Zenless Zone Zero: A Neon-Soaked Action Romp That Nails the Retro-Future Vibe

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about Zenless Zone Zero, even though it’s barely been out for a few months. As a retro enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for games that capture the spirit of the classics while pushing things forward, and this free-to-play action RPG from HoYoverse (the folks behind Genshin Impact) absolutely delivers that retro-futuristic punch. Set in the neon-drenched metropolis of New Eridu, you play as a Proxy—a guide who leads a squad of eccentric Agents into the eerie dimensional rifts known as Hollows. It’s a premise that feels ripped from a 90s cyberpunk anime, and the game wears those influences proudly.

Combat That Feels Like a Classic Beat-‘Em-Up on Overdrive

The core loop revolves around diving into Hollows, swapping between Agents mid-combo, and unleashing flashy, timing-based attacks. From what I’ve seen, the combat looks snappier than a Neo Geo brawler—dodges feel responsive, perfect counters land with a satisfying crunch, and each Agent’s fighting style oozes personality. One moment you’re pulling off a graceful sword dance, the next you’re hammering enemies with a giant weapon that would make a Final Fight boss jealous. The ability to switch characters on the fly creates a rhythmic flow that reminds me of the best character-action games, though without the punishing difficulty. It’s accessible, but there’s enough depth for those who want to master those tight parry windows.

Style and Sound: A Synthwave Dream

Visually, Zenless Zone Zero is a feast. The retro-futuristic Tokyo vibes are off the charts—flickering neon signs, rain-slicked alleyways, and character designs that feel like they stepped out of an Akira-inspired concept art book. I’ve caught myself just watching idle animations because each Agent has these little quirks that make them feel alive, like a modern take on the expressive sprites of old. And the soundtrack? It’s a seamless blend of electronic beats and rock that perfectly nails that urban cyberpunk feel. It’s the kind of audio that makes you want to explore every corner of New Eridu, even when there’s nothing to collect.

The Grind and the Gacha

Of course, no free-to-play game is without its caveats. Later commissions can start to feel repetitive, throwing the same enemy types at you until the dazzling combat loses a bit of its luster. The stamina system, a staple of the genre, can also put a damper on longer sessions, forcing you to step away just when you’re getting into the groove. And yes, the gacha elements are there—unlocking new Agents and weapons relies on that familiar pull of luck, which might turn off players who prefer a more straightforward progression. But the game is generous enough that you can enjoy the story and most content without whaling, much like HoYoverse’s other titles.

Verdict: A Must-Try for Action Fans Who Love a Good Throwback

If you’re the type who grew up on Streets of Rage or Devil May Cry but wants something with a modern, persistent world, Zenless Zone Zero is absolutely worth your time. It’s not a new release anymore, but it’s settled into a comfortable rhythm with regular updates and a community that’s still digging into the mysteries of New Eridu. The story has some genuinely interesting twists, and the Agent side stories add a layer of charm that’s rare in the gacha space. It might not convert gamers who despise free-to-play mechanics, but for everyone else, this is a stylish, punchy action RPG that feels like a love letter to the retro-futuristic dreams of the past.

Expected score: 8/10