Different Shiyu Defense Nodes

Shiyu Defense is structured around multiple node types, each offering a distinct gameplay experience and tailored challenges in Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide. Understanding how each node functions is essential for optimizing your strategy and maximizing the rewards you can earn.

Stable Nodes

Stable Nodes serve as introductory stages to Shiyu Defense. These nodes unlock progressively as you advance and remain permanently accessible once cleared. They are designed to be completed only once, acting as milestone checks to ensure you grasp the basic mechanics of the mode. While they do not offer repeatable rewards, they help prepare you for the more demanding nodes ahead.

Ambush Nodes

Ambush Nodes were special limited-time challenge stages that typically featured five rounds focusing on survival. Similar to Disputed Nodes, the fewer Agents defeated in battle, the better your rewards. Ambush Nodes provided one-time rewards and appeared temporarily within the game. They were introduced in Version 1.2 and later removed inVersion 1.3. As of Version 1.6, Ambush Nodes are not currently active.

Critical Nodes

Critical Nodes are the core of Shiyu Defense’s ongoing challenge system. These nodes rotate biweekly, refreshing every other Friday with new enemy configurations and objectives. Each cycle generally includes seven stages, with difficulty scaling as you progress. Unlike Disputed Nodes, Critical Nodes test your efficiency in eliminating enemies under a strict time limit. Achieving S-Rank clears across all stages in a cycle rewards up to 720 Polychromes. Additionally, if you’ve previously cleared a Critical Node stage in an earlier cycle, you may be eligible to skip some of the lower-tier stages in future rotations, streamlining your progression and allowing you to focus on the higher-difficulty content.

Disputed Nodes

Disputed Nodes also unlock gradually and become permanently available after being unlocked. Unlike Stable Nodes, Disputed Nodes place a greater emphasis on survival rather than speed. These stages do not have a time limit; instead, your performance grade hinges on keeping your Agents alive throughout the battle. To secure an S-Rank, no Agents can be knocked out during combat. Completing all Disputed Node stages with S-Rank evaluations can yield a total of up to 2,200 Polychromes, making them a worthwhile goal for players seeking valuable currency.

Each node type within Shiyu Defense offers a unique spin on combat, requiring different team builds, strategies, and gameplay approaches. Mastery of all node types not only proves your skill as a Proxy but also ensures you’re making the most of the valuable rewards available in this mode.

Introduction

Shiyu Defense in Zenless Zone Zero is a high-level endgame mode where Proxies protect Ether-filled Shiyu structures from waves of enemies in Hollow Zero. Success depends on speed, objectives met, and tactical team play. Version 1.6 introduces the Critical Node—an intense challenge requiring optimal builds, smart rotations, and expert combat execution.

Unlocking Shiyu Defense

Accessing Shiyu Defense requires progressing to a specific point in the game, ensuring that only well-prepared Proxies can enter this high-stakes combat mode. To unlock Shiyu Defense, you must first reach Inter-Knot Level 20, a milestone that indicates a solid level of experience and engagement with core gameplay systems. Upon reaching this level, the Inter-Knot Reputation Rank-Up Mission will become available. Completing this mission is essential, as it serves as the gateway to unlocking Shiyu Defense.

Once the mission is cleared, the mode becomes accessible through the Video Store interface in the game. From there, you can initiate Shiyu Defense runs, tackle increasingly difficult combat scenarios, and begin earning exclusive rewards tied to your performance. This progression system ensures that players have a foundational understanding of their Agents, team composition, and combat mechanics before stepping into one of the game’s most demanding content offerings.

Critical Node Version 1.6 Specifics

The Critical Node in Version 1.6 of Shiyu Defense delivers a high-stakes, rotating challenge that pushes players to optimize team composition, manage time pressure, and adapt to evolving combat mechanics. This version introduces a specific set of Frontier Effects and stage mechanics that define both the strategic depth and the potential rewards of this endgame content.

Reset Schedule: The Critical Node operates on a fixed bi-weekly reset cycle, updating every other Friday. This rotation system keeps the content fresh and encourages players to regularly engage with the latest challenges. For Version 1.6, one of the scheduled reset dates is April 25, 2025, marking a new opportunity to clear stages, earn rewards, and compete for leaderboard placements.

Frontier Effects – Oppressive Shackles: The Frontier Effects active during this rotation significantly influence the effectiveness of various combat strategies. The “Oppressive Shackles” set boosts specific damage types and modifies enemy behavior after being stunned. During this rotation:

Aftershock and EX Special Attack damage are increased by 25%, encouraging aggressive playstyles that capitalize on burst potential.

Daze inflicted on enemies is increased by 15%, making it easier to stagger enemies and control the battlefield.

Once an enemy is Stunned, their Stun recovery speed is reduced by 15%, giving players more time to follow up with heavy damage.

While enemies are Stunned, Electric and Ether damage dealt to them is increased by a massive 40%, making these attributes particularly powerful throughout the rotation.

Stage Mechanics – Critical Node 1 to 7: Each of the seven stages presents its own tactical considerations, including specific time-based grading, recommended elements, and enemy compositions.

Time Limits for Grades: Each stage has a countdown timer, with performance graded by how much time remains upon clearing it. For example, an S-Rank may require finishing with 300+ seconds left, while some stages demand 360+ seconds for a top-tier score. Lesser grades like A and B are awarded at lower thresholds, with B-Rank typically granted upon full enemy defeat regardless of time.

Recommended Attributes: To aid in your success, the game highlights preferred damage types based on the stage’s enemy vulnerabilities. In Version 1.6, Electric and Ether are consistently favored due to the Frontier Effects, though other attributes like Fire, Ice, and Physical also appear depending on the enemy types.

Enemy Weaknesses and Resistances: Each stage includes a preview of the enemies’ elemental weaknesses and resistances. Adapting your squad to target these vulnerabilities is critical—bringing Agents with resisted damage types will slow your run and lower your grade. Strategic team crafting allows you to maximize damage output and exploit each encounter.

Example – Critical Node 6 (Shiyu Defense Stage 16): This stage demonstrates the split-team structure often found in later stages. The first half of the stage typically emphasizes Electric damage, with enemies like Private Jaegers and Demolition Jaegers—both highly susceptible to Electric attacks. The second half transitions to Fire as the preferred attribute, featuring enemies such as Fossors, Sordidus, and a boss-type enemy like Greta – Energized, who is weak to Fire but resists Physical damage. Deploying one team focused on Electric and another on Fire allows for smooth clears and higher grades.

The Version 1.6 Critical Node is a dynamic challenge that rewards planning, adaptability, and mastery of your roster. With powerful Frontier Effects in play and carefully crafted stage mechanics, it offers a rewarding opportunity for veteran Proxies to test their limits and earn valuable Polychrome with each reset cycle.

Gameplay Tips and Strategies

To succeed in Shiyu Defense—especially in the high-intensity Critical Nodes—a well-rounded strategy encompassing team composition, combat execution, and time management is essential. This endgame mode challenges your understanding of the game’s mechanics, your roster depth, and your adaptability to stage-specific demands.

Team Building:
Your first step toward success lies in crafting teams that align with the stage’s recommended attributes. Always aim to bring Agents whose primary damage type matches the stage’s listed weaknesses. This maximizes your efficiency in combat and shortens clear times, which is especially critical when chasing S-Rank thresholds. At the same time, be mindful of enemy resistances—deploying Agents who deal resisted damage will greatly reduce your combat effectiveness and could cost you a rank.

In Version 1.6, the active Frontier Effects give a substantial edge to teams built around Electric and Ether damage, especially those capable of applying Stun. The bonus damage from these attributes after an enemy is Stunned can greatly accelerate stage clears. As such, Agents with consistent Daze or Stun mechanics—such as Koleda, Lycaon, Anby, and Trigger—are particularly effective.

Beginning with Stable Node: Seventh Frontier and continuing into the Critical Nodes, each stage requires two unique teams—one for each half of the encounter. Crucially, you cannot use the same Agent or Bangboo in both teams, so you’ll need a robust lineup of fully developed Agents and support units. Investing in a diverse roster is not only helpful but mandatory for long-term success.

Effective teams should be built with synergy in mind. A typical setup includes:

A main DPS who deals sustained or burst damage in the recommended attribute.

A sub-DPS or control unit who can apply crowd control like Daze or Stun, enabling greater damage potential and safety.

A support character to enhance your team’s durability or damage output. For example, Astra Yao provides versatile buffs, Soukaku offers Ice-based AoE support, and Ben contributes reliable shielding that helps mitigate incoming damage.

Combat Strategies:
Combat success in Shiyu Defense hinges on understanding enemy behavior and leveraging your team’s tools effectively. A smart tactic is to prioritize ranged enemies first, like Demolition Jaegers or Sordidus. Doing so often causes melee enemies to close in, allowing you to group them for AoE damage and efficient takedowns.

Recognizing and reacting to enemy attack patterns is vital. Many boss units, such as Specialized Assault Bombers, telegraph their powerful lunges and slam attacks. Dodging or using Perfect Assists at the right moment can completely avoid damage and create counterattack openings.

Chain Attacks are another core mechanic that can turn the tide of battle. Use them wisely—they not only deal significant burst damage but can also extend Stun windows or trigger useful effects based on your Bangboo and Agent selection. In Version 1.6, triggering Stun at the right time and following up with Electric or Ether-heavy combos can quickly melt through high-HP targets.

Defensive Assists also play a key role. These actions only consume one Assist bar and deal solid Daze damage, making them especially useful against tougher enemies and bosses. Learning to time Defensive Assists properly can help you maintain control of the fight while setting up for powerful finishers.

Time Management:
Each Critical Node stage is timed, with your performance graded based on how much time remains when you clear it. Most stages require more than 300 seconds remaining for an S-Rank, though some may demand even tighter clears. Keep this in mind as you play—maximize uptime on damage, avoid unnecessary repositioning, and stay aggressive when you see an opportunity.

Clearing each stage quickly and cleanly not only earns you better ranks but also unlocks the full Polychrome rewards available per cycle. With the right preparation and execution, Shiyu Defense becomes not just a test of strength, but a showcase of your mastery as a Proxy.

Rewards for Clearing Nodes

Stable Node RewardsPolychrome x3,000
Denny x450,000
W-Engine Chip x14
Audio Booster Master Copy x20
Noise Reduction Master Copy x50

You can earn up to 3,000 Polychromes by completing all Stable Node Frontiers and succeeding on every objective.

Disputed Node RewardsPolychrome x1,600
Denny x360,000
W-Engine Chip x14
Noise Reduction Master Copy x70

You can earn up to 1,600 Polychromes by completing all Disputed Node Frontiers and succeeding on every objective.

Ambush Node RewardsPolychrome x600
Denny x360,000
W-Engine Chip x14
Noise Reduction Master Copy x30

You can earn up to 600 Polychromes by completing all Ambush Node Frontiers and succeeding on every objective.

Critical Node RewardsPolychrome x720
Denny x315,000
W-Engine Chip x4
Noise Reduction Master Copy x20

You can earn up to 720 Polychromes by completing all Critical Node Frontiers and succeeding on every objective. Critical Node gets refreshed on a regular basis, so you can recollect these rewards after it refreshes.

General Tips for Success in Shiyu Defense

When it comes to tackling Version 1.6’s Critical Node, there are some general tips that can really boost your performance in Shiyu Defense. Good preparation, solid team building, and smart resource management go a long way in clearing those tough stages and earning top-tier rewards.

First things first, make sure your Agents are leveled up. A solid benchmark for the more challenging stages in Critical Nodes is having your Inter-Knot Level at 50 or higher and your main Agents around Level 60. Focus on leveling up your primary DPS units—they’re the ones that really boost your damage output. Support characters can do well at slightly lower levels, but don’t forget to upgrade their core abilities for better survivability.

Gear is also super important. Equip your characters with Drive Discs and W-Engines that suit their roles. Even if your team doesn’t match the recommended elemental attributes for a stage, you can still do well by optimizing your team’s strengths. Make sure your gear is enhancing what your Agents do best—whether that’s maximizing damage or improving support and control.

Understanding the Frontier Effects active during a Critical Node rotation is key. These effects can change the combat flow by boosting certain damage types or mechanics. Adjust your team accordingly to take full advantage of those temporary buffs. For example, bring in Stun-focused Agents when those effects are active to really capitalize on them.

Defense characters can be a lifesaver, especially in tougher battles. Characters like Ben, with his shield and defensive abilities, can help your team survive high-damage phases and protect your more fragile Agents during tight moments. Don’t underestimate the power of survivability.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different team setups and playstyles to see what works best with your roster. There’s no one-size-fits-all setup—flexibility is key. Some players prefer aggressive burst teams, while others go for sustain-focused or control-heavy teams. Get to know how your characters work together, time your assists well, and learn enemy behaviors to improve your execution.

With better team builds, a strong grasp of combat mechanics, and taking full advantage of game systems like Frontier Effects, you’ll see steady improvement in Shiyu Defense. With patience and a bit of strategy, clearing even the toughest Critical Node stages will become a rewarding challenge.

F.A.Q

How do I increase my chances of success in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide?

To improve your chances in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide, ensure that your Agents are leveled up, with a special focus on your main DPS characters. Equip them with well-matched gear and Drive Discs. Study the Frontier Effects active during each stage and adjust your team’s strategy accordingly. Proper timing of abilities and rotations is also key.

Can I solo the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide stages?

While it is possible to attempt solo runs in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide, these stages are designed to challenge even well-prepared teams. Team synergy is vital for success, so it’s often better to rely on a balanced team rather than soloing. Some stages, especially in Critical Nodes, are nearly impossible to complete alone.

How can I improve my resource management in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide?

Resource management is critical in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide. Focus on efficiently using your energy and items during combat, and make sure you have enough resources like Z-Merits to upgrade Agents and gear. Avoid wasting valuable items on early stages—save them for higher-difficulty content or Critical Nodes where they can have the most impact.

How do I effectively use Stun mechanics in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide?

Stun mechanics are incredibly useful in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide, especially when dealing with large waves of enemies. To maximize the effectiveness of Stun, use characters with abilities that focus on stunning or controlling enemies. When Frontier Effects enhance stun, build your team around these abilities to control the flow of battle and reduce incoming damage.

How do I deal with enemies that have high defense in the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide?

In the Zenless Zone Zero Shiyu Defense Guide, dealing with high-defense enemies requires using characters or abilities that can bypass or reduce their defense. Focus on deploying Agents with armor-piercing or debuffing capabilities. Additionally, certain Frontier Effects can enhance your damage against high-defense enemies, so adapt your team to exploit these opportunities.