Image Credit: HoyoVerse

The 2.1 Special Program for Zenless Zone Zero just dropped yesterday, and it was packed. From two brand new S rank agents to limited time events, seasonal outfits, and massive quality of life improvements, this version is looking like a major upgrade. If you missed the stream, here is the full breakdown of what is coming.

Livestream Time and Gift Details

The livestream aired on July 4, 2025, at 6:30 AM Central Time and featured a huge login reward for all players.

• Just for logging in during 2.1, you will get 1600 free Polychromes
• This login bonus is available from July 4 to September 3
• You can claim it from your mailbox once the update goes live

This is essentially a ten pull just for showing up. Do not miss it.

2.1 Banners and Characters

Version 2.1 is split into two phases, each featuring new and returning characters.

Phase One (Begins July 16)

• Ukinami Yuzuha (S rank Physical Support)
• Hoshimi Miyabi (S rank rerun)
• Four star rate ups: Piper and Billy

Phase Two

• Alice Thymefield (S rank Physical Anomaly)
• Tsukishiro Yanagi (S rank rerun)
• Four star rate ups: Seth and Soukaku

Both new characters are highly anticipated and bring unique mechanics. Yuzuha is all about battlefield control, while Alice delivers explosive anomaly damage and benefits from being paired with follow up attackers.

New W Engines and Bangboo

Each new agent is arriving with their signature W Engine.

• Metanukimorphosis is Yuzuha’s personal W Engine
• Practiced Perfection is Alice’s signature gear

We are also getting a brand new Bangboo named Miss Esme to join the roster.

New Chapter and Area

A new main story chapter is coming in 2.1 titled The Impending Crash of Waves.

• It takes place in Sailume Bay and introduces a summer themed region called the Fantasy Resort
• The setting looks completely different from previous urban Hollow Zones, with bright skies and ocean backdrops
• New music and cinematic story segments were teased during the stream

This chapter continues the main narrative and introduces several characters in a more casual, tropical setting.

Free and Paid Summer Outfits

Version 2.1 is also bringing new cosmetics. Some are earnable for free while others are premium.

• Yuzuha – “Tanuki in Broad Daylight”
• Alice – “Sea of Thyme”
• Belle – “Summer Skies” (free reward)
• Wise – “Peaceful Waves” (free reward)

Belle and Wise’s outfits will be unlocked through limited time events during the patch.

Major Events in Version 2.1

Several themed events are planned for 2.1 and they all give valuable materials, Polychromes, and character upgrade items.

Headline Event

• Tales of Midsummer Dreams – A summer themed story event focused on Yuzuha and Alice

Additional Events

• En Nah Chess Legend
• Ghost Ship Adventure
• Jojo’s Space Mystery
• Failume Summer Puzzle

Each one has its own set of mini challenges, boss fights, and Bangboo side quests.

Quality of Life Improvements

The developers are introducing a handful of much requested quality of life upgrades in 2.1:

• Better controller mapping for both combat and menus
• Improved mini map with clearer objective routing
• Skip directly into combat during Notorious Hunts
• Updated UI in Deadly Assault showing season rank after reaching 9 stars
• Suibian Temple mini game now offers more strategy and visual updates

These are changes that will stick around long after summer ends, and they show that the team is listening to feedback.

Livestream Code

The 2.1 livestream gave out one limited time redeem code:

SPOOKSHACK
Rewards:

• 300 Polychromes
• 2 Senior Investigator Logs
• 3 W Engine Energy Modules
• 30000 Dennies

Expires on July 6, so make sure you redeem it as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts

Version 2.1 is one of the most exciting updates Zenless Zone Zero has had so far. We are getting two S rank agents, summer outfits, a new map, great events, and upgrades that will make the game smoother to play. Whether you are pulling for Yuzuha, saving for Alice, or just logging in for the free rewards, this patch is a win.

If you liked this breakdown and want more deep dives into character kits, team building, rerun banners, and event previews, subscribe to The Gamers Cut. I will be covering everything coming in 2.2 and beyond. Stay ahead of the meta and always know where to spend your Polychromes.