My two weeks with Zenless Zone Zero have been a delightful escape, exceeding even my enjoyment of Genshin Impact. The game’s smooth combat, manga-inspired cutscenes, and engaging narrative, bolstered by a quirky cast of heroes, have completely captured my attention. But it was my boyfriend’s astute observation that truly made me appreciate the game’s unique charm: “Have we reached the point where video games are catering to 2000s nostalgia?”
This question resonated with me. After all, the 2000s are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with everything from Bratz and Invader Zim to Inuyasha and Lilo & Stitch making a comeback. Millennials and Gen Z alike are embracing the aesthetics of their youth, and I’ve certainly joined in, expressing my inner child through clothing even past the age of 30.
Zenless Zone Zero dives headfirst into this nostalgic wave, crafting a world that feels both futuristic and familiar. The game’s post-apocalyptic setting, where humanity is recovering from an attack by Ethereals, boasts a retro-futuristic aesthetic that evokes the early 2000s. New Eridu, the city built by survivors, is a vibrant mix of modern technology and nostalgic charm. Even the game’s protagonists, Belle and Wise, run a video rental store called Random Play, a clear nod to the iconic Blockbuster, complete with posters and tapes referencing popular media from the 90s and 2000s.
The nostalgic elements extend beyond the environment. Characters sport cargo pants, skater-style clothing, and platform footwear, reflecting the iconic fashion trends of the era. Technology in the game also blends the old and the new, with smartphones coexisting alongside flip phones reminiscent of the coveted Motorola Razr. Even the arcade features a game inspired by Snake, aptly named Snake Duel, allowing players to compete against each other.
The 2000s aesthetic isn’t just for show; it’s a reflection of a cultural moment. Zenless Zone Zero seamlessly blends its present-day setting with the turn of the millennium, creating a unique blend of hope and nostalgia. The residents of New Eridu, grappling with the devastation caused by the Ethereals, cling to pop culture as a source of comfort and escapism.
This deliberate embrace of 2000s nostalgia resonates with me on a deeper level. It evokes a sense of comfort and longing for simpler times, a time spent playing outside with friends, watching beloved cartoons, and immersing myself in the world of video games and fashion magazines. The game’s nostalgic touch offers a temporary escape from the complexities of the present, a welcome respite in a world grappling with political and environmental anxieties.
In conclusion, my boyfriend’s question was spot-on. Zenless Zone Zero is a testament to the power of nostalgia, particularly for millennials seeking a comforting retreat to their youth. It’s a game that celebrates the past while embracing the present, offering a unique and immersive experience for players of all ages.
