Overview of the “Virtual Revenge” Special Episode

“Virtual Revenge” in Zenless Zone Zero follows Section 6 as they test a new VR system from the Hollow Investigation Agency—until an unknown force hijacks it, trapping them inside. You’ll play as Tsukishiro Yanagi, navigating the digital chaos to uncover the truth. For more details, check out our Zenless Zone Zero Virtual Revenge Guide.

Significance

“Virtual Revenge” provides deeper insight into Section 6’s operations, showcasing characters such as Yanagi, Miyabi, Asaba Harumasa, and Soukaku. The episode expands on the lore of Zenless Zone Zero, offering players a closer look at the Hollow Affairs and Neutralization Department (H.A.N.D.) and the dangers of emerging technology. It also serves as a way for players to get familiar with playing as Yanagi, whose skills and tactical decisions are central to the story.

Availability

The “Virtual Revenge” special episode is permanently available following the Version 1.3 update, which was released on November 27, 2024.

Requirements

To access this special episode, players must meet the following conditions:

Complete the Main Story Chapter 4 mission, “Leisurely Lull: Unexpected New Customer.”

Players can experience the content early through the “Advance Screening” function.

Players who reached Inter-Knot Level 4 before November 6, 2024, were eligible for update compensation rewards.

Certain related events have additional level requirements:

Inter-Knot Level 15 is required for the “Help Kai” event.

Inter-Knot Level 20 is required for “The Champion” event.

Inter-Knot Level 36 and completion of Main Story Chapter 3, “The Midnight Pursuit,” are required to unlock the “Simulated Battle Trial.”

Estimated Clear Time

The estimated time to complete the “Virtual Revenge” special episode is approximately one hour, though additional content and challenges may extend playtime.

This introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the “Virtual Revenge” special episode, ensuring players understand its significance, requirements, and gameplay structure.

Story and Characters

The Virtual Revenge special episode in Zenless Zone Zero follows Hollow Special Operations (H.S.O.) Section 6 as they participate in a test of a new virtual reality training system. What starts as a routine evaluation quickly turns into a life-threatening situation when an unknown entity takes control of the system, trapping the team inside. As they navigate the virtual world, they must overcome dangerous challenges, uncover the identity of their adversary, and find a way to escape before their minds and data are compromised.

Focus on H.S.O. Section 6

H.S.O. Section 6 is an elite unit within the Hollow Affairs and Neutralization Department (H.A.N.D.), specializing in Hollow-related disasters. Known for their exceptional combat skills, they are widely respected by the public. The episode highlights their teamwork, leadership, and individual abilities as they face an unexpected crisis inside the VR simulation.

Key Characters


YanagiThe deputy chief and intelligence officer of Section 6. Reliable and pragmatic, she serves as the story’s primary perspective. Her analytical mind and ability to adapt quickly play a crucial role in the team’s escape.
Hoshimi MiyabiThe founder and leader of Section 6, also known as the “Void Hunter.” She is highly skilled in combat and commands the utmost trust from her team. Despite her serious nature, her adorable appearance is often noted.
Asaba HarumasaA laid-back executive officer and a skilled archer. He has a tendency to avoid briefings, struggles with poor health, and is beloved by his fans.
SoukakuAnother executive officer known for her enthusiastic and expressive personality. She has a passion for painting and often adds a unique perspective to the team’s dynamic.

The VR System

Developed by the Hollow Investigation Agency (H.I.A.), the virtual reality system is designed to enhance training by synchronizing deeply with the user’s sensory nerves. Initially intended for Public Security, the Defense Force, and other investigators, it offers an immersive environment where combat simulations feel highly realistic. However, the test quickly goes wrong when an external force hijacks the system.

Plot Summary

During their trial of the VR system, Section 6 becomes trapped inside a simulated world manipulated by an unknown adversary. Forced to fight against test monsters and hostile programs, they realize the enemy is attempting to exploit their combat data. To escape, they must defeat all remaining virtual threats while uncovering the true nature of their attacker. Yanagi’s ability to decipher the system’s technical manual proves crucial in navigating the crisis, while a missing authentication badge becomes the final key to logging out. Upon their return to reality, Section 6 takes part in the takedown of the criminal syndicate “NFace,” which was behind the VR hijacking.

Narrative Style

The episode uses Immersive Storytelling Mode, placing the player primarily in Yanagi’s perspective. Cutscenes, animations, and cinematics enhance the experience, making the unfolding mystery feel dynamic and engaging.

This special episode offers a deeper look into Section 6’s operations, highlighting their expertise, teamwork, and the risks involved in Hollow-related investigations.

General Combat Strategies

Prioritize high-threat enemies, especially those about to explode.

Dodge effectively to avoid major damage and trigger counterattacks.

Execute perfect dodges and assists to gain an edge in battle.

Use Quick Assists to smoothly switch characters and maintain offensive pressure.

Chain attacks for maximum damage output.

Use Heavy Attacks to stagger enemies and open them up for follow-up damage.

Unleash Ultimate abilities strategically to clear waves or deal massive boss damage.

Focus on stunning enemies, as their stun damage multiplier increases over time.

Walkthrough

Initial Steps

Begin the “Virtual Revenge” special episode by talking to Belle or Wise at the Video Store. This will initiate Immersive Storytelling mode, shifting the perspective to Tsukishiro Yanagi for the duration of the episode. Follow the quest markers to travel from HAND Headquarters to the Hollow Investigation Agency (HIA) to progress the story.

HIA and Lumina Square

Upon reaching HIA Headquarters, the “False Commitment” quest begins. This battle has a fixed team composition, featuring Yanagi as the main Attacker, Soukaku as the Supporter, and a new Bangboo companion. Yanagi serves as the primary damage dealer, so utilize her abilities effectively to clear enemies.

After the battle, exit HIA Headquarters and investigate Lumina Square. Engage in three separate interactions with Hollow 6 Division team members to gather information. Once all interactions are completed, check the VR machine at the back of HIA to advance the quest.

Investigating the VR Machine

Interacting with the VR device at HIA triggers two commissions:

“Beyond One’s Control” – A battle-focused commission with a fixed team, emphasizing Yanagi as the primary damage dealer. The fight consists of multiple small enemies.

“Prepared Prison” – Another combat-based commission featuring a fixed team with Yanagi as the main DPS, requiring players to defeat waves of enemies.

Once both commissions are cleared, the Immersive Storytelling mode ends, temporarily returning control to the main character. Speak with Belle or Wise to progress further.

Final Steps

Re-enter Immersive Storytelling mode for the last commission, “Pursuing the Real Culprit.” This mission features a solo battle as Yanagi against the final boss. The boss has an Electric Weakness, allowing Yanagi to apply Shock effects for increased damage. Utilize her abilities strategically to exploit this weakness and secure victory.

Post-Walkthrough Notes

Throughout the entire “Virtual Revenge” special episode, Yanagi remains the main playable character in all combat commissions.

This episode provides an opportunity to learn Yanagi’s combat mechanics and gain a deeper understanding of her playstyle.

Completing the “Virtual Revenge” special episode unlocks new content, including the HAND Headquarters Map and Hollow 6 Section Partner Files (Trust Level Events).

This walkthrough provides a structured guide to completing the “Virtual Revenge” special episode, ensuring smooth progression through each stage of the mission.

Combat Tips

Understanding the VR System

The “Virtual Revenge” special episode takes place within a new VR system, simulating realistic sensory experiences. Characters react as if the events are truly happening. The core rule states that the test will end automatically once all test monsters are defeated. The enemy has partial control over the VR system, allowing them to alter data, modify terrain, and create unexpected challenges.

Utilizing Tsukishiro Yanagi

Tsukishiro Yanagi is the main playable character throughout the “Virtual Revenge” quest commissions. As an Electric Anomaly Agent, she excels at applying Shock effects and quickly triggering Polarity Disorder, maximizing Anomaly damage. She has a stance-switching mechanic, providing combat buffs that enhance both offense and defense. Her swordsmanship is tailored for fast-paced attacks and nimble dodges, making her highly effective in VR battles. Yanagi belongs to the Void Hunter faction, specializing in rapid strikes and counterattacks.

Lighter’s Combat Style

Lighter is a Stun-Fire Agent who specializes in close-range melee combat. His fighting style revolves around Morale, a resource that enhances his fifth basic attack, granting him increased Impact to quickly stun enemies. His attacks reduce Fire and Ice Resistance on targets, extending stun duration and boosting teammates’ Fire and Ice damage. He excels in prolonged battles, recovering Morale when teammates engage opponents. His Quick Assist delivers a rapid barrage of punches while dodging incoming attacks, making him a strong initiator. His Ultimate slams the ground, dealing massive Stun damage and Daze to surrounding enemies.

Team Composition

In “Virtual Revenge,” team composition is often fixed, with Yanagi as the primary damage dealer. During Lighter’s TV Schedule event, players can select a support character to provide additional buffs. When forming a team, consider synergizing characters who benefit from Lighter’s passive effects, especially those with Attack Specialty or Sons of Calydon synergy.

Enemy Mechanics

Enemies in the VR system are under external control, making them unpredictable. Some enemies are tampered with, causing them to explode upon defeat—these enemies are marked in red. The enemy AI can alter the battlefield, creating environmental hazards or forcing players into difficult combat scenarios. Be cautious of attacks that inflict Disorder, disrupting normal combat mechanics.

Safe Mode

Activating Safe Mode prevents hacking, tampering, and pain feedback, allowing the user to move freely without external control. This feature provides a tactical advantage in difficult battles.

Boss Battles

The “Virtual Revenge” episode concludes with a final solo boss fight as Yanagi. The boss is weak to Electric damage, making Yanagi’s kit highly effective. Utilize Polarity Disorder and stance-switching to maximize damage while dodging high-impact attacks.

Additional Notes

Be aware of environmental changes, as the enemy can manipulate terrain.

Use surroundings strategically to evade attacks and reposition.

The battle ends automatically once all enemies are defeated.

These combat strategies will help players navigate “Virtual Revenge” effectively, leveraging new mechanics and character strengths for a smooth, successful experience.

F.A.Q

What new gameplay modes are available in the Zenless Zone Zero Virtual Revenge Guide?

Two major modes are introduced:​
The Mystery of Arpeggio Fault – A roguelike mode with five procedurally generated chapters, offering unique challenges and rewards.
Simulated Battle Trial – An endless tower-style challenge to test combat skills against increasingly difficult opponents. ​

What are the new Bangboos introduced in the Zenless Zone Zero Virtual Revenge Guide?

Version 1.3 introduces two new A-Rank Bangboos: Baddieboo and Knightboo. Baddieboo is obtainable through the “An Outstanding Partner” channel, while Knightboo is earned by completing the “Mystery of Arpeggio Fault” event. Both offer unique combat support abilities and can enhance your battle effectiveness when paired with compatible agents. They also add more diversity and depth to team-building strategies.

How do I unlock Lighter’s Agent Story in the Zenless Zone Zero Virtual Revenge Guide?

Lighter’s Agent Story, “The Unsung Champion,” becomes permanently available after November 27, 2024. To unlock it, you must complete the Main Story chapter “Leisurely Lull: Unexpected New Customer,” which becomes accessible after finishing Chapter 4. This story provides deeper lore about Lighter’s background and motivations, and also rewards players with Polychromes and special upgrade materials for completing its missions.

What is the “Moonlight Traces” event in the Zenless Zone Zero Virtual Revenge Guide?

“Moonlight Traces” is a special event tied to Tsukishiro Yanagi’s debut. Running through December 16, 2024, it features unique challenges and story content focused on Yanagi. Players must be Inter-Knot Level 20 or higher to participate. Completing the event rewards players with materials and lore insights, making it a key part of understanding Yanagi’s character and unlocking her full potential in battle.

What system improvements are included in the Zenless Zone Zero Virtual Revenge Guide?

Version 1.3 brings significant quality-of-life changes. “Ridu Weekly” replaces the old task system with more flexible objectives. Players can now display custom Titles and Badges, and craft higher-tier materials from lower ones. Drive Disc crafting has also been improved. These updates streamline gameplay and reward long-term engagement, making the overall experience smoother and more rewarding for both new and returning players.