Zenless Zone Zero: A Fresh Take on Gacha with Producer Zhenyu Li

Recently, at a global launch event held in Singapore, HoYoVerse offered a rare opportunity to delve into the mind of Zhenyu Li, the producer behind ZZZ. This interview shed light on the game’s development process, the team’s inspirations, and their approach to player feedback.

Quality First: HoYoVerse’s Rigorous Development Process

One of the most interesting aspects of the interview was Li’s revelation about HoYoVerse’s strict game assessment system. Unlike some developers who might greenlight projects based solely on potential market appeal, HoYoVerse prioritizes quality above all else. Every game concept, even in its prototype stage, undergoes a rigorous evaluation process. If a project doesn’t meet their high standards, it gets scrapped. This stringent approach ensures that only the most polished and engaging games reach the players, a philosophy that’s evident in the success of titles like Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail.

Open Communication: Embracing Fan Feedback

Li also acknowledged the passionate, and sometimes intense, nature of the HoYoVerse fanbase. He reassured players that the ZZZ development team is committed to fostering open communication and actively listening to feedback. Whether it’s suggestions for balancing or requests for new content, the team is dedicated to analyzing player input and implementing it through future updates. This commitment to ongoing improvement suggests that ZZZ will continue to evolve and adapt based on the desires of its player community.

A World Beyond the Wasteland: Redefining Post-Apocalypse

One of the most striking aspects of ZZZ is its post-apocalyptic setting. However, unlike many games in this genre that depict barren wastelands, ZZZ offers a refreshing twist. Li explained that the team deliberately chose to create a vibrant and colorful city, a testament to humanity’s enduring spirit even in the face of destruction. This unique approach to world-building adds depth and intrigue to the ZZZ universe, making it a world players will be eager to explore.

Inspired by the Masters: Vanillaware’s Influence

During the interview, Li also revealed some of the inspirations behind ZZZ’s development. He expressed his admiration for Vanillaware games like Odin’s Sphere and Muramasa: The Demon Blade. These titles, known for their meticulous attention to detail and stunning visuals, clearly influenced ZZZ’s aesthetic. Players can expect to find richly detailed environments and character designs that bring the world of New Eridu to life.

Breaking the Mold: A Different Approach to Team Building

While ZZZ shares the gacha mechanic with other HoYoVerse titles, Li emphasized that the team-building system offers a distinct experience. He encouraged players to approach ZZZ with an open mind, as maximizing damage output might not always be the optimal strategy. Instead, the focus lies on building a team around your favorite characters and preferred playstyle. This approach allows for greater player expression and experimentation, creating a more personal and engaging combat experience.

The Producer’s Burden: Balancing Creativity and Team Dynamics

Li also discussed the challenges he faces as the game’s producer. While he thoroughly enjoys the creative aspects of his role, such as overseeing art design, combat mechanics, and character development, managing team dynamics can be a complex task. Li admitted that mediating disagreements and arguments among team members is one of the most difficult aspects of his job. However, his dedication to fostering a collaborative environment ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, ultimately leading to a richer and more well-rounded game.

A Look Ahead: A Promising Future for Zenless Zone Zero

The interview with Zhenyu Li offered a fascinating glimpse into the development of Zenless Zone Zero. From its commitment to quality and player feedback to its unique world-building and innovative gameplay approach, ZZZ appears poised to become a major player in the gacha game market. With its focus on player agency and a vibrant post-apocalyptic setting, ZZZ promises a fresh and exciting experience for gamers worldwide.