Is Zenless Zone Zero difficult?

This is the question on everyone’s mind as HoYoverse launches its new urban fantasy action role-playing game, Zenless Zone Zero.

In Genshin Impact, the combat system is pretty straightforward, with only three buttons you need to be mindful of: the basic attack, skill attack, and ultimate.

What are Hollows in Zenless Zone Zero by ONE Esports
Credit: HoYoverse, ONE Esports
What are Hollows in Zenless Zone Zero and what’s inside them?

The same can be said for Honkai Star Rail. As a turn-based strategy game, you can take your time to plan your next move. However, this not the case for ZZZ.

Zenless Zone Zero features fast-paced, combo-driven combat akin to hack-and-slash games, demanding quick reflexes and strategic thinking.

Zenless Zone Zero W-Engine Equip Screen in ONE Esports featured image for article "I, a HoYoverse whale, asked Zenless Zone Zero’s producer to convince me on W-Engines — here’s what he said"
Credit: ONE Esports
I, a HoYoverse whale, asked Zenless Zone Zero’s producer to convince me on W-Engines — here’s what he said

Button mashing is not an option — players must carefully plan their moves to succeed.

In a press interview, Zenless Zone Zero’s producer, Zhenyu Li, discussed how they plan to assist new players in mastering the intricate fighting gameplay, ensuring a smoother learning curve for newcomers.

Is Zenless Zone Zero difficult? Here’s what the developer has to say about it

Zenless Zone Zero Anby Demara fighting a proxy
Credit: HoYoverse

Compared to other action games, you only need to press around three or five buttons to deal damage and combos in the game. Despite this simplicity, Zhenyu assured that it still retains its charm and challenging nature.

He highlighted Mario as an example, noting that it only features running and jumping. “Even with fewer buttons to press, it doesn’t mean the game is simple,” he said. “Mario is actually a hardcore game.”

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The Super Mario Bros franchise is hailed as a timeless video game classic for good reason. First launched in 1985, it swiftly became a global sensation, spawning numerous sequels, spin-offs, and, most recently, a Hollywood movie starring Chris Pratt released in 2023.

All working Zenless Zero codes and how to redeem them article hyperlink with Zenless Zone Zero key visual background
Credit: ONE Esports, HoYoverse
All working Zenless Zone Zero codes and how to redeem them

Despite its straightforward controls and premise, the game presents challenging levels that demand players to carefully study the environment and intricacies of each level.

Regarding difficulty, Zhenyu went on to explain that the Zenless Zone Zero’s fighting system was specifically designed to present new challenges progressively. New players have nothing to worry about, for the devs didn’t set the difficulty threshold to be too high in the early stages, which could cause some players to lose interest.

“We adjust the difficulty throughout the game, providing enjoyable and rewarding elements at various stages of the learning curve to keep players engaged,” he explained.

Ellen Joe and female Proxy in key visual, ONE Esports featured image for article "Zenless Zone Zero draws inspiration from a timeless fighting game and two obscure titles you’ve never heard of"
Credit: ONE Esports, HoYoverse
Zenless Zone Zero draws inspiration from a timeless fighting game and two obscure titles you’ve never heard of

Tutorials introduce unique mechanics such as special chain attacks and a bar system to build players’ confidence.

Additionally, they have implemented support for more challenging mechanics like the defense system. This is introduced through the first boss, Dead End Butcher.

The developers stress the importance of these tutorials to retain players and prevent them from feeling intimidated.

Zenless Zone Zero elements guide by ONE Esports featuring Cunning Hares faction
Credit: HoYoverse, ONE Esports
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As the game progresses with its live service system, they plan to introduce more gameplay mechanics to keep the experience fresh and present new challenges for advanced players.

So is Zenless Zone Zero difficult? It’s gameplay can be challenging at times. However, there are plenty of support and tutorials to help new players get familiar with its mechanics and enjoy the game.

Want to know more about the game? Check out our article on why there are so many furries in the game. You can also check out our ONE Esports article on where to play the game, including download links for each platform.

READ MORE: I, a HoYoverse whale, asked Zenless Zone Zero’s producer to convince me on W-Engines — here’s what he said