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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

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 captivating urban-fantasy narrative and rich world-building, earning praise for its engaging characters and chaotic action. However, critics are split, with many citing execution flaws—such as shallow missions, unengaging dialogue, and predictable story elements—that hinder player immersion. While some see potential in the evolving storytelling, others argue it falls short of its ambitions, leaving room for significant improvement.

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 regarding the story of Zenless Zone Zero highlight several positive aspects that critics appreciate. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and Gfinity, commend the game for its compelling narrative and interesting characters set against a unique urban-fantasy backdrop. The world-building is often described as rich, with immersive storytelling that captivates players, as noted by Twinfinite. Critics like Digital Trends and Eurogamer praise the narrative setup, emphasizing the engaging interactions among various factions and characters. The game's blend of chaotic action and slice-of-life moments, as highlighted by Eurogamer, adds depth to the storytelling, while Atomix finds the simple yet engaging narrative appealing due to its use of familiar anime tropes. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's execution and depth. But Why Tho? expresses disappointment, stating that the narrative lacks engagement and depth, with missions feeling small in scope. Critics like GameMAG and PC Gamer echo this sentiment, pointing out that much of the story is conveyed through unengaging dialogue and comic panels, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, GINX TV raises concerns about the complexity of the narrative, which can lead to a disconnect for players, particularly those unfamiliar with the game's tech-heavy terminology. Critics like GamesRadar+ and IGN Brasil also mention that while the story has potential, it suffers from predictable elements and pacing issues that disrupt the narrative flow. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who appreciate the engaging world and character dynamics and those who find the narrative lacking in depth and coherence. While some, like Siliconera and TechRadar Gaming, note improvements in storytelling as the game progresses, others, such as PC Gamer and But Why Tho?, highlight significant flaws that hinder player immersion. The game presents a vibrant setting filled with potential, yet its execution leaves room for improvement, indicating that while Zenless Zone Zero has a captivating premise, it may not fully deliver on its narrative ambitions.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero impresses with engaging combat mechanics and character variety, praised for its depth and strategic play. However, it suffers from repetition, tedious gameplay elements, and a frustrating gacha system, making it a mixed experience—great for action fans but potentially dull for those seeking variety and challenge.

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 among critics, highlighting its engaging combat mechanics and diverse character options. Reviewers such as Gfinity and GamingBolt praised the combat system for its depth and strategic elements, emphasizing the ability to switch between characters and perform satisfying combos. The game’s exploration phases and mission variety, noted by Eurogamer and IGN France, add to its appeal, offering players a mix of combat, puzzles, and city commissions. Critics like Hey Poor Player and Guardian appreciated the fluidity of the combat mechanics and the intuitive nature of character swapping, which contributes to a dynamic and enjoyable gameplay experience. However, several reviews pointed out significant drawbacks that affect the overall enjoyment of the game. Many critics, including Digital Trends and GameMAG, noted issues with repetition and a lack of depth in combat, suggesting that while the mechanics are initially engaging, they can become monotonous over time. The tediousness of certain gameplay elements, such as navigating the labyrinth or grinding for resources, was highlighted by Gameliner and PC Gamer, indicating that some aspects of the game may detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the gacha system and microtransactions mentioned by Atomix could hinder the enjoyment for players looking for a more straightforward experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Zenless Zone Zero offers a compelling blend of action RPG elements with engaging combat and character dynamics, yet it suffers from repetitive gameplay and some tedious mechanics. While the combat is frequently described as a standout feature, the lack of enemy variety and the grind-heavy nature of certain tasks can detract from the experience, as noted by critics like But Why Tho? and IGN Brasil. The game presents a mixed bag, appealing to fans of fast-paced action but potentially frustrating those seeking a more varied and challenging experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise Zenless Zone Zero for its stunning visuals and unique art style, drawing comparisons to Persona 5 and Jet Set Radio. The vibrant urban-fantasy world and character designs shine, but some point out inconsistencies like rigid animations and weak enemy designs. Overall, it’s seen as one of HoYoverse's best visual efforts, though there’s room for improvement.

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, such as Gameliner and TechRadar Gaming, praised the game for its stunning visuals, with Gameliner noting that the graphics significantly enhance the overall experience. Critics like Eurogamer and GameMAG highlighted the beautiful art style, drawing comparisons to iconic titles like Persona 5 and Jet Set Radio, while Gamer.nl emphasized the vibrant and detailed urban-fantasy world that stands out for its style and animations. The character designs have also received acclaim, with Atomix and Gfinity appreciating the diverse and charming aesthetics that contribute to the game's unique identity. The seamless blend of futuristic and retro elements, as noted by Movies Games and Tech, further enhances the game's engaging visual presentation. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out areas where the visuals fall short. But Why Tho? described the overall visual style as not exceptional, while PC Gamer mentioned that the vibrant aesthetic feels somewhat superficial, lacking depth. IGN Brasil echoed this sentiment, noting that while the graphics are beautiful, some enemy designs were considered weak. Additionally, IGN France pointed out that certain character animations appeared rigid, suggesting that while the visuals are impressive, there are inconsistencies in execution that detract from the overall experience. These critiques indicate that while the game excels in many areas, there are still aspects that could benefit from refinement. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Zenless Zone Zero features an impressive visual design that effectively combines various artistic influences, creating a captivating world for players to explore. The majority of reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and TheSixthAxis, commend the game's graphics as some of HoYoverse's best work, with a unique style that resonates with fans of the genre. However, the acknowledgment of certain shortcomings, such as animation quality and some design choices, suggests that while the game is visually striking, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the positive reception of the graphics and visual design indicates a strong foundation that could be built upon in future updates or sequels.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero impresses with its immersive sound design and fully voiced cast, enhancing narrative and gameplay. Critics praise its eclectic soundtrack—from jazzy to funk-pop—but some find it lacks originality, noting certain tracks feel generic. Overall, the game shines in audio experience, though it has room for improvement in musical distinctiveness.

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 sound design and music of Zenless Zone Zero have garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's immersive audio experience. Reviewers like Gameliner and TheSixthAxis emphasize the fully voiced cast, which significantly enhances the game's narrative and character engagement. Critics such as Digital Trends and Hey Poor Player commend the soundtrack for its eclectic mix, with genres ranging from jazzy tunes to funk-pop and lo-fi elements, contributing to an atmospheric backdrop that complements gameplay. Gfinity praises the music's ability to elevate combat encounters, particularly during boss fights, while Gamer.nl notes how the hip-hop and rap influences align with the urban-fantasy setting, further enriching the game's aesthetic. However, not all opinions are favorable. Atomix critiques the soundtrack as generic, particularly noting that while the combat music includes energetic electronic and dubstep tracks, it lacks uniqueness. This sentiment is echoed by some critics who feel that despite the variety, certain elements of the soundtrack do not stand out as memorable. IGN France also mentions the sound design's enhancement through DualSense features but does not elaborate on the music itself, suggesting a missed opportunity to discuss its impact. The mixed feedback regarding the soundtrack's originality indicates that while some tracks are well-received, others may not resonate as strongly with players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Zenless Zone Zero excels in voice acting and sound design, creating an immersive experience that aligns well with its narrative and setting. Critics like Eurogamer and TechRadar Gaming highlight the soundtrack's ability to enhance the gameplay experience, even if some aspects, such as the originality of the music, are debated. The combination of varied musical influences and effective sound design contributes to a generally positive impression, positioning the game as a noteworthy entry in its genre while leaving room for improvement in musical distinctiveness.

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 critiques highlighting its polished execution. However, some reviewers find the dialogue flat and characters one-dimensional, leading to a split in reception. Overall, while voice acting adds charm, inconsistencies in dialogue quality may impact player enjoyment.

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 a largely positive reception among critics, with many highlighting it as a standout feature of the game. Reviewers such as Atomix and IGN praised the quality of the voice acting, noting that it effectively captures the personalities of the characters, thereby enhancing the overall charm and immersion of the game. Gameliner emphasized that the full voiceover for all characters adds depth to the storytelling and character interactions, while TechRadar Gaming pointed out the polished execution across all dubs, which contributes positively to the overall experience. Furthermore, GamesRadar+ noted that the varied character designs are complemented by the brilliant voice acting, suggesting a harmonious relationship between visual and auditory elements that enriches the gameplay experience. However, not all opinions are favorable. Some critics expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of the dialogue and character interactions. But Why Tho? criticized the characters' personalities as being one-note and annoying, leading to a tendency to skip dialogues to avoid what they described as inane chatter. GINX TV echoed this sentiment, describing the dialogue delivery as flat at times and noting that character interactions can be hit or miss in terms of humor. This suggests that while the voice acting may be technically sound, the content and delivery of the dialogue do not always resonate with all players, potentially detracting from the overall experience for some. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in Zenless Zone Zero. While many reviewers, such as Hey Poor Player and TheSixthAxis, highlighted the depth and quality of the voice acting as a significant asset to character interactions, others pointed out shortcomings in the dialogue and character development. This duality indicates that while the voice acting is generally well-received and adds a layer of charm to the game, there are notable inconsistencies that could affect player engagement and enjoyment. The mixed feedback suggests that players may have varied experiences based on their tolerance for the dialogue's quality and character portrayal.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero shines on PC and mobile with smooth performance and optimization, even on lower-end hardware. Critics praise its intuitive controls and adjustable graphics. However, the PS5 version faces issues like frame rate drops and slowdowns, detracting from the experience. Overall, while minor improvements are needed, the game is still seen as a solid, enjoyable package for most players.

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 largely positive reception across various platforms, particularly on PC and mobile. Critics like Digital Trends and GINX TV highlight the game's smooth performance and optimization, even on lower-end PCs, which is a significant advantage for players with varying hardware capabilities. Jeuxvideo.com echoes this sentiment, noting that both PC and mobile platforms offer smooth gameplay, with adjustable graphics settings that cater to the device's power. The intuitive controls designed for mobile play have also been praised, making the game accessible and enjoyable across different devices. However, there are notable concerns regarding performance on specific platforms. IGN France points out potential slowdowns on the PS5, indicating that this version may require further optimization. TechRadar Gaming reinforces this by mentioning frame rate drops during intense combat and in larger areas on the PS5, suggesting that the console experience may not be as polished as that on PC. Additionally, Siliconera notes that older machines may experience issues with load times, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. Although GamingBolt acknowledges some performance issues, they are described as infrequent, indicating that while there are problems, they do not significantly detract from the overall gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Zenless Zone Zero performs admirably on PC and mobile platforms, with various reviews highlighting its smooth gameplay and optimization. However, the PS5 version appears to struggle with performance issues that could affect user experience, as noted by both IGN France and TechRadar Gaming. Despite these concerns, the general sentiment is that the game is a well-crafted and enjoyable experience, with minor improvements suggested for quality-of-life enhancements, as mentioned by TheSixthAxis. This indicates that while there are areas for improvement, the game is still regarded as a generous package that many players will find satisfying.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero has potential replay value thanks to its rich content and diverse gameplay, with critics praising its combat, puzzles, and various side activities. However, concerns loom over its grind-heavy mechanics and gacha system, which may deter players due to repetitive gameplay and costly microtransactions. The consensus is split: while some celebrate its depth, others warn that lack of incentives and tedious elements could undermine long-term engagement. Success hinges on future updates and player-driven improvements.

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 of various critics regarding the replay value of Zenless Zone Zero reveal a spectrum of positive aspects that enhance the game's longevity. Many reviewers, such as Gameliner and IGN France, highlight the game's extensive content and diverse activities, including combat, puzzles, and life simulation elements, which contribute to a rich gameplay experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Gfinity emphasize the variety of side activities, such as daily quests and unique endgame modes, which provide players with ample opportunities to engage with the game beyond the main storyline. Furthermore, Eurogamer notes the appeal of side commissions and endgame challenges, catering to both casual players and those seeking deeper engagement, while GamingBolt reinforces the notion of plenty of side content to keep players interested. Conversely, several critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value, primarily due to its grind-heavy nature and the potential for repetitive gameplay. Atomix and GameMAG point out that the gacha system and microtransactions could limit enjoyment and deter players from returning, as significant time or monetary investment may be required to access all content. Critics like Digital Trends and GINX TV also mention the repetitive nature of combat and the tiring grind for character progression, which can negatively impact the overall engagement and enjoyment of the game. Additionally, But Why Tho? and PC Gamer suggest that the game lacks sufficient incentive for players to keep returning, indicating a shortfall in its game-as-a-service model. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide between those who appreciate the game's depth and variety and those who find its grind and monetization strategies off-putting. While many reviewers, including IGN and Jeuxvideo.com, recognize the potential for replayability through diverse activities and character collection, others caution that the tedious elements and reliance on gacha mechanics may hinder long-term engagement. The game's ability to provide a compelling experience seems contingent on future updates and improvements, as noted by Gamer.nl, suggesting that while Zenless Zone Zero has a solid foundation for replay value, its success will ultimately depend on how it evolves in response to player feedback and ongoing content expansion.

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 mix of praise from critics, highlighting its engaging gameplay, diverse character designs, and visually appealing aesthetics. Reviewers such as Atomix and IGN lauded the game for its addictive combat system and unique story elements, which contribute to a compelling experience. Gameliner emphasized the game's ability to blend various elements effectively, offering a compact experience compared to other titles like Genshin Impact. Critics like Eurogamer and Gfinity also appreciated the game’s stylish presentation and strong world-building, suggesting that it has the potential for a rich gameplay experience, particularly for fans of the genre. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers pointed to issues with the gacha system and excessive microtransactions, which can detract from the overall experience. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameMAG expressed disappointment in the game's repetitive combat and lack of emotional engagement, while PC Gamer went so far as to describe it as a "polished facade for a monetization scheme." Additionally, some critics noted a steep learning curve and pacing issues, which could alienate newcomers or casual players. The mixed sentiments regarding the story's depth and character development further underscore the game's shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Zenless Zone Zero presents a visually stunning and engaging experience, albeit with notable flaws. While many reviewers, such as IGN France and Jeuxvideo.com, recognized the game's charm and potential for future updates, others like GINX TV and PC Gamer expressed skepticism about its long-term appeal due to its monetization practices and gameplay repetition. The game appears to be a solid entry in the gacha RPG genre, with a strong foundation that could be built upon, but it currently faces challenges that may hinder its broader acceptance among players.

TL;DR

Zenless Zone Zero impresses with engaging gameplay, diverse characters, and stunning visuals, receiving praise for its addictive combat and strong world-building. However, it faces criticism for a problematic gacha system, excessive microtransactions, repetitive combat, and pacing issues. While it has potential, its monetization practices and lack of emotional depth raise concerns about long-term appeal, leaving it a solid but flawed entry in the gacha RPG genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

58 reviews found

100

Twinfinite

Jul 3, 2024