The Zenless Zone Zero Experience: A Critical Analysis

Zenless Zone Zero is a free-to-play game that serves as a follow-up to Genshin Impact. The game starts with the character visiting a scratchcard stand as a daily ritual, which may raise some eyebrows due to its resemblance to real-life gambling practices. The presence of a cute dog as the sole employee at the stand seems to be an attempt to divert attention from this aspect. While the game claims to be “zenless” in its title, it offers a surprisingly chill experience if one can overlook the complexities of its in-game currencies and menus.

The city hub in Zenless Zone Zero is vibrant and colorful, filled with intricate details that add to its charm. From the relaxing lo-fi music to the noodle stall and skateboard deck bench, the environment exudes a sense of style and coolness. However, the presence of a trashcan emitting suspicious noises hints at a potential encounter with a cat or raccoon, adding a whimsical touch to the setting. The arcade machine in the street advertises mini-games, but unlocking them requires progress in the game. Despite the impressive visuals, the game falls short of offering the best futuristic city block experience in PC gaming, with noticeable invisible walls and dead ends that do little to enhance gameplay.

Zenless Zone Zero draws parallels to Persona 5’s mementos, offering dungeon trips for players to grind stats and farm items. While it attempts to capture the exploration element of the JRPG, it still feels like a thinly veiled attempt to push players into the gacha loop. The game’s intricate systems and opaque mechanics may confuse players, detracting from the overall experience. However, the attention to detail in the city streets and the effort put into creating immersive environments are commendable aspects of the game.

While Zenless Zone Zero boasts a stylish and visually appealing world, its underlying mechanics and gameplay loop may leave players feeling unsatisfied. The emphasis on gacha mechanics and the pressure to engage with microtransactions detract from the game’s potential for meaningful exploration and appreciation of craftsmanship. As I delve deeper into Zenless Zone Zero for a more comprehensive review, I hope to uncover hidden gems amidst its flashy exterior. Despite my initial reservations, I find myself drawn to the game’s sense of style and attention to detail, even if it struggles to strike a balance between aesthetics and gameplay depth.