HoYoverse’s next project, Zenless Zone Zero, has been stirring up a storm since it was teased in May 2022. Similar to its beloved predecessors, Zenless Zone Zero promises a free-to-play action RPG experience with HoYoverse's signature gacha mechanics and unique character designs.
The story takes place in a city called New Eridu, which coexists with perilous alternate dimensions called "Hollows". Players take on the role of a "Proxy", who helps others explore these Hollows and fight monsters called the "Ethereal". Its urban fantasy setting and unique combat mechanics sets it apart from other HoYoverse games!
Zenless Zone Zero Release Date
According to an official announcement from HoYoverse, Zenless Zone Zero is set to launch on July 4, 2024 on all platforms worldwide.
Platforms
Zenless Zone Zero will be available for free on PC and Mac through HoYoverse's in-game client. Additionally, the Tokyo Game Show 2023 special program confirmed mobile versions for iOS and Android, and the latest PlayStation State of Play livestream announced that a PlayStation 5 version is currently in development for launch.
Zenless Zone Zero Characters and Lore
In this post-apocalyptic world, players find refuge within the vibrant city of New Eridu. While arcades and ramen shops line the streets, danger lurks just beyond the city walls. Mysterious "Hollows," described as abnormal spherical dimensions, appear at random, swallowing everything in their path and unleashing monstrous "Ethereals."
These apocalyptic rifts have become commercialized and monetized, with corporations and factions battling for the valuable resources they contain, known as "Ether." Players step into the shoes of a Proxy, which are small bunny-like robots, tasked with protecting survivors and gathering resources from within the Hollows.
Here are the five main factions that currently operate in Zenless Zone Zero’s New Eridu and their respective members:
- Gentle House (Cunning Hares): A human resource dispatch agency specialising in commissions related to the mysterious Hollows
- Nekomiya Mana, Billy Kid, Nicole Demara, Anby Demara
- Section 6: A newly formed frontline unit within the H.A.N.D. Special Operations Department that usually carries out the most dangerous tasks and boasts some of the most powerful members of any faction
- Hoshimi Miyabi, Soukaku
- Belobog Heavy Industries: A newcomer to New Eridu, focusing on infrastructure and construction machinery
- Grace Howard, Ben Bigger, Anton Ivanov, Koleda Belobog
- Victoria Housekeeping Co: This established human resource dispatch agency offers a wide range of high-quality services
- Ellen Joe, Alexandrina, Von Lycaon, Corin Wickes
- OBOLS Squad: Soldier 11 is currently the only known member of this faction. Their purpose and affiliations remain shrouded in mystery.
Zenless Zone Zero Gameplay and Mechanics
In combat, players control three "Agents" but can only actively play as one at a time, switching between them strategically. True to HoYoverse’s style, gacha mechanics allow players to recruit new Agents to bolster their combat prowess. This system often involves grinding, so be prepared for a considerable time investment to acquire and level up your desired Agents and weapons.
Based on beta test information, the game features three core mechanics: hack-and-slash combat, TV traversal puzzle minigames, and city area exploration. Expect roguelike elements, exciting features like chain attacks, perfect dodges and parries, and powerful ultimates.
That was everything we know about Zenless Zone Zero, HoYoverse's much-anticipated newest project. Stay tuned as we update this article with more information as it's released!
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