Introduction to New Eridu

New Eridu is the last known metropolis in the world of Zenless Zone Zero, standing as humanity’s only refuge against the dangers of the Hollows. Built on the values of hospitality, openness, and freedom, the city welcomes disaster refugees and displaced survivors, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives. The Zenless Zone Zero Secrets of New Eridu are woven into its very fabric, with its advanced technology and rich history acting as a gateway to uncover the mysteries surrounding the Hollows and the city’s survival. Players will need to dive deep into the heart of New Eridu to uncover these secrets and learn what truly keeps the city standing amidst the chaos.

The city’s prosperity relies on its ability to extract Ether from the Hollows, a valuable resource unique to New Eridu. This has led to rapid urban development, blending retro and futuristic technology—with CRT monitors, VHS tapes, and record players coexisting alongside advanced Ether-powered systems. Inspired by real-life cities such as Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Tokyo, New Eridu features bustling streets, intricate infrastructure, and a diverse population engaged in various trades, businesses, and underground activities.

Despite its modern advancements, life in New Eridu is not without risk. The city is home to gangs, Hollow Raiders, and hidden conspiracies, and residents must remain vigilant against potential disasters. Living near the Hollows demands mental resilience, as their presence carries both economic benefits and potential dangers.

Often called a “miracle city”, New Eridu stands as a testament to human survival and adaptation, thriving in a world where most civilizations have fallen to ruin.

The Nature of Hollows

Hollows are abnormal, spherical dimensions that appear suddenly and pose a severe threat to ordinary people. Considered an apocalyptic-level disaster, they distort time and space while generating Ether energy, a powerful resource that fuels much of New Eridu’s technology. However, this same energy is also highly dangerous—prolonged exposure can lead to corruption and eventual mutation.

Within Hollows, Ethereals—monstrous entities born from Ether energy—roam freely, attacking intruders and making exploration highly perilous. To mitigate the threat, trained professionals take on commissions to retrieve items, rescue individuals, and conduct research within these unstable zones. The interiors of Hollows are unpredictable, often appearing as warped versions of real-world locations, with shifting terrain and hazardous conditions, including thick, energy-saturated air that makes breathing difficult without proper equipment.

Hollows exist in multiple forms, including main Hollows and sub-Hollows, also called companion Hollows, which sometimes contain even greater concentrations of Ether energy. If the “Zenless Limit” is exceeded, it can trigger the formation of additional companion Hollows, making these zones even more unpredictable. Notably, some Hollows appear mid-air, further complicating their containment.

While Hollow disasters are devastating, New Eridu has harnessed Ether energy for technological advancements, using it to power infrastructure and develop specialized Hollow gear. Hollows can also be reduced in size or collapsed entirely by depleting their Ether reserves. However, they remain highly unstable, with some theories suggesting their presence extends beyond Earth—including possible manifestations on the moon.

To navigate Hollows, professionals rely on Carrot Maps, crucial for tracking safe routes and identifying key observation data, which can improve the success of a mission. However, even with preparation, staying inside a Hollow for extended periods significantly increases the risk of Ether corruption. The ever-changing nature of these dimensions, combined with the constant threat of Ethereal attacks, makes Hollow exploration a dangerous yet vital part of life in New Eridu.

Key Groups and Factions

New Eridu is home to numerous groups and factions, each with its own interests, alliances, and conflicts. These organizations play a crucial role in the city’s power dynamics, influencing Hollow exploration, security, and even the black market.

Proxies are professional operatives hired to lead teams into Hollows to complete commissions. They possess valuable exploration data and use illegally modified Bangboos to navigate and communicate within these dangerous zones. However, they are often distrusted by the Hollow Investigative Association (HIA), which sees them as rogue agents disrupting its control over Hollow-related operations. Despite this, proxies are essential for many residents in need of their expertise. Faithon, the main characters, are a high-profile proxy team, ranking as the top-rated group on the proxy network while also being the most wanted by the HIA.

Hollow Raiders are combat specialists who work alongside proxies, delving into Hollows with the aid of W-Engine Drives, which enhance their performance and resistance to Ether corruption. Several major factions operate in this field:

The Cunning Hairs (Gentle House) – An odd-job agency that takes on all kinds of Hollow-related commissions. Frequently ranked in the top 10 of commission ratings.

Nicole Demara – The fearless yet reckless leader, often blacklisted due to her all-or-nothing approach.

Anby Demara – A calm and efficient combatant with an air of mystery.

Billy Kidd – A laid-back cyborg and fan of the Starlight Knight show.

Neko Miyamana – A mischievous, energetic girl with exceptional agility.

Section 6 – A Hollow Special Operations unit dedicated to maintaining order in New Eridu.

Hoshimi Miyabi – The responsible leader, committed to upholding the city’s principles.

Sokaku – A food-loving operative who despises wastefulness.

Bellabog Heavy Industries – A major company specializing in heavy machinery for Hollow exploration.

Kolita Bellabog – The fierce young president, known for leading by example.

Ben Bigger – The honest, strong-willed head of finance.

Anton Ivanov – A senior staff member and energetic project manager.

Victoria Housekeeping Co. – A high-end service company with a secretive side.

Von Lycaon – A wise and loyal gentleman devoted to those he serves.

Corin Wickes – A hardworking and responsible housekeeper.

Obsidian Division – A paramilitary force under the HIA tasked with defending against Hollow threats.

Soldier 11 – A disciplined soldier known for unwavering loyalty.

The Hollow Investigative Association (HIA) is a government-funded organization that regulates Hollow activities, issues exploration licenses, and enforces strict control over related information. They actively oppose proxies and encourage citizens to report them for rewards. The Cunning Hairs operate with an expired license, putting them at odds with the HIA and public security forces.

Public Security serves as the city’s law enforcement, utilizing extreme measures, including aerial strikes, to combat criminal activity. They are currently engaged in operations against the Red Fang Gang, a violent organization led by Miguel Silver, the first civilian to be observed transforming into an Ethereal. The gang, also called the Silver Tiers, has multiple hideouts—many of which have been swallowed by Hollows. They are known to work under a mysterious higher authority.

The Vision Corporation is a major construction company vying for a position in the Tops Alliance, a powerful business coalition. Their controversial practices include cost-cutting measures that endanger civilians, particularly in the old capital metro renovation project. To enforce their interests, they employ armed mercenaries disguised as public security officers.

New Eridu’s many factions create a web of alliances, rivalries, and power struggles. While some work to maintain order, others exploit the chaos for their own gain. Whether through Hollow exploration, corporate ambition, or criminal enterprise, these groups shape the city’s ever-evolving landscape.

The Role of Proxies and the Proxy Network

Proxies are skilled professionals tasked with navigating the dangers of the Hollows, serving as guides and problem-solvers. They possess specialized knowledge of the Hollow terrain and its hazards, which allows them to help others complete difficult tasks, retrieve valuable items, and rescue individuals trapped within. Proxies are hired by the residents of New Eridu through the Proxy Network, an anonymous, underground platform where commissions for Hollow-related tasks are posted. This network plays a key role in the city’s economy, providing a service vital for daily life and resource retrieval in the face of unpredictable Hollow activity.

The Proxy Network operates outside the official regulations of the Hollow Investigative Association (HIA), which views it with suspicion and actively discourages its use. The HIA considers proxies as rivals, accusing them of undermining its control over Hollow operations. Despite this, many residents prefer the services of proxies, as they are often seen as more reliable and efficient compared to the bureaucratic HIA. Proxies can take on jobs that the government refuses, such as rescuing people trapped inside Hollows or dealing with criminal elements, even when it involves bending or breaking laws.

Proxies frequently collaborate with Hollow Raiders, who handle the combat and physical challenges inside the Hollows while the proxies focus on navigation and strategic planning. To aid them in this, proxies often use modified Bangboos—communication devices that are illegally enhanced to help with navigation, communication, and mapping inside the Hollow zones. These devices are crucial for coordinating with teams and ensuring safe passage through the dangerous environments.

The work of proxies is integral to New Eridu’s functioning, as they are often the only ones capable of retrieving vital resources from the Hollows or rescuing citizens in peril. Despite the risks, the general public places a higher level of trust in proxies than in the HIA due to the latter’s perceived incompetence and mistrust of civilians. However, being a proxy comes with its dangers. Aside from the risk of Ether corruption—a threat faced by anyone entering a Hollow—proxies also face the risk of being reported to the authorities, often for monetary rewards. The government regularly targets proxies, especially with an increasing proxy manhunt leading up to the city’s founding memorial day.

The reputation of a proxy is vital to their success. A strong reputation can lead to more commissions, while a low rating can significantly limit future opportunities. Some proxies, such as the well-known team Faithon, maintain an impeccable reputation on the Proxy Network, though they are also wanted by the authorities due to their actions. To avoid identification or retaliation, some proxies create alternate accounts on the network to complete commissions under different aliases.

The Proxy Network itself functions not only as a commission platform but also as an anonymous forum for sharing exploration data, strategies, and Hollow-related information. This network is vital for proxies to perform their duties effectively, as the exploration data helps them plan escape routes and ensure the safety of their teams during missions. The system is fluid, with new members constantly entering the network, while others may be targeted by the government or unscrupulous individuals looking to steal their identity.

Overall, proxies are a critical part of the ecosystem in New Eridu, providing an essential service while navigating both physical dangers and the ever-present threat of government scrutiny.

Technology and Resources

Ether is a mysterious energy source extracted from the Hollows, and it forms the cornerstone of New Eridu’s prosperity. The city has mastered the technology to both manage the dangers of the Hollows and extract Ether, which powers much of its infrastructure and drives technological advancements. New Eridu is the only known metropolis with the ability to extract Ether, giving it a significant advantage in a post-apocalyptic world, allowing the city to thrive while others struggle to survive.

Ether is integral to various technologies in New Eridu, particularly those used in exploration, combat, and everyday life. Among the most notable are the W-Engine Drives, which are used by Hollow Raiders to enhance performance and increase resistance to Ether corruption. These devices are often modified, and in some cases, they can change the appearance of individuals. W-Engine Drives also have capabilities such as emitting ultrasonic waves that resonate with Ether wavelengths, boosting the effectiveness of Ether-based weapons.

Bangboos are small robotic companions originally designed to assist with evacuations and Hollow-related disasters. They are equipped with real-time disaster information and provide evacuation guidance when a Hollow appears. Some Bangboos are modified by proxies to help with communication and navigation within the Hollows, and they can be equipped with data slots for additional functionality.

Hollow Gear is specialized technology powered by Ether, designed for use in exploring and combating the dangers of the Hollows. Additionally, Industrial Ether Explosives are high-purity explosives used for demolition in areas affected by Hollows, often for clearing out dangerous terrain or obstacles.

The economy of New Eridu also relies on the use of Gear Coins, a form of currency that is primarily used to unlock doors and mechanisms within the Hollows. These coins can be found within the Hollows themselves, making them essential for exploration.

Observation Data is crucial material scattered throughout the Hollows. Collecting these data sets is essential for completing commissions, as a higher rating can be achieved by gathering all the data within a given Hollow.

Carrot Map Data is another vital resource for exploring the Hollows. This data helps map out the area, providing essential information to create safe escape routes. It is used by the Hollow Investigative Association and some proxies to explore the Hollows more effectively.

HDDs (Hollow Data Drives) are used to process and store Hollow-related data. These drives can export information from flash drives and help identify access paths, guiding proxies safely through the Hollows. However, the connection to the proxy can sometimes be unstable due to the high levels of Ether present in the environment.

Flash Drives are portable storage devices used for data transfer within New Eridu. However, they are vulnerable to Ether corruption and can be damaged during exposure. Despite this, they still contain critical information, such as passwords and data files.

In the Hollows, TVs serve as a form of technology that enables the viewing of distant locations. Some areas of the Hollows are equipped with modified TV systems whose purpose is still unclear. The HDD system can guide proxies to these locations by utilizing the TV screens to navigate within the Hollows.

AI technology is also prevalent in New Eridu, assisting in a variety of functions. Different types of AIs control various aspects of the city, including the management of technology and the guidance of individuals through the Hollows. One key AI is Ferry, which has access to 80% of all smart devices in New Eridu and can calculate Carrot Map data almost instantly.

The technology to extract Ether and use it for the benefit of the city is exclusive to New Eridu, and this technological edge plays a pivotal role in the city’s survival and continued prosperity.

Daily Life and Culture in New Eridu

New Eridu is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis, a place where survivors from various backgrounds—disaster refugees, the displaced, and survivors from other settlements—can find a new home. This diversity shapes the city’s culture, combining the wonders of Ether technology with the remnants of the old world, giving it a unique aesthetic and cultural flavor. The city is a blend of retro and futuristic elements, where advanced computer systems coexist with CRT televisions and music record players, along with more modern data storage devices.

Despite the ever-present threat of Hollows, residents of New Eridu are determined to live life to the fullest. They engage in a variety of leisure activities, from visiting vintage music and video stores to enjoying ramen shops and arcades, especially on Sixth Street. The presence of Hollows has become a part of daily life, and while residents have adapted to their existence, they remain ever-vigilant for the dangers they bring.

Bangboos, small robotic companions, are a common sight in New Eridu. Originally created to assist during Hollow-related disasters, they are now valued as helpful companions, and some even serve as emotional support, with a dedicated hotline to offer assistance. The Proxy Network is another important part of life, providing residents with a platform to commission tasks related to the Hollows and serving as a hub for information.

Public Security plays a significant role in maintaining order and responding to incidents related to the Hollows. They provide evacuation guidance when Hollows appear, helping to keep the city safe from unpredictable dangers. Tensions between various factions, including monopolistic enterprises, gangs, conspirators, and fanatics, create a backdrop of intrigue and conflict within the city.

New Eridu offers a diverse range of entertainment options, from films and music to games. Residents are active participants in the cultural scene, with many sharing their opinions and reactions online. The city also boasts a variety of restaurants and food establishments, drawing people from all over the city who are willing to travel to enjoy a meal at a popular spot.

Given the dangers posed by the Hollows, residents often rely on professionals, such as proxies, to retrieve valuable items or rescue loved ones trapped within the Hollows. The city’s currency, Dennies, is used for everyday transactions, and there are plenty of opportunities to earn and spend them.

Built on the ruins of the old world, New Eridu is one of the last safe cities, protected by the Shiyu pillars that prevent the Hollows from spreading further. The city thrives thanks to the extraction of Ether from the Hollows, which powers its infrastructure and technology. However, this reliance on Ether has led to the industrialization and monetization of the Hollows, with some darker aspects emerging, including a counterfeit money ring and reports of strange occurrences, like wailing at the end of the Metro Hook Line.

As New Eridu continues to develop and undergo renovations, its infrastructure—including roads and trains—helps to connect citizens, although some older metro lines remain in disrepair. The city’s residents must be prepared for unexpected situations, both physically and mentally, as they navigate their daily lives in a world that blends the normal with the extraordinary.

The Story and Lore

The world of Zenless Zone Zero has been ravaged by the “Hollow Disaster,” an event that gave rise to Hollows, anomalous spherical dimensions that manifest unpredictably. These Hollows distort time and space, giving birth to dangerous creatures known as Ethereals. While Hollows are perilous, they also produce ether energy, a resource that powers New Eridu but is hazardous to those who come into contact with it without protection.

New Eridu, the last known metropolis, stands as humanity’s final bastion against the Hollows. Built upon the ruins of an ancient civilization, the city has developed advanced technology to deal with the Hollows, including the ability to extract ether. It is a melting pot of refugees, survivors, and displaced people, embracing values of hospitality, freedom, and openness. The city’s survival is safeguarded by the Shiyu pillars, which prevent the Hollows from expanding into the metropolis.

The narrative centers around proxies, individuals hired by Hollow Raiders to venture into the Hollows and complete various tasks. These proxies navigate the deadly dimensions, battling Ethereals and contending with the unpredictable time and space distortions. Proxies often work for different factions, including the Cunning Hairs, a group with a prominent influence.

Several groups, such as the Hollow Investigative Association, Public Security, and gangs, also play a role in managing Hollow-related issues. One of the main antagonistic groups is the Red Fang Gang, a criminal syndicate responsible for stealing a research institute’s strongbox, which sparks much of the game’s conflict. This gang is also known as The Silver Tiers.

The game explores profound themes of identity and memory, as the main characters uncover their pasts and purpose while dealing with the looming threat of the Hollows. A mysterious AI, Fairy, aids the protagonists. As a Type 3 general-purpose AI, Fairy has access to over 80% of the city’s smart devices, assisting in investigations and Hollow-related missions. Its origins and true intentions, however, remain a mystery.

The protagonists also possess the ability to communicate with an illegally modified Bangboo double, allowing them to control the machine and speak through it, adding an element of innovation to their interactions.

The story delves into complex character relationships, exploring sibling dynamics, friendships, and rivalries between different factions of proxies. Time manipulation is another central element of the plot, with the characters experiencing time loops, causing them to relive key events and decisions.

A special “Prophecy” commission introduces a character called The Prophet, who foretells that the player will be destined to destroy a powerful Ethereal. Completing this commission requires collaboration with the Seven Sins and Seven Virtues factions, and only by befriending both can players unlock the secret ending. The commission becomes available at Inter-Knot level 40 and requires a significant time investment.

The game’s story is ongoing, with new content added regularly through story chapters and agent missions. Players can progress the narrative through commissions, tasks that require them to venture into the Hollows, and main story quests, all of which are accessible through the Proxy Network or by engaging with specific residents of New Eridu.

Further lore is enriched through newsletters and magazines, which provide a deeper understanding of New Eridu’s darker sides and the challenges its citizens face. The game also draws heavy inspiration from films, particularly through the character Anby, who often references iconic movie lines.

Gameplay and Tips

Combat in Zenless Zone Zero is action-based, where players control characters in real-time, engaging in dynamic battles using a combination of normal attacks, special skills, and dodges. Players can switch between characters during combat to perform combo attacks, taking advantage of different abilities. The combat system incorporates assist attacks, allowing characters to follow up on attacks from teammates, and chain attacks that are triggered by heavy hits, providing more freedom and creativity in battle.

As attacks build up energy, players can use it to unleash powerful special attacks. Additionally, players need to be mindful of the environment during combat—some enemies use ranged attacks or can only be damaged in certain areas. Watch for on-screen prompts that will often indicate when to use special moves or perform follow-up attacks. The game also features a damage type system, where using the correct type against an enemy can give players a significant advantage. You can also build a team that focuses on a specific damage type, such as fire. Some W-Engines enhance weapon performance, with some weapons able to resonate with others using ultrasonic waves.

In exploration, players traverse the city of New Eridu and the mysterious Hollows. Missions often require using the proxy system, where players must explore Hollows to complete specific objectives. The game offers multiple paths during missions, creating opportunities to uncover hidden areas and secrets. The environment can also be used to gain advantages during combat, such as using destructible objects as cover. Some areas require specific items to progress, like bombs to destroy walls, or Gear Coins to open locked doors. Be mindful of more dangerous areas in the Hollows, and consider your level and equipment before venturing deeper.

Character progression is vital to success in the game. Players can level up their characters to improve stats such as attack, defense, and support. Choosing the best items and equipment for each character is essential, and each character has unique abilities that should be factored into team composition. Certain characters can be “awakened” when duplicates are obtained, boosting their power. W-Engines can further enhance character stats, adding additional layers to character customization.

Resources play a key role in progression. Gear Coins are crucial for upgrading characters, buying items, and advancing in the game. These can be found as loot drops from defeated enemies or in chests throughout the game. It’s important to prioritize boosts to attack over health, as attack boosts have a more significant impact on overall effectiveness. Additionally, Strength is an essential stat that should be upgraded to at least level 25. Be sure to collect health increases as well to improve overall survivability. Some items are only available through specific vendors, and certain items are time-limited, so make sure to collect them before they disappear.

The game also features a battle pass, called the New Eridu City Fund, which grants access to exclusive rewards. Opting for the growth plan is more cost-effective than the premium plan, and players can obtain useful W-Engines through the battle pass if they don’t have a character’s signature weapon.

Missions and commissions are central to the gameplay loop. Players progress through both story missions and optional commissions. Commissions often require players to venture into the Hollows to complete objectives, and they can range from combat to exploration. Some commissions have a recommended level, ensuring players are prepared for the challenge. Time-sensitive commissions add an additional layer of challenge, requiring players to manage their time effectively. A hidden commission called “The Prophecy” can be unlocked by completing specific tasks.

General tips for success include thoroughly exploring New Eridu to uncover new areas, vendors, and side quests. Make use of the scratch card system for free rewards, and stay engaged with the game’s story and characters, which provide a rich gameplay experience. Be prepared for unexpected situations, as the game’s dynamic nature often requires players to adapt their strategies. Take time to rest and recover before tackling more challenging missions, and regularly check your in-game mail for rewards and updates. Some game modes become available only after progressing through certain parts of the story, so keep an eye out for new content as you play. Don’t forget to claim your daily login rewards to keep your progress moving forward.