Zenless Zone Zero Version 2.5: Game-Changing Additions, Elite Agents & Must-Do Events

The highly anticipated Version 2.5 update for Zenless Zone Zero, titled “To Be Fuel for the Night,” is set to revolutionize New Eridu. Launching on 2025-12-30 at 06:00 (UTC+8), this patch introduces two formidable S-Rank Agents, significant system overhauls, and a rich array of events. Whether you are a seasoned Proxy or just beginning your journey, this update redefines what to prioritize for your pulls and how to strategically approach the upcoming grind.

Hailed as one of ZZZ’s most substantial updates, Version 2.5 not only features the new characters Ye Shunguang and Zhao but also implements extensive quality-of-life improvements and fresh progression pathways, beneficial for both free-to-play and budget-conscious players. Here’s a breakdown of the key highlights and what every Proxy should be aware of before the banners go live.

Version 2.5 Highlights: Quick Overview

Patch Deployment: 2025-12-30 06:00 (UTC+8); approximately 5 hours of maintenance
Featured Banners: S-Rank Agents Ye Shunguang (Honed Edge – Offensive) & Zhao (Ice – Defensive)
Prominent Events: “Sword Seeker Chronicles”, “Joint Investigation: The Divine Maze”, 7-day login bonuses, complimentary Jane outfit
Core Rewards: Polychrome ×600, a 10-pull (Encrypted Master Tape), event-exclusive free Zhao
Key System Enhancements: Buyan Store, Potential Vision, Proxy Outposts, UI/Drive Disc improvements

Banner Lineup & S-Rank Agents

Phase	Duration (UTC+8)	Banner Title	Rate-up S-Rank
Initial Launch/Phase I	2025-12-30 until patch concludes	Light Upon Fingertips	Ye Shunguang
		Priceless Heart	Zhao
Weapon	2025-12-30 until patch concludes	Dissonant Sonata / Dazzling Choir	Cloudcleave Radiance / Half-Sugar Bunny

Pull Rates & Pity System: Specific details regarding Signal Search mechanics and rates for Version 2.5 have not been disclosed in official communications. Players should consult the in-game announcements for precise information upon release.

New Agents: Value, Functions, and Initial Impressions

Ye Shunguang (S-Rank, Honed Edge – Offensive): This agent brings a distinctively aggressive style to combat. She can enter the Enlightened Mind state to unleash Ether Veil: Verdict and powerful multi-hit Honed Edge DMG. Her ultimate chain, culminating in Cleaving Heavens, is poised to deliver some of the highest burst damage for her category. She is an ideal choice for primary DPS teams seeking consistent, high-damage output with flexibility in team construction.

Zhao (S-Rank, Ice – Defensive): A versatile hybrid, Zhao provides both team-wide ATK/DMG boosts and healing, enhancing team resonance through the Ether Veil: Wellspring effect. Her Frostbite resource scales exceptionally well in extended battles or challenging content (e.g., Hollow Zero+Shiyu), making her an attractive option for shielding and stat amplification, especially for free-to-play rosters looking to consolidate multiple utilities into one character.

Should You Recruit Them?– Free-to-Play & Low Spenders: Zhao is a top priority due to her utility and long-term viability, particularly as she can be acquired for free through an event. Ye Shunguang serves as a premium DPS—excellent for players who enjoy high burst damage but less critical if you already have other strong main carries.- Current Meta: Both agents are expected to be foundational in leading teams for at least this patch cycle. Consider waiting for early performance metrics and community reviews before making a final decision.

Team Compositions, Synergies, and Key W-Engines

Ye Shunguang Core: Best complemented by Ether support and swift energy regeneration. Initial analyses suggest strong synergy with decibel-boosting Bangboos and dedicated shield providers.
Zhao Adaptable Builds: Seamlessly integrates into mono-Ice or hybrid teams as the primary enabler-healer. Highly versatile for both free-to-play and high-spending player setups.
W-Engine Impact:
- Cloudcleave Radiance (S-Rank, Attack): Directly complements Ye Shunguang; a recommended acquisition if pulling for her.
- Half-Sugar Bunny (S-Rank, Defense): Optimal for maximizing Zhao’s defensive capabilities, but also a viable swap for other shield-focused characters.
- A-Rank Cauldron of Clarity is an event-exclusive reward; budget-conscious players should ensure they claim it within the specified timeframe.

Events & Rewards: Essential Activities to Prioritize

Event Title	Dates (server TZ)	Primary Rewards	Prerequisites
All-New Program (7-day Login)	2025-12-30 — 2026-02-05	10× Encrypted Master Tape	Inter-Knot Lv. 5, Prologue completed
Special Visitor (Free Zhao Event)	2025-12-30 — End of 2.6	Zhao + Enhancement Materials	Inter-Knot Lv. 5, Prologue completed
Sword Seeker Chronicles	2025-12-31 — 2026-02-05	Cauldron of Clarity (A W-Engine)	Inter-Knot Lv. 20, Ch.1 Intermission
Joint Investigation: Divine Maze	2026-01-03 — 2026-01-22	Materials, exclusive event loot	Inter-Knot Lv. 20, Ch.1 Intermission
Shadow Riptide Clash	2026-01-09 — 2026-01-26	Premium crafting materials, unique accessories	Inter-Knot Lv. 20, Ch.1 Intermission
Angels/Delusions/Boopon Logins	2026-01-21 — 2026-02-05	Boopon ×10 and additional login bonuses	Inter-Knot Lv. 5+, Prologue
Jane “Nocturne of Light” Outfit	2025-12-30 — 2026-02-06	Free cosmetic (Monochrome ×0)	Not specified; widely available

Crucial Note: Many events, including the opportunity to acquire a free S-Rank agent and an A-rank W-Engine, are time-sensitive. Failure to log in or complete core objectives within their active windows may result in permanent forfeiture of rewards or delays in your progression.

QOL & Systems: Enhancing Daily Gameplay

Buyan Store & Mystery Points: Unlock unique collectibles and tiered rewards by engaging in aerospace exploration; this system promotes deeper interaction with the game world beyond routine activities.
Potential Vision System: Enables long-term power scaling for existing Agents. Free-to-play players can accumulate upgrades through Daily Performances earned from various missions, without requiring direct gacha pulls.
Proxy Outpost & Intel Board: These social hubs facilitate sharing, communication, and commission posting among Proxies, integrating seamlessly with new group-oriented event types.
Drive Disc, UI, and Crafting Enhancements:
- Features include automatic dismantling, targeted stat filtering, and batch tuning for Drive Discs.
- Provides rapid access and improved display tools—especially valuable for efficient endgame inventory management.
System Unlock Adjustments: Numerous features (like the Shop, Music, and Challenge modes) are now decoupled from specific story progression and instead become accessible based on your Inter-Knot level, allowing for more flexible gameplay planning.

Pre-Patch Preparation & Day-One Action Plan

Reach Inter-Knot Lv. 4/5 before 2025-12-30 06:00 (UTC+8) to claim over 600 free Polychrome as compensation for the patch/update.
Get Ready for Event Unlocks: Monitor your Inter-Knot progression—prioritizing Level 20 is essential to access key events such as Sword Seeker, Double Drops, and Divine Maze.
Agent/Weapon Materials: Begin farming general resources, as new units may require new materials (not explicitly detailed in official releases).
Inventory Optimization: Organize your Drive Discs and review recipes before system updates launch to ensure smooth conversion and immediate access to new batch/bulk management tools.

Unconfirmed Details — Subject To Revisions

All information provided above is corroborated by official Version 2.5 patch notes and event schedules. This article does not reference any additional unconfirmed banners or leaks, in line with current GenshinBuilds editorial guidelines. For any live-event or banner extension alterations, please refer directly to in-game notices or official HoYoverse channels.

Conclusion: A Landmark Update for Proxies

Zenless Zone Zero’s Version 2.5 represents a pivotal moment—a monumental patch not only for its featured characters but also for enhancing the overall player experience and game accessibility. The combination of complimentary rewards, social features, and mechanical improvements is set to elevate the prospects for free-to-play players and fuel late-game ambitions alike. For those pursuing elite teams or simply seeking compelling reasons to engage daily, Version 2.5 promises substantial value across all gameplay levels.

For more in-depth analyses, ongoing tier list updates, and advanced team guides, stay informed by visiting GenshinBuilds’ Zenless Zone Zero hub in the coming weeks.

Recommended supplementary visuals:– An infographic illustrating event timelines, highlighting login periods for free pulls and Zhao’s acquisition. Alt text: A visual timeline detailing dates and prerequisites for Version 2.5 events and rewards in Zenless Zone Zero.– Side-by-side promotional artwork of Ye Shunguang and Zhao, with their respective banner dates prominently displayed. Alt text: Promotional image showcasing S-Rank characters Ye Shunguang and Zhao, alongside their banner schedules.