Summary
The HoYoverse multiverse continues to expand with the upcoming launch ofZenless Zone Zero. Described as a free-to-play action RPG with sci-fi fantasy themes,Zenless Zone Zerotakes place in New Eridu, where a group of talented individuals known as Agents will fight side-by-side to uncover the mysteries of the post-apocalyptic world. The newHoYoversetitle will be out very soon, on July 28, 2025, adding to the developer’s already-packed lineup of gacha games.
As far as gameplay goes, HoYoverse fans get aGenshin Impactvibe withZenless Zone Zerobecause of its exploration and combat features. It also has hints of other HoYoverse titles, such asHonkai Impact 3rdandHonkai: Star Rail, which makes it worth checking to explore the games' universe further.
Zenless Zone Zero Brings a Cool New Story Experience
The Similarities and Differences With Genshin Impact
Genshin Impactis known for its vast open-world setting, where players can use a wide range of characters to explore and fight enemies while accomplishing missions. The combat utilizes hack-and-slash mechanics wherein players can switch between characters to create ability combos and apply certain effects onto enemies. These features are also evident inZenless Zone Zero, which also allows players to build characters and create viable teams for main story missions and the roguelike TV mode.
In a departure from other HoYoverse games,Zenless Zone Zero’s combat mechanics are inspired byStreet Fighter 6.
However,Zenless Zone Zerodoesn’t seem to have the same open-world exploration asGenshin Impact. The latter has several regions in Teyvat that players can explore the nooks and crannies of, whileZenless Zone Zerois confined to the city of New Eridu. Based on initial clips, the game seems to have limited exploration, similar toHonkai: Star RailandHonkai Impact 3rd, where they can only access certain areas in order to complete a mission. It’s also possible thatZenless Zone Zeromight open more cities beyond New Eridu.
Both games have interesting characters with abilities that serve various purposes, from dealing damage to providing support.Zenless Zone Zerostands out as characters come from different factions that work towards the same goal of eliminating enemy forces from New Eridu. The protagonist, known as the Proxy, can either be Belle or Wise, who are siblings that run the movie establishment Random Play. UnlikeGenshin Impact, both characters will be present in the game regardless of who the player chooses, and the inactive character will become an assistant.
Zenless Zone Zero Protagonists
How Zenless Zone Zero Fits in the HoYoverse Multiverse
All HoYoverse games are confirmed to exist in the same multiverse, which explains the many alternate versions of characters in each game. But the developer also made it clear that these characters are not the same, and that they have individual lives in their respective universes.Zenless Zone Zerois expected to go the same route with story elements making references to other HoYoverse titles and possible character crossovers.
It’s still unknown howZenless Zone Zerowill connect to other HoYoverse games, but the most obvious reference so far is Belobog Heavy Industries, a faction that specializes in In-Hollow construction. Belobog is the name of a city inHonkai: Star Rail’s Jarilo-VI, which is the first planet that the Astral Express Crew travels to. Both Belobogs have connections to construction and heavy machinery, so it will be interesting to see how theZenless Zone Zerofaction and its members will play a role in the story.
HoYoverse is still keeping its cards close to its chest regarding other details aboutZenless Zone Zero, especially with possible alternate versions of characters, which is great for fans who want to experience it without prior notions. They do have high expectations for the game, especially with themassive success ofHonkai: Star RailandGenshin Impact, and hopefully it delivers.
Zenless Zone Zero
WHERE TO PLAY
Don’t go into the Hollows.I know, I know, there’s Ether in the Hollows, bizarre creations, even heritage of the old civilization, all precious treasures. But don’t forget, there’s also spatial disorder, monsters and mutants running rampant, and ultimately, a disaster that could swallow the world. They are not a place where ordinary people should go.So don’t go into Hollows.Or at least, don’t go in alone.If you insist on getting into danger, go to New Eridu first.This city where the good and the bad mix has many people who need the Hollows: Powerful wealthy tycoons, gangs that stalk the streets, conspiracy nuts, and ruthless officials.Make your preparations there, find strong allies, and most importantly—Find a “Proxy”.Only they can guide people out of the maze-like Hollows.Good luck!
