HoYoverse has consistently impressed with its imaginative and ambitious games, redefining the mobile gaming landscape. Zenless Zone Zero, their latest offering, while not as immediately captivating as its predecessors, Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail, gradually reveals its unique identity as you explore its world.
Zenless Zone Zero takes place in a futuristic world plagued by pocket dimensions called Hollows, filled with Ethereals, the game’s antagonists. Only those who can withstand Ether corruption can venture into the Hollows without succumbing to the monstrous transformation. This is where Hollow Raiders, like the Cunning Hares, come in. Players step into the role of either Belle or Wise, siblings who run a video store as a front for their Proxy business. As a Proxy, you undertake covert missions for clients, venturing into the Hollows to handle tasks that would draw unwanted attention from journalists and law enforcement. This compelling setup provides a compelling reason to engage with the diverse and charming cast of characters, unraveling a broader narrative of city politics amidst high-energy battles.
Zenless Zone Zero may not be HoYoverse’s magnum opus, but it undoubtedly boasts their most stylish and distinct game yet. The game’s design incorporates a unique puzzle element that sets it apart. After selecting a team of three characters, players embark on commissions within the Hollows, such as rescuing civilians or retrieving lost equipment. As the Proxy, you control a creature called a Bangboo, guiding your team through the Hollows, which are represented as mazes of TV screens. Each screen triggers different effects, offering challenges and rewards. While this concept works well for mobile play due to its accessibility, it can feel oddly disconnected from the game’s supposed danger and intensity.
Zenless Zone Zero addresses one of the primary issues with mobile ARPGs – clunky controls and camera issues – by utilizing the TV screen mechanic. Players navigate puzzle grids to reach smaller battle arenas, simplifying the experience. However, this clever design can sometimes overshadow the main attraction – combat.
Zenless Zone Zero shines when it comes to combat. It features the stylish, snappy action and animations you would expect from renowned franchises like Devil May Cry or Bayonetta, without the same level of skill required. Each character possesses basic attacks, special moves, charged attacks, and ultimate abilities, all accompanied by impressive visuals. Timed dodges add another layer of strategy, allowing players to counterattack or swap in a teammate for an assist.
The game’s signature hook lies in its baton pass system, where you swap in another party member after triggering an assist, who enters the battle with a powerful attack. This satisfying juggling act encourages players to utilize all their characters effectively.
Combat mechanics also include the Daze Gauge, which can be filled by using Impact attacks. Filling the Daze Gauge to full stuns the enemy, leaving them vulnerable to heavy damage. While this system offers a strategic element, it can feel unnecessary for players who prefer a more casual approach.
Compared to other games like Wuthering Waves, Zenless Zone Zero doesn’t prioritize a wide range of movement or intricate combos. However, this streamlined combat system works well within the game’s smaller scope. The tight hallways of the Hollows and the simplified combat make for a more accessible experience, reducing the potential for chaotic situations.
Another welcome departure from HoYoverse’s previous games is the reduced amount of text-heavy dialogue. Commissions are streamlined, focusing on puzzles and action with minimal text interruptions. This change feels like a response to player feedback, allowing players to get to the action faster. The game also excels at building drama within the main story, diving deeper into New Eridu’s mysteries and character backstories.
Zenless Zone Zero boasts bustling locales like New Eridu, offering opportunities to explore beyond the Hollows. Players can run a legal video shop, enhance their drop rates by indulging in coffee, and interact with locals in a Persona-like manner, adding a charming layer of daily routine to the game. These details demonstrate HoYoverse’s commitment to polishing this project, even if the eclectic vision might not resonate as strongly as their past successes. The game’s jazzy soundtrack further enhances the experience, making daily activities more enjoyable and relaxing.
Despite its complexity, Zenless Zone Zero ultimately presents a simple gameplay experience. Combat mechanics, while incorporating timed dodges and assists, are not essential for progressing through the story. Even underleveled or poorly equipped characters can survive the early chapters. This contrasts starkly with the more demanding strategy required in games like Honkai: Star Rail.
While the endgame involves grinding to strengthen your favorite characters, the experience feels more laid-back than other live-service games. There is less emphasis on min-maxing, reducing the pressure to acquire the best gear. Players are encouraged to experiment with different team compositions and level up characters at their own pace.
While the repetition can set in after a certain point, Zenless Zone Zero stands out as a visually striking and streamlined mobile game that translates well to PC and consoles. It excels in style but falls short in terms of combat depth, which can become repetitive over extended gameplay. Despite its limitations, Zenless Zone Zero has potential for success with regular updates, its captivating character-driven story, and intuitive gameplay. However, it would have benefitted from a greater focus on high-stakes, complex gameplay rather than prioritizing convenience.
Zenless Zone Zero was tested on PC, iPhone 12 Pro, and Lenovo Legion Go.
