Zenless Zone Zero Marks “First Anniversary” with Major Version 2.0 Update and Xbox Series Console Launch

So, today’s kinda huge if you’re in New Eridu. Zenless Zone Zero’s throwing this massive bash for its first anniversary. They’re rolling out Version 2.0, got an Xbox port coming — finally! — and there’s this log-in event where you can snag a free S-Rank Agent and a W-Engine from the good ol’ gacha, plus 1,600 Polychrome. That’s enough for like, 10 pulls. Oh, and exclusive stuff like a profile title and avatar. Because, you know, showing off at virtual parties is a thing now.

Wait, hang on — is it really a year already? Well, not quite. Technically, ZZZ’s birthday isn’t until next month. July 4, 2024, to be exact. But hey, HoYo games love their six-week schedules. Anniversaries kind of float around wherever they like within those periods. I guess it makes sure everyone gets a good month to hoard all the goodies. Clever, right?

Now, where was I? Oh, yeah. Zenless Zone Zero — in case you missed it, it’s a crazy mix of urban sci-fi fantasy. You follow Belle and Wise, who own this retro video store. But here’s the kicker: it’s just a cover-up for their gig guiding “Agents” through these sketchy areas called “Hollows.” Think big disaster zones popping up around New Eridu. It’s different ’cause normally you’d expect to play as the main characters, but nope. You’re controlling the Agents in combat.

Now with Version 2.0, they’re diving into Season 2. More mysteries, more characters. For instance, meet Yixuan and Pan Yinhu! Yixuan’s S-Rank, Pan’s A-Rank, and they’re part of Yunkui Summit. Eleven factions now. It sounds epic already. Yixuan’s also bringing this new Rupture Agent role. It’s like a new combat twist – first in forever.

Oh, and guess what? ZZZ’s finally jumping onto Xbox Series consoles and Xbox Cloud Gaming. It started on PC, PS5, and mobiles last year. But Xbox players? Your wait’s over!

The game launch happens while HoYoverse is kinda in hot water. There’s this labor clash with voice actors from ZZZ, Genshin Impact, and Honkai: Star Rail. Folks are getting replaced left and right. The actors say it’s related to their strike for rights against AI using their voices as training fodder. HoYoverse isn’t saying much, just blaming it on “scheduling issues.” Classic corporate, right?

Okay, I think that’s everything. Time to dive back into the chaos.