Zenless Zone Zero review: HoYoverse’s latest is simple, stylish, and satisfying

Zenless Zone Zero Score Details Pros

Strong identity and style
Simple, satisfying combat
Meaningfully connects characters in story
Convenient for on-the-go

Cons

Puzzle-to-action ratio feels off
Repetitive combat strategy
Grind can feel shallow

HoYoverse has made a name for itself over the years creating imaginative, ambitious games that have redefined the mobile market.Zenless Zone Zero is the latest feather in its cap, though one that doesn’t immediately impress as much as its predecessors. It doesn’t have the sprawling, open-world ecosystem of Genshin Impact or the layered turn-based system of Honkai Star Rail. In my Zenless Zone Zero preview, I highlighted the disconnect between the player’s role as the Proxy, a guide through the Hollows, and its otherwise satisfying yet simple action RPG combat. The final game doesn’t do much to bridge that gap, but I learned to appreciate its unique identity more as I explored its world and what it had to offer outside of action.

Zenless Zone Zero takes place in a futuristic world plagued by pocket dimensions called Hollows, which are filled with Ethereals, its bad guys. Only those that can withstand Ether corruption can explore the Hollows without turning into monsters themselves. That’s where Hollow Raiders like the Cunning Hares come in. Players take control as either Belle or Wise, two siblings running a video store as a front for their Proxy business. As a Proxy, players get to work with clients across the board to complete covert missions that no one else can take on without drawing prying eyes of journalists and law enforcement.

This strong setup offers a great reason to look into the lives of multiple charming characters and a uncover wider story of city politics, all while taking part in high-energy battles. Zenless Zone Zero may not be HoYovere’s best game, but it’s certainly its most stylish and unique to date.