Here are five of the best moments from Zenless Zone Zero in 2024.
Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ), the latest action-RPG from HoYoverse, only launched earlier this July but has already left a significant mark on the gaming world. With a whirlwind of new updates, features, agents, and stories, it feels as though the game has been out for much longer. As 2024 comes to a close, let’s revisit some of ZZZ’s standout moments.
New Eridu Public Security Introduced in Undercover R&B
The first-ever version update of Zenless Zone Zero brought three new agents: Qingyi, the reserved yet witty character often underutilised in gameplay; Jane Doe, a mysterious, edgy and sexy rat thiren who stirred both intrigue and controversy; and Seth, the over-eager newcomer with boundless enthusiasm.
While Jane Doe captured much of the spotlight, the stories and personalities emerging from the New Eridu Public Security (N.E.P.S.) added a unique flavour, even if they felt somewhat disconnected at times. Here’s hoping that future updates provide more insight into this team.
Ridu Renovation: TV Mode removed and quality-of-life updates
One of ZZZ’s strengths lies in how responsive the developers are to community feedback. Many players found TV Mode inconvenient for completing story commissions and requested time-control features to expedite quests.
Acknowledging these concerns, the developers posted a detailed update on X (formerly Twitter), outlining upcoming changes based on player input.
By September, TV Mode was removed, and subsequent updates in versions 1.2, 1.3 and 1.4 introduced more of the promised quality-of-life improvements, including the option to walk around New Eridu as different agents. The devs also didn't forget players who love a good challenge, as they continued to add content with varying levels of difficulty to keep things interesting.
The Outer Ring… and mocktails, mixers, and ice
One of the year’s most enjoyable and light-hearted additions was The Outer Ring, its quirky residents, and its charismatic leaders.
The Sons of Calydon took centre stage, particularly Caesar, whose story initially tugged at heartstrings before veering into playful chaos. Burnice became an instant fan favourite with her infectious theme song and meme-packed music video. “The snacks are real nice” might be all we know about her, but she’s undoubtedly endeared herself to players.
On a more serious note, Lighter’s story offered emotional depth. From his quiet presence in the Tour de Inferno to revelations about his traumatic past and charmingly awkward flirtations with Proxy, Lighter also emerged as an unexpectedly compelling character.
Hoshimi Miyabi arrives in version 1.4
December saw the arrival of one of ZZZ’s most anticipated characters, Hoshimi Miyabi. Everything about her debut felt special, with episodic storytelling that felt more like an anime series.
Miyabi’s kit is both powerful and easy to grasp, complemented by elaborate skill animations. As one of the most overpowered agents so far, her release sets a high bar for what future agents might bring.
One hell of a way to wrap up: A Storm of Falling Stars
The final chapter of the year, A Storm of Falling Stars, was a true highlight. Players were treated to a fully animated clip showcasing the chaos a Hollow can bring, setting the stage for the story’s release.
As the chapter unfolded, earlier narrative threads began to converge. Characters from different factions finally crossed paths, signalling that something monumental was on the horizon—except, perhaps, for the ever-elusive Obol Squad.
There's also a good escalating fight that I thought would end up with the player having to fight using all factions at some point (which would have been incredible!). Still, the chain of events and the appearance of nearly everyone delivered that classic "Avengers Assemble" moment.
Though brief, the chapter offered a satisfying conclusion to what feels like the end of a season. It shed light on the Proxies’ history and the disaster while leaving lingering questions and setting the stage for more mysteries to unravel in 2025.
