eridu, you will soon control an agent. Characters like Billy the Kid, Nicole and Anby are among the first you'll meet, and they're part of a quirky ensemble. Then the battle to take down the disruptive Ethereum begins. This is perhaps one of the parts I enjoy, as Zenless Zone Zero's combat mechanics rely heavily on smooth co-op tactics, even in the fast-paced moments.

Characters are also easy to control on the battlefield thanks to an intuitive targeting system. This RPG guides you to take on the next opponent as the current target drops, avoiding odd mistakes in action and keeping the battle flowing smoothly. Teamwork is included in almost everything as a recommended feature because agents often help each other as the story progresses. Helping attacks is my favorite because it deactivates the current fighter for new attacks with their successor.

This is a great alternative to avoid the standard and can be more useful if done well. While mostly satisfying, I think most early ZZZ games are too easy. Maybe because of the early access version, or perhaps Hoyovere offers simple initial training. I must admit that some parts felt a bit boring, but the layers of ZZZ's work are more than enough to maintain its appeal here.

Regardless, I find the combat very enjoyable, especially given the nature of the agents and fighting styles. This system works like other RPGs, using various elemental attacks and specific roles as support. I really like the use of Billy the Kid, especially his attack where he fires a projectile in a wild spinning motion. I've used this move several times and can't get over how cool it looks. The slow motion cutscene that appears after the last enemy is killed is also nice to watch. These are small and simple details that feel very rewarding after a difficult task.

Alongside all the battles, you'll also encounter unique hollow exploration. Rather than walking from point A to point B in a mission, you have to move your character on a game board environment by selecting rooms you want to aim for. Many interesting items are presented here, ranging from gift collections to boss battles. In most cases, players must think strategically when moving characters, or they may disrupt existing paths.

While I prefer open-world, it's very refreshing to see exploration in this way. I think about the times I felt frustrated in adventure games, typical scenarios against many enemies to reach a specific area. The tension really disappears in Zenless Zone Zero, as many paths can be quickly and easily traversed. Of course, not all trips are short, especially in more difficult terrain and strategic thinking.

Completing Hollow Exploration will bring you back to Nova Eridus. This is a relatively compact map, especially when compared to the vast landscape of Genshin Impact. However, thanks to its many exciting features, it seems much larger than it actually is. Random Play video storage is your main operational base. I've realized my Blockbuster fantasy here, choosing films for regular store customers.

After your ride, enjoy a hot cup of coffee at Coff Cafe or fill your stomach at SUNDABET Link. It's a nice change from the constant combat intervals. And these shops prepare your character for the next battle. My favorite place in New Erid is Godfinger Arcade. I always like that there is a starter form that allows you to experience games within a game. So far I've only tried two arcade adventures with Soul Hounds III and Snake Duel. Another round of the game brings me back to Snake's past, moving around creatures to increase their size.

Arcades and grocery stores only cover some of what's available in New Eridus. ZZZ also has upgrade shops and VR training to make your character stronger. VR training replaces battles that aren't too demanding as they offer advanced tests that take you on a wild journey. Additionally, Nova Eridus offers many side missions to introduce you to its inhabitants. I really enjoyed these small adventures, although most of them are about playing ball with the adorable creature, Bangboo. Bangboo's cuteness alone made me fall in love with ZZZ, especially as they are valuable assets in battle.

On the other hand, getting to know everything in Nova Eridu can be a bit confusing, although other RPGs are about respecting boredom balance. I got lost a few times trying to remember how to do certain tasks mentioned earlier in the story. Fortunately, there is a tutorial section to help you get back on track.

Exploring new Eridu and other maps also benefits in its own way. I feel like miHoYo spent a lot of time designing characters and environments with various fashionable clothes and small details. The characters come to life with colorful personalities, striking costumes, and witty dialogue. Interesting discussions and back-and-forth make ZZZ Studio stand out among other favorite RPGs, and there are definitely many competitors here for the developer's affection.

Furthermore, Zenless Zone Zero alters the plot by replacing some scenes with cartoon-style tapes. The images are not only visually appealing but also shorten the pace of overly long stories. This is very different from my time in Genshin, but shorter encounters and moments are more interesting to me, who doesn't always like long episodes.

This is a great option for Genshin Impact fans looking for something new. Even if you don't like Hoyovere's other games but love their service model, ZZZ offers a fun twist on the typical gacha game. There's plenty of content to keep you entertained for hours, even if you wouldn't call it open world, and with so much to do, it's easy to appreciate the lengthy content available. Not to mention, Zenless Zone Zero will continue to grow with expected updates.

Additionally, SUNDABET Link ZZZ likes smart design principles—remembering what people love about other Hoyovere characters and dividing those moments into short, concise parts. It's very easy to pick up and put down, and for something playable on the go, this is clearly Hoyovere's most popular title. Right now, I'm fully committed to New Eridu and want to see players and the world develop in the same way as Honkai and Genshin.