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The biggest sin of Zenless Zone Zero is that it’s geared toward casuals, but that may be the number one reason it could become popular. HoYoverse has released several successful titles, and they have become a giant in the Gacha community. From Genshin Impact to Honkai Star Rail, I assumed the company was unlikely to create another big hit. However, they somehow did it with the release of ZZZ. Although there is some negativity against this game, I would like to argue that Zenless Zone Zero is a breath of fresh air for HoYoverse fans.
Zenless Zone Zero’s Combat Is Disgustingly Easy
If you are coming to Zenless Zone Zero expecting challenging combat, then be prepared to be disappointed. HoYoverse has never aimed to create a difficult game, unlike FromSoftware with its Dark Souls series. They have always catered to casual gamers, and it is very clear when you’re playing ZZZ.
In fact, you can button-mash your way to victory in most battles. If you mess up your dodge and get hit, you won’t get punished and will only lose a small amount of HP. You are guaranteed to clear the challenge as long as you reach the recommended level for that stage.
Still, that doesn’t mean that playing Zenless Zone Zero is boring. Oh no; the game is absolutely fun to play with its great graphics and sound design. ZZZ wants to make you feel like a bad-ass, and it succeeds like no other. Parrying is not that difficult, but the sound of clashing blades never fails to make me feel giddy, even after experiencing it numerous times.
Each agent also has their own unique moveset that shows their combat capability. From Billy’s sharp shooting skill to Lycaon’s powerful kicks, I never tire of watching them take down Hollow monsters. The final Wipe Out screen you get after completing the stage is merely the cherry on top.
Grinding? What’s That?
Although Zenless Zone Zero still requires you to grind, it’s much more forgiving than Genshin. I remember how much time I dedicated to leveling up my Adventure Rank to access the next Archon quest. As much as I enjoy Teyvat, I’m glad I don’t have to spend extra time exploring New Eridu.
Open-world games are a treat, but no matter how good something is, you will eventually get sick of eating the same thing. Frankly, I found no joy when I trod my way through Inazuma to gather Raiden’s Ascension materials. I also do not like catching those pesky Crystal Flies so I can craft Condensed Resins.
Luckily, Zenless Zone Zero does not force you through this needless tedium. The HIA’s VR Simulation is very generous in giving rewards, and you don’t have to waste a lot of time every day grinding. I usually need to complete three to five quick battles to consume all of my Batteries.
Considering how quick grinding is in Zenless Zone Zero, I can see myself building many agents. I never felt the same desire when playing Genshin since I have to hunt down mobs and gather wildflowers to ascend one character. The only one that can beat ZZZ in this aspect is HSR with its auto-battle.
Goodbye Daily Commissions
Another of Genshin‘s cardinal sins that Zenless Zone Zero does not commit is the long daily commissions. Listen, I don’t have the patience to escort this Transport Balloon as it takes its sweet time going from point A to B every week.
HoYoverse has certainly tried to fix this issue, but I still cannot gather enough energy to log in daily. Frankly, I only play the game whenever there is new story content or an event I’m interested in. My current Genshin team can already bulldoze all enemies in the main story, and I have no desire to try the Abyss challenges.
Zenless Zone Zero still has daily quests, but they are much easier to complete. They range from drinking this coffee to taking a photo of that cute cat. I can see myself completing these missions even when I don’t have the willpower to get up from bed.
