Zenless Zone Zero is one of the most exciting and stylish action RPGs from HoYoverse, the creators of Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail. Blending anime aesthetics, fast-paced combat, and an urban dystopian world, this game redefines what an action RPG can be in 2025.
From its slick visuals to its rhythmic combat and narrative depth, Zenless Zone Zero stands out as a truly unique experience—a modern masterpiece that fuses cyberpunk energy with roguelike mechanics and character-driven storytelling.
What Is Zenless Zone Zero?
Released globally in July 2024, Zenless Zone Zero is an urban fantasy action RPG set in the futuristic city of New Eridu—the last bastion of civilization after a mysterious disaster known as the Hollows devastated the world.
Players take on the role of a Proxy, a digital guide who helps “Agents” explore dangerous alternate dimensions, fight monsters called Ethereals, and uncover the secrets of the post-apocalyptic world.
Developed by HoYoverse, the studio behind massive hits like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail, ZZZ introduces a bold new visual identity and gameplay system that combines high-speed action, urban exploration, and roguelike missions.
Gameplay and Core Mechanics
1. Fast-Paced Real-Time Combat
Unlike the turn-based combat of Honkai: Star Rail or the open-world style of Genshin Impact, Zenless Zone Zero delivers real-time action that feels like a mix between Devil May Cry and Bayonetta.
Combat is fluid, combo-heavy, and stylish—every character has unique skills, weapon types, and elemental abilities. Players can switch between team members mid-battle to create devastating chain combos and perform perfect dodges, parries, and ultimates.
This makes every fight both cinematic and skill-based, rewarding players who master timing and precision.
2. Team Synergy and Character Roles
Each character in Zenless Zone Zero belongs to a faction (like Victoria Housekeeping or Cunning Hares) and has a role such as DPS, Support, or Tank.
Building the right team is key to success. For instance:
- Nekomata excels in agile melee combat.
- Billy Kid uses twin pistols for ranged attacks.
- Anby Demara brings balanced crowd control abilities.
Combining different attack types and attributes lets you trigger Chain Attacks and EX Special Moves, which are both visually stunning and strategically rewarding.
3. Roguelike Exploration in the Hollows
One of ZZZ’s standout features is its roguelike dungeon system. Players enter the Hollows—shifting labyrinths filled with enemies, traps, and loot.
Each run is different, requiring quick decision-making and adaptability. You collect resources called Ether, upgrade your squad mid-run, and unlock permanent upgrades back in the city.
This mix of risk, reward, and replayability keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging long after the story ends.
The World of New Eridu
New Eridu is a vibrant, futuristic city that combines modern tech, neon lights, and post-apocalyptic decay. It serves as the hub for all player activities—a place where you manage resources, upgrade equipment, interact with NPCs, and accept new Hollow missions.
The city’s design is a highlight—filled with anime-inspired visuals, graffiti art, and rhythmic soundscapes that make it feel alive. You’ll visit record stores, cafés, and arcades, each with its own unique NPCs and stories.
This living city not only enhances immersion but also ties into the game’s theme of survival and human resilience in a world on the brink.
Blooming into a New Era: Why Cozy Gamers are Hyped for Tales of the Shire.
Storyline and Narrative Depth
At the heart of Zenless Zone Zero lies a narrative about identity, technology, and chaos. The story explores how humanity adapts in a fractured world full of unpredictable rifts.
As a proxy, you’re more than just a guide—you’re a crucial link between the physical world and the Hollows. Each mission deepens your understanding of New Eridu’s mysteries, factions, and the true nature of the Ethereals.
The storytelling is episodic and cinematic, using in-game cutscenes, dialogue choices, and beautifully animated sequences that rival anime productions.
Visuals, Style, and Soundtrack
Visual Design
Visually, Zenless Zone Zero is aesthetic perfection. HoYoverse uses cel-shaded graphics to achieve a mix of anime charm and urban realism. Every frame looks like a piece of art—from glowing city streets to the chaotic Hollow landscapes.
The game’s UI and menus also reflect its urban theme, resembling a futuristic operating system rather than traditional RPG menus. This design choice enhances immersion and brand identity.
Soundtrack and Audio
Music plays a major role in ZZZ’s identity. The soundtrack blends EDM, hip-hop, lo-fi, and rock, giving every combat sequence a rhythmic flow. Each faction and character even has its own musical motif.
The English and Japanese voice acting are both top-tier, bringing personality and charm to every interaction.
Playable Characters and Factions
Zenless Zone Zero launched with over 15 playable Agents, each belonging to a distinct faction with unique backgrounds and fighting styles.
Popular Characters Include:
- Anby Demara—a loyal enforcer from Cunning Hares known for her electric attacks.
- Nekomata—A cat-like rogue specializing in agility and close combat.
- Billy Kid—The gun-slinging, fast-talking member of Cunning Hares.
- Nicole Demara—tactical leader and proxy ally.
- Rina (Victoria Housekeeping)—A polite maid with devastating area control.
More characters are added through updates, following HoYoverse’s gacha system—where players can pull new characters via banners using in-game currency.
Progression and Customization
Players can upgrade:
- Weapons
- Skills
- Drive Discs (gear system)
- Bamboos
Customization allows you to fine-tune your Agents for specific builds—for example, boosting elemental synergy or focusing on critical damage.
Progression feels rewarding, and unlike some gacha games, ZZZ gives players steady resources to upgrade without excessive grinding.
Multiplatform and Performance
Zenless Zone Zero is available on:
- PC (Epic Games & HoYoverse Launcher)
- PlayStation 5
- iOS and Android
Cross-platform syncing ensures your progress carries between devices. On PC and PS5, the game supports 4K graphics, 60+ FPS, and ultra-high detail levels, delivering smooth and responsive gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zenless Zone Zero free-to-play?
Yes, Zenless Zone Zero is a free-to-play action RPG with optional microtransactions. Players can obtain new characters and weapons via the gacha system.
How is it different from Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail?
Unlike Genshin’s open world or Honkai’s turn-based system, ZZZ focuses on real-time combat in compact, urban environments with roguelike exploration and cyberpunk storytelling.
Can you play Zenless Zone Zero offline?
Currently, the game requires an internet connection to access servers, even for single-player content.
Does Zenless Zone Zero support controllers?
Yes! It fully supports controllers on PC and mobile, offering responsive and precise action gameplay.
What’s the best team composition for beginners?
A balanced team with Anby (DPS), Nicole (Support/Control), and Billy Kid (Ranged DPS) provides a strong foundation for early missions.
Conclusion
Zenless Zone Zero is a bold evolution in HoYoverse’s design philosophy—merging anime artistry with slick combat, deep narrative, and urban atmosphere. It’s not just a game; it’s an audiovisual experience that captures the essence of futuristic action storytelling.
With its fluid combat system, cinematic visuals, and constantly expanding content, Zenless Zone Zero stands tall as one of the best new-generation RPGs of 2025. Whether you’re drawn to stylish combat, character-driven stories, or HoYoverse’s signature polish, ZZZ delivers a thrilling adventure unlike any other. For gamers who love high-speed action wrapped in a neon-lit dystopia, Zenless Zone Zero isn’t just worth playing—it’s a must-play experience.
