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Zenless Zone Zero

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Zenless Zone Zero
Item: Zenless Zone Zero
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Comedy, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJul 2, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DevelopermiHoYo

Overview

The story takes place in the near future, where a mysterious natural disaster known as the "Hollows" has occurred. A new kind of city has emerged in this disaster-ridden world known as "New Eridu". This last 'oasis' has mastered the technology to co-exist with the Hollows, and is home to a whole host of chaotic, boisterous, dangerous and very active factions. As a professional 'Proxy', you will play a crucial role in linking the city with the Hollows.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero impresses with its unique setting and engaging characters, but critics are split on its narrative quality. While the complex story and urban-fantasy elements capture some reviewers, others find it shallow and incoherent, with predictable twists and overly technical dialogue. Ultimately, the game has potential but struggles with depth and execution, leaving it as a mixed experience that could improve with future content.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions on the story of Zenless Zone Zero reveal several positive aspects that critics have highlighted. Many reviewers appreciate the game's unique setting and engaging characters. For instance, Gameliner points out the complex narrative filled with twists and turns, particularly focusing on protagonists Wise and Belle. Similarly, GamingBolt commends the compelling narrative and world-building, emphasizing the interesting characters and urban-fantasy elements. The game’s post-apocalyptic backdrop, as noted by Digital Trends and Guardian, provides a rich canvas for storytelling, blending futuristic city politics with personal interactions. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com also praise the engaging dialogue and impressive animated cutscenes that enhance the storytelling experience. However, the narrative is not without its criticisms, as several reviewers express concerns about its depth and coherence. But Why Tho? and PC Gamer argue that the story lacks engagement and feels shallow, serving more as a marketing vehicle than a meaningful narrative. GameMAG echoes this sentiment, noting that much of the story is conveyed through empty dialogues and non-interactive comics, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, GINX TV points out that complex tech terms can lead to a disconnect with players, making the story difficult to follow. Critics like GamesRadar+ mention predictable elements that hinder the narrative's impact, suggesting that while it has potential, it often falls short of delivering groundbreaking twists. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Zenless Zone Zero presents a mixed narrative experience. While many appreciate the engaging characters and unique setting, there are significant concerns regarding depth, pacing, and coherence. The game appears to offer a captivating world with potential for future content, as noted by Gamer.nl, but it struggles with execution in its current form. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TheSixthAxis indicate that while the story improves with progression, initial pacing issues and a lack of depth may deter some players. Thus, Zenless Zone Zero stands as a title with intriguing concepts, yet it must address its narrative shortcomings to fully resonate with its audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero impresses with its dynamic combat and diverse character abilities, earning praise for strategic gameplay and variety in modes. However, critics highlight issues with repetitive combat, grinding, and excessive microtransactions, which may hinder long-term enjoyment. While it boasts a solid foundation, the game needs refinement to elevate player experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Zenless Zone Zero has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging combat mechanics and diverse character abilities. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and Gfinity, praised the combat system for its depth and strategic elements, likening it to hack-and-slash action games. The ability to switch between characters dynamically during battles adds an exciting layer of strategy, as noted by TheSixthAxis and IGN. Critics also appreciated the variety of gameplay modes, including exploration and mini-games, which contribute to a rich gaming experience. Movies Games and Tech emphasized the importance of team composition and combo optimization, while Eurogamer noted the variety of mission types that keep the gameplay fresh. Despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks that can detract from the overall experience. A common theme among reviews is the repetitiveness of combat and exploration, with critics like Digital Trends and PC Gamer noting a lack of depth over time. Some reviewers, such as GameMAG and Atomix, highlighted the grinding nature of resource collection and battles, which can feel monotonous. Additionally, the gacha system and excessive microtransactions were mentioned as potential hindrances to enjoyment, as Atomix pointed out. Certain mechanics, like navigating the labyrinth, were deemed tedious by Gameliner, further contributing to the criticisms regarding pacing and engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Zenless Zone Zero offers a compelling and dynamic gameplay experience, it is marred by repetitive elements and a lack of depth in some areas. The combat system is widely regarded as the standout feature, with its fast-paced and engaging mechanics receiving accolades from multiple reviewers, including IGN and GINX TV. However, the game's reliance on grinding and the presence of microtransactions have raised concerns about its long-term enjoyment. As a result, while the game has strong foundations, it may require further refinement to address the issues raised by critics and enhance the overall player experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero has wowed critics with its stunning visuals and unique art style, drawing comparisons to Persona 5 and Jet Set Radio. Reviewers praise the vibrant, detailed urban-fantasy world and charming character designs, with many calling it Hoyoverse's best visual work yet. However, some critiques highlight issues like rigid animations and a lack of depth in certain visuals. Overall, while the graphics are a standout feature, there's still room for refinement, setting a high bar for future titles in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Zenless Zone Zero is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its stunning visuals and unique art style. For instance, Gameliner noted that the game is visually stunning, enhancing the overall experience, while Eurogamer highlighted the beautiful art style reminiscent of titles like Persona 5 and Jet Set Radio. Critics like GamingBolt and Gfinity emphasized the exceptional visuals and attention to detail, with Gfinity specifically noting the charming character designs and stylish visuals that rival even the Persona series. The vibrant and detailed urban-fantasy world was frequently mentioned, with Gamer.nl stating that the game excels in visual design, showcasing colorful characters and diverse settings. Despite the accolades, some critics pointed out areas where the visual design could be improved. But Why Tho? mentioned that while the character designs are visually interesting, the overall visual style does not stand out as exceptional. IGN France noted that although the visual design is rich and detailed, some character animations appeared rigid. Additionally, PC Gamer expressed that while the vibrant visuals are reminiscent of Hi-Fi Rush, they felt superficial and lacked substance. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many aspects, there are elements that could benefit from further refinement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Zenless Zone Zero boasts impressive graphics and a distinctive visual style that effectively enhances the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming, who called it Hoyoverse’s most accomplished visual work to date, agree that the game's art direction and animation contribute significantly to its appeal. However, a few critiques regarding animation rigidity and superficiality indicate that while the game excels in many areas, there is still room for improvement. Overall, the positive reception of the graphics and visual design reinforces the game's artistic merits and sets a high bar for future titles in the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero shines with its immersive sound design and strong voice acting, praised for enhancing gameplay. Critics celebrate the eclectic soundtrack—mixing jazz, funk-pop, and hip-hop—that complements its urban-fantasy setting. However, some find the music lacks originality and memorability, suggesting it feels generic. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment is positive, recognizing the audio as a key strength, while hints at potential for a more unique musical experience remain.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Zenless Zone Zero is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's immersive audio experience. Reviewers like Gameliner and TheSixthAxis highlight the fully voiced cast, which adds depth to character interactions and enhances immersion. Critics such as Digital Trends and Hey Poor Player commend the soundtrack for its eclectic mix, noting that the jazzy and funk-pop elements create a captivating atmosphere that complements the game's urban-fantasy setting. Gfinity also emphasizes the music's ability to elevate combat encounters, making battles feel intense and engaging. This variety in musical styles, from hip-hop and rap influences noted by Gamer.nl to the energetic electronic tracks mentioned by Atomix, contributes to a rich audio tapestry that supports the game's aesthetic. Despite the overall acclaim, some criticisms emerge regarding the soundtrack's originality and impact. Atomix describes the soundtrack as "generic," suggesting that while the music serves its purpose during combat, it lacks uniqueness. This sentiment is echoed by a few other critics who feel that while the music is enjoyable, it does not necessarily stand out in the broader landscape of video game soundtracks. IGN France's observation about the sound design benefiting from Dualsense features, yet lacking specific commentary on the music, hints at a disconnect between the innovative sound technology and the music's memorability. Additionally, Twinfinite's suggestion that the game could benefit from custom songs with lyrics points to a desire for a more personalized musical experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Zenless Zone Zero excels in its sound design and voice acting, creating an immersive experience that enhances gameplay. While there are concerns about the soundtrack's originality, the variety and quality of the music are generally well-received, with many reviewers acknowledging its role in enriching the game's atmosphere. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Jeuxvideo.com appreciate the blend of influences that contribute to the overall vibe, indicating that while there may be room for improvement, the sound design and music are significant strengths of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero's voice acting is widely praised for enhancing character depth and immersion, with critics lauding its quality and charm. However, some reviewers criticize the dialogue as inconsistent and character personalities as one-note, leading to mixed opinions. Overall, while the voice performances shine, they may not meet every player's expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Zenless Zone Zero has garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting it as a strong point of the game. Reviewers such as Atomix and Hey Poor Player emphasize the quality of the voice acting, noting that it effectively captures the personalities of the characters and enhances the overall charm and immersion of the game. Eurogamer and GamesRadar+ compliment the combination of unique character designs with brilliant voice performances, which contribute to a richer storytelling experience. Additionally, Gfinity appreciates the succinct and lively dialogue that fosters enjoyable character interactions, while TechRadar Gaming acknowledges the polished execution across all dubs, reinforcing the positive sentiment surrounding the voice acting. However, not all opinions are favorable. But Why Tho? criticizes the characters' personalities as being one-note and annoying, leading to a tendency to skip dialogues to avoid what they describe as inane chatter. GINX TV also points out that the dialogue delivery can be flat at times, suggesting that the humor in character interactions is inconsistent. This sentiment is echoed by some critics who feel that while the voice acting is generally strong, there are moments where it falls short, impacting the overall enjoyment of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the voice acting in Zenless Zone Zero is largely praised for its quality and contribution to character depth, there are notable criticisms regarding the consistency of character personalities and dialogue delivery. Critics like IGN and TechRadar Gaming highlight the charm and immersion brought by the voice performances, yet dissenting voices like But Why Tho? and GINX TV remind us that not every aspect of the voice acting resonates positively with all players. This mixed feedback suggests that while the voice acting is a strong element of the game, it may not fully satisfy every player's expectations.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero shines on PC with exceptional performance and optimization, earning praise for smooth gameplay even on low-end systems. Mobile versions also impress with adjustable settings and intuitive controls. However, the PS5 struggles with frame rate drops and load times, and some mobile devices experience slowdowns. Overall, while PC performance is strong, improvements are needed for a consistent experience across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Zenless Zone Zero has garnered a generally positive reception across various platforms, particularly on PC. Critics like Digital Trends and GINX TV praised the game for its smooth performance and optimization, highlighting that it runs well even on low-end PCs. IGN France and Jeuxvideo.com also noted that the game performs admirably on mobile devices, with the latter mentioning adjustable graphics settings that cater to device capabilities, which is beneficial for players with varying hardware. Overall, the intuitive controls designed for mobile play received acclaim, suggesting that the developers have successfully adapted the game for different gaming environments. However, there are notable concerns regarding performance on specific platforms. TechRadar Gaming reported that the PS5 version experiences significant performance issues, including frame rate drops during intense combat and in larger areas, which detracts from the gaming experience. Siliconera echoed this sentiment by mentioning that load times can be problematic on older machines, indicating that not all PC configurations may deliver the same level of performance. Additionally, IGN France pointed out potential slowdowns on mobile devices, suggesting that while the game is optimized, there is still room for improvement in terms of performance consistency across platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided but generally favorable view of Zenless Zone Zero's technical performance. While the PC version is lauded for its optimization and smooth gameplay, the PS5 version faces criticism for performance issues that could hinder the experience. Mobile performance is appreciated, though concerns about optimization remain. Critics like Hey Poor Player and GamingBolt highlight that while there are minor performance issues, they are infrequent and do not overshadow the game’s strengths. Thus, while the game excels in many areas, particularly on PC, it still has some hurdles to overcome on other platforms to ensure a uniformly high-quality experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero offers a mix of engaging content and character variety that critics celebrate for potential replayability. Positive reviews highlight daily missions, roguelike modes, and challenging boss battles as key features that encourage ongoing play. However, concerns about grind-heavy mechanics, repetitive combat, and a reliance on gacha systems and microtransactions cast doubts on sustained enjoyment. While the game lays a solid foundation for replayability, critics warn its execution may feel more focused on monetization than genuine player engagement, leaving room for improvement to keep players coming back.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Zenless Zone Zero reveal several positive aspects that critics appreciate. Reviewers like Gameliner and IGN highlight the game’s extensive content and variety of characters, enhancing the overall replayability. Critics such as Movies Games and Tech and Gfinity point out the inclusion of various activities, including daily missions, roguelike modes, and endgame challenges, which contribute to a rich gameplay experience. Eurogamer and Jeuxvideo.com emphasize the potential for long-term engagement through side commissions and challenging boss battles, suggesting that players can continuously find new challenges to tackle. The game’s design encourages daily play and character progression, as noted by TheSixthAxis, indicating a structure aimed at keeping players invested over time. However, the reviews also reflect significant concerns about the game's replay value. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameMAG express that the game lacks sufficient incentive for players to return, particularly criticizing its grind-heavy nature and the repetitive combat mechanics. Digital Trends and GINX TV echo these sentiments, noting that while there are elements of replayability, the grind required for character progression can become tiresome and may detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, the gacha system and microtransactions mentioned by Atomix and PC Gamer raise concerns about the game’s reliance on monetary spending, which could limit accessibility and enjoyment for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While many acknowledge the variety of content and activities that Zenless Zone Zero offers, there is a prevailing concern about the grind and repetitive elements that could hinder long-term engagement. Critics like GamingBolt and IGN France recognize the potential for replayability through ongoing content updates and character collection, but others like PC Gamer and GINX TV caution that the design may feel more like a monetization strategy than a genuine effort to enhance replay value. Ultimately, while the game has strong foundations for replayability, its execution leaves room for improvement to ensure sustained player interest and enjoyment.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Zenless Zone Zero has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging gameplay, unique character designs, and visually appealing presentation. Reviewers like Atomix and IGN highlight the game's addictive combat system and variety of activities, marking it as a compelling experience within the free-to-play model. Critics such as Eurogamer and Hey Poor Player appreciate the blend of action and slice-of-life elements, praising the engaging world-building and character interactions that contribute to a vibrant gaming experience. Additionally, Gameliner and Jeuxvideo.com commend the game for its compactness compared to other titles like Genshin Impact, suggesting that it successfully combines various elements to create an entertaining package. However, the game is not without its drawbacks. Several critics, including But Why Tho? and GameMAG, express disappointment with the repetitive nature of the combat and the overall lack of depth in the story, calling it forgettable. The gacha system and microtransactions are also points of contention, with Atomix and PC Gamer noting that these elements can detract from the overall experience, leading to a perception that the game may prioritize monetization over quality gameplay. Critics like Digital Trends and TechRadar Gaming mention issues with pacing and performance, suggesting that while the game has potential, it suffers from certain technical shortcomings that could hinder player enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards a cautiously optimistic view of Zenless Zone Zero. While many reviewers acknowledge the game's engaging combat and stylish presentation, there is a notable concern regarding its repetitive elements and monetization strategies. Critics like Gamer.nl and IGN Brasil recognize the game's potential and engaging mechanics, yet caution that it may overwhelm newcomers or fall short of the exploration depth seen in previous titles from HoYoverse. Ultimately, Zenless Zone Zero appears to be a solid entry in the gacha genre, appealing to a specific audience while leaving room for improvement in future updates and content.

TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero impresses with addictive combat, unique characters, and stylish visuals, earning praise from critics for its engaging gameplay and world-building. However, it struggles with repetitive combat, a shallow story, and monetization issues, leading to mixed reviews. While it shows potential in the gacha genre, it may overwhelm newcomers and lacks the depth of past titles from HoYoverse. Improvements are needed for a more satisfying experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

58 reviews found

100

Twinfinite

Jul 3, 2024