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Zenless Zone Zero Tier List (July 2026): Characters & Rankings

Last Updated: July, 2026.

Searching for the definitive Zenless Zone Zero tier list to dominate Version 2.7’s endgame? The meta has transformed dramatically over the past four major updates, introducing powerhouse agents like Ye Shunguang and Aria while reshaping how teams function in Shiyu Defense and Deadly Assault. I’ve spent hundreds of hours testing every character at Mindscape Cinema 0 across all current content to bring you rankings that reflect the actual state of New Eridu. Whether you’re optimizing for 20,000-point Deadly Assault clears or building your first competitive roster, this guide cuts through the noise with precise tier placements and team recommendations.

Quick Reference: Version 2.7 Meta Summary

TierBest CharactersMeta Role
S+ (Void Hunter Tier)Ye Shunguang, Aria, SunnaCharacters that redefine the entire meta
S+ (Meta Definers)Miyabi (Expert), Nangong Yu, Yixuan (Expert), Lucia, Astra Yao, YuzuhaCore agents shaping competitive play
S (Top Tier)Nicole (Expert), Zhao, Dialyn, Evelyn, Vivian, Yanagi, Ju FufuExtremely powerful with broad versatility
A (Strong)Alice, Burnice, Hugo, Lighter, Trigger, Cissia, BanyueExcellent performers with specific synergies
B (Viable)Jane Doe, Zhu Yuan, Qingyi, Lycaon, EllenSolid choices with proper team support
C (Situational)Harumasa, Seth, CaesarCan work but outclassed by newer options
D (Struggling)Billy, Grace, Koleda, Ben, Anby, CorinRequires massive investment for poor returns

Understanding This Tier List

How Are Characters Ranked in Zenless Zone Zero?

All rankings in this Version 2.7 tier list evaluate characters at Mindscape Cinema 0 (M0) to ensure fair comparisons between S-Rank and A-Rank agents. I test each character across Shiyu Defense speed clears, Deadly Assault scoring potential, and general endgame content viability. Performance at Mindscape 6 (M6) may shift some placements, particularly for characters with transformative constellations.

What Do the Expert and Partner Tags Mean?

Characters marked with (Expert) reach their full potential only through high skill expression and precise rotation execution. Miyabi exemplifies this – she achieves S+ tier performance in expert hands but drops significantly for casual players. The Partner tag indicates characters who excel specifically when paired with certain teammates rather than functioning universally. Understanding these distinctions helps you invest in characters matching your playstyle and mechanical comfort level.

Role Categories: CRIT DPS, Anomaly DPS, Support, and Stun

Modern Zenless Zone Zero team building revolves around four core roles. CRIT DPS agents focus on critical hit multipliers and direct damage output. Anomaly DPS characters build Attribute Anomalies to trigger powerful Disorder reactions. Support agents provide team buffs, healing, or defensive utility. Stun specialists generate Daze to create damage windows through stun states. The best teams combine these roles synergistically based on content requirements.

Version 2.7 Tier List Change Log

Staying current with tier movements helps you understand why characters rise or fall. Here are the significant changes across Versions 2.4 through 2.7:

  • Version 2.7: Ye Shunguang added as first Void Hunter tier character. Nangong Yu enters S+ tier as premier Stun agent. Cissia joins A tier as niche Rupture support. Harumasa buffs elevate him to C tier viability.
  • Version 2.6: Aria revolutionizes Anomaly DPS as S+ tier Ether specialist. Ellen buffs move her from C tier to B tier. Seth falls further behind with power creep acceleration.
  • Version 2.5: Sunna becomes S+ tier support powerhouse. Zhao enters S tier as free Defense character with surprising utility. Ju Fufu maintains S tier through Yixuan synergy.
  • Version 2.4: Dialyn introduces game-changing off-field Stun mechanics at S tier. Banyue joins Fire Rupture archetype at A tier. Original predictions corrected – both characters now released.

S+ Tier: The Void Hunter Tier

These three characters transcend normal tier boundaries. They don’t just excel – they fundamentally alter how you approach team building and content strategy. Investing in any Void Hunter tier agent guarantees long-term viability regardless of future power creep.

Who Is the Best Character in Zenless Zone Zero?

Ye Shunguang – The Void Hunter

Ye Shunguang shattered every expectation upon release in Version 2.7, establishing himself as the single strongest agent in Zenless Zone Zero history. His unique Void Hunter designation represents a new power ceiling that makes previous top tiers look ordinary. The combination of massive CRIT DPS scaling, built-in DEF shred, and self-sufficient energy generation creates a hypercarry that demands minimal team investment while delivering maximum returns.

Why He’s Void Hunter Tier:

  • Unmatched single-target and AoE damage simultaneously
  • Void Hunter mechanics ignore enemy resistance calculations
  • Self-sustaining energy eliminates battery requirements
  • Works with literally any support combination
  • Future-proof against power creep through unique designation

Optimal Team: Ye Shunguang + Sunna + Astra Yao / Nangong Yu

Aria – The Ether Anomaly Queen

Aria’s arrival in Version 2.6 completely redefined Anomaly DPS potential. Her Ether-based kit combines rapid Corruption application with burst windows that rival traditional CRIT DPS characters. What separates Aria from other Anomaly agents is her ability to maintain consistent damage while building Anomaly buildup, eliminating the traditional downtime associated with Disorder-focused teams.

Why She’s Void Hunter Tier:

  • Highest Anomaly DPS damage ceiling in the game
  • Dual-mode playstyle adapts to any content type
  • Corruption application speed unmatched by competitors
  • Thrives in both quick swap and hypercarry rotations
  • Enables entirely new Ether-focused team archetypes

Optimal Team: Aria + Yuzuha + Nicole / Vivian

Sunna – The Universal Enabler

Sunna represents support evolution at its finest. Released in Version 2.5, she provides every buff type you could want while introducing unique mechanics that amplify your main DPS beyond traditional calculations. Her Radiant Blessing system scales with the supported character’s investment, meaning she grows stronger as your team develops – the ultimate future-proof support.

Why She’s Void Hunter Tier:

  • Universal damage buffs work with CRIT and Anomaly DPS alike
  • Radiant Blessing scales exponentially with character investment
  • Off-field utility requires minimal rotation time
  • Healing and shielding provide defensive security
  • Makes any DPS character competitive in endgame content

Optimal Usage: Pairs with literally any main DPS as primary support

S+ Tier: The Meta Definers

These characters shape competitive Zenless Zone Zero play without reaching the transcendent power of Void Hunter tier. They excel in specific roles and enable powerful team archetypes that dominate current content. Every serious player should consider investing in at least two Meta Definers for team building flexibility.

Which Characters Define the Current Meta?

Hoshimi Miyabi (Expert) – The Frost Empress

Miyabi maintains elite status in Version 2.7, though the Expert tag acknowledges her demanding skill ceiling. Her Frost mechanics and Shatter damage remain among the highest burst potentials available, but achieving optimal performance requires precise Fallen Frost management and rotation timing. For players willing to master her kit, Miyabi delivers exceptional results.

Why She’s S+ Tier (Expert):

  • Highest burst damage potential at high skill expression
  • Frost/Ice Disorder synergy enables unique compositions
  • Shatter mechanics provide crowd control utility
  • Performance drops significantly without optimal execution

Optimal Team: Miyabi + Lighter + Yuzuha / Sunna

Nangong Yu – The Stun Perfectionist

Version 2.7’s Nangong Yu redefined what Stun agents can accomplish. Beyond exceptional Daze generation, he provides team-wide buffs during stun windows that multiply your main DPS damage significantly. His Flow State mechanics create seamless transitions between stunning and supporting that no other Stun agent can match.

Why He’s S+ Tier:

  • Fastest Daze application in the game
  • Stun window buffs rival dedicated supports
  • Flow State enables uninterrupted combos
  • Universal compatibility with all DPS types

Optimal Team: Nangong Yu + Ye Shunguang + Sunna

Yixuan (Expert) – The Rupture Revolutionary

Yixuan’s Rupture mechanics through Sheer Force scaling remain revolutionary, though the Expert tag recognizes her demanding execution requirements. Properly played, she bypasses enemy defense entirely with Auric Ink damage. Lucia’s support amplifies her potential further, creating one of the highest ceiling duos in the game.

Why She’s S+ Tier (Expert):

  • Defense-ignoring damage unique to Rupture
  • HP scaling creates durable DPS presence
  • Dual ultimates provide adaptability
  • Requires precise Sheer Force management

Optimal Team: Yixuan + Lucia + Ju Fufu / Cissia

Lucia – The Rupture Enabler

Lucia transformed the Rupture archetype from niche to meta-defining. Her Dream State and Ether Veil buffs specifically target HP-scaling characters, making her irreplaceable for Yixuan teams. The Darkbreaker state provides exclusive Sheer Force multipliers that no other support can replicate.

Why She’s S+ Tier:

  • HP buffs scale Rupture damage exponentially
  • Darkbreaker provides unique multipliers
  • Aftershock damage adds substantial sub-DPS
  • Enables Yixuan’s full competitive potential

Astra Yao – The Universal Support

Astra Yao revolutionized support design as Zenless Zone Zero’s premier healer. Her Idyllic Cadenza state provides teamwide buffs while maintaining invulnerability frames, fundamentally changing aggressive team strategies. She converts quick assists into chain attacks, optimizing rotation flow for any composition.

Why She’s S+ Tier:

  • Only dedicated healer with burst healing ultimate
  • Quick assist conversion optimizes rotations
  • Universal damage and CRIT buffs
  • Works in every possible team composition

Yuzuha – The Anomaly Amplifier

Yuzuha transformed Anomaly teams from niche concern to competitive necessity. Her Tanuki Wish buffs and Sweet Scare debuff create multiplicative damage increases that stack beautifully with other supports. Off-field elemental matching follow-ups provide constant Anomaly pressure.

Why She’s S+ Tier:

  • Best-in-slot support for all Anomaly DPS
  • Off-field damage maintains Anomaly pressure
  • Sugar Points add free Aftershock damage
  • Enables previously unviable Anomaly compositions

S Tier: The Powerhouses

S tier agents deliver exceptional performance across diverse team compositions. They may lack the meta-defining impact of S+ tier or require more specific team building, but they remain excellent investments for any account. These characters clear all content comfortably with proper support.

Which Characters Excel in Most Team Compositions?

Nicole Demara (Expert) – The Budget Queen

Don’t underestimate Nicole’s A-rank status – she’s one of the most valuable agents in Zenless Zone Zero when played optimally. Her universal DEF shred and black hole crowd control create opportunities unmatched by premium supports. The Expert tag acknowledges that achieving S-tier performance requires precise energy management and rotation timing.

Why She’s S Tier (Expert):

  • Universal DEF shred benefits every damage type
  • Black hole enables powerful AoE strategies
  • Ether damage synergizes with Corruption teams
  • F2P accessible with high skill ceiling

Zhao – The Free Powerhouse

Version 2.5’s free Defense character exceeded all expectations. Zhao combines respectable personal damage with team protection mechanics that enable riskier playstyles. His Fortress Mode provides unique buffs that scale with his defense stat, making him unexpectedly versatile.

Why He’s S Tier:

  • Free acquisition through event participation
  • Defense scaling provides unique buff mechanics
  • Team protection enables aggressive strategies
  • Surprising damage output for Defense specialty

Dialyn – The Off-Field Stun Master

Dialyn revolutionized Stun gameplay upon her Version 2.4 release. Her ability to generate substantial Daze without requiring field time enables entirely new team structures where your main DPS maintains near-constant uptime. This paradigm shift earns her automatic S tier placement.

Why She’s S Tier:

  • Generates Daze through off-field mechanics
  • Enables hypercarry team compositions
  • Minimal rotation time required
  • Universal compatibility with all DPS agents

Evelyn – The Chain Attack Specialist

Evelyn defined burst damage potential through chain attack focus. Her Burning Embers mechanics create predictable damage windows that synergize with modern support options. While newer characters have introduced competition, she remains a powerhouse for fire-focused compositions.

Why She’s S Tier:

  • Highest chain attack damage multipliers
  • 125% damage bonus at full optimization
  • Binding Seal creates automatic follow-ups
  • Excellent synergy with Lighter and Astra Yao

Vivian – The Anomaly Multiplier

Vivian’s Ether Anomaly kit straddles support and sub-DPS roles seamlessly. Her Abloom mechanic scales with your main DPS’s Anomaly investment, creating exponential growth potential. She provides substantial off-field damage during your primary agent’s downtime.

Why She’s S Tier:

  • Damage scales with main DPS investment
  • Works with every Anomaly character
  • Substantial off-field contribution
  • Guard Feather management rewards skill

Yanagi – The Disorder Master

Yanagi’s Polarity Disorder revolutionized Anomaly gameplay by triggering Disorder without removing existing anomalies. This enables chain reactions previously impossible and drives the current Disorder-focused meta direction.

Why She’s S Tier:

  • Instant Disorder activation without removal
  • Stance system provides consistent buffs
  • High skill ceiling rewards mastery
  • Future-proof as more Anomaly agents release

Ju Fufu – The Decibel Engine

Ju Fufu combines off-field stunning with substantial team buffs. Her Tiger’s Roar effect and Decibel generation enable ultimate spam strategies that dramatically increase team damage output. She remains particularly valuable for Yixuan compositions.

Why She’s S Tier:

  • Off-field Daze application maintains pressure
  • Team-wide CRIT and ultimate damage buffs
  • Decibel refund enables frequent ultimates
  • Essential for optimal Yixuan teams

A Tier: The Specialists

A tier agents excel within specific team compositions or against particular content types. They require more thoughtful building than S tier characters but reward proper investment with strong performance. Many players successfully clear all endgame content using well-built A tier teams.

What Characters Excel With Proper Team Building?

Alice – The Symmetrical Slasher

Alice’s Physical Anomaly kit delivers consistent Assault application with Disorder potential. Her Starshine Waltz creates immediate burst opportunities that shine in quick-swap compositions. She performs admirably when supported by Yuzuha’s amplification.

Strengths:

  • Instant Assault application speed
  • Strong Disorder synergy with partners
  • Passive damage over time maintains pressure
  • Yuzuha pairing maximizes potential

Weaknesses:

  • Signature W-Engine significantly improves performance
  • Resource management requires attention

Burnice – The Afterburn Artist

Burnice excels at off-field Anomaly buildup through her Nitro-Fuel Cocktail State. Her Afterburn assist damage adds substantial team DPS that multiplies with proper support investment. She shines specifically in Fire Anomaly and Disorder-focused teams.

Strengths:

  • Exceptional off-field damage contribution
  • Rapid Heat generation enables frequent bursts
  • Enhanced dodge provides mobility
  • Enables powerful Disorder teams

Hugo – The Stun Synergist

Hugo’s Ice Attack kit rewards perfect Stun timing with massive damage multipliers. Double-stun compositions unlock his true potential, though this requirement limits team building flexibility. When conditions align, he delivers spectacular burst damage.

Strengths:

  • Huge burst during stun windows
  • Chain attack stacking buffs
  • Lighter and Lycaon create perfect synergy
  • Reduces support requirements when optimized

Weaknesses:

  • Requires two premium Stun agents for full value
  • Damage falls off dramatically without stuns

Lighter – The Elemental Amplifier

Lighter revolutionized Fire/Ice teams with his unique support capabilities. His Morale Burst State and stun extension create unprecedented damage windows. The three-second stun extension remains unique among all agents and fundamentally alters rotation timing.

Strengths:

  • Unique three-second stun extension
  • Fire/Ice damage amplification
  • Passive Morale generation smooths rotations
  • Functions as both stunner and support

Trigger – The Shadow Stunner

Trigger perfected off-field stunning with her Purge system. Consistent Daze application enables field-hungry DPS characters while she remains off-screen. Her Aftershock damage multiplier adds bonus value beyond pure stunning.

Strengths:

  • Best off-field Stun mechanics available
  • Aftershock damage multiplier adds value
  • Minimal field time required
  • Universal team compatibility

Cissia – The Rupture Specialist

Version 2.7’s Cissia provides niche but powerful support for Rupture teams. Her specialized buffs target Sheer Force scaling specifically, making her valuable exclusively for Yixuan and Banyue compositions. Outside Rupture teams, her value drops considerably.

Strengths:

  • Sheer Force amplification unique to Rupture
  • HP buff scaling benefits Rupture DPS
  • Excellent Yixuan synergy

Banyue – The Fire Rupture DPS

Banyue introduced Fire Rupture mechanics in Version 2.4, offering an alternative to Yixuan’s Ether Rupture approach. While she doesn’t reach Yixuan’s damage ceiling, she provides accessible Rupture gameplay for players preferring Fire teams or lacking Yixuan.

Strengths:

  • Fire Rupture offers elemental variety
  • Defense-ignoring damage like Yixuan
  • Good synergy with Lighter

B Tier: The Reliable Veterans

B tier characters remain viable for clearing all content with proper team investment. While power creep has introduced stronger alternatives, these agents still reward loyal players who enjoy their playstyles. They represent solid mid-game options before transitioning to higher tier units.

Which Characters Remain Viable Despite Power Creep?

Jane Doe – The Physical Phantom

Jane’s incredible mobility and Passion Stream mechanics still deliver solid performance despite newer Anomaly options. Alice partnerships create dual Assault synergy that elevates both characters. She requires more investment than modern alternatives but remains functional.

Current Standing:

  • Viable with proper investment and team support
  • Alice partnership creates interesting synergy
  • Requires premium supports for competitive damage
  • Outclassed by Aria in most scenarios

Zhu Yuan – The Ether Enforcer

Zhu Yuan’s versatile kit combines ranged and melee combat effectively. Her Enhanced Shotshell bursts remain satisfying, though they struggle against modern DPS standards. Nicole synergy and Corruption application maintain some relevance.

Viability:

  • Nicole + Qingyi teams remain functional
  • Corruption synergy provides unique utility
  • Solid for Ether-weak content specifically
  • Investment better spent on newer units

Qingyi – The Stun Specialist

Qingyi’s 60% stun damage multiplier remains impressive on paper, but finding suitable partners has grown increasingly difficult as the meta evolves. She works well with burst-focused teams when you lack Nangong Yu or Dialyn.

Current Usage:

  • Excellent with burst-focused team compositions
  • Pairs adequately with Yixuan lacking Ju Fufu
  • Subjugation stacks reward perfect execution
  • Limited by available team composition options

Lycaon – The Ice Butler

Lycaon’s straightforward stunning and tankiness provide reliable performance, especially within Ice teams. His simplicity makes him beginner-friendly despite lower damage ceilings than premium alternatives.

Strengths:

  • High health pool provides survivability
  • Simple charge-based gameplay accessible to beginners
  • Hugo synergy creates viable double-stun teams
  • F2P friendly performance without heavy investment

Ellen – The Resurging Star

Ellen’s Version 2.6 buffs elevated her from C tier struggles to B tier viability. Her Flash Freeze mechanics received quality-of-life improvements that make her rotation smoother. While she won’t compete with Miyabi or Ye Shunguang, she’s now a respectable Ice DPS for players who enjoy her playstyle.

Current Standing:

  • Buffs improved rotation flow significantly
  • Roaming state mechanics updated for modern QoL
  • Respectable Ice DPS with proper team
  • Viable for players enjoying her playstyle

C Tier: The Struggling Survivors

C tier characters face significant challenges in current content. They can clear endgame with substantial investment but require far more resources than higher-tier alternatives. Consider these agents only if you particularly enjoy their design or lack better options.

Why Have These Characters Fallen Behind?

Harumasa – The Buffed Archer

Version 2.6 buffs improved Harumasa’s standing from D tier, but he still struggles to compete. His Electro Prison mechanics require extensive setup for damage that doesn’t justify the complexity. As a free character, he’s serviceable for new players but quickly replaceable.

Limitations:

  • Overclock passive remains too conditional
  • Requires specific team compositions for value
  • Buffs helped but didn’t address core issues
  • Better Electric options readily available

Seth – The Anomaly Shield

Seth’s defensive kit suited earlier metas but lacks relevance in current burst-focused gameplay. Shields provide minimal value when speed-clearing remains the optimization target.

Problems:

  • Shield value negligible in speed-clear meta
  • Anomaly proficiency buffs outdated
  • Animation locks create vulnerability
  • Completely outclassed by Yuzuha

Caesar – The Misunderstood Tank

Caesar’s kit provides solid buffs but doesn’t fit modern rotation timings. Her shield-based gameplay contradicts the aggressive meta direction while her ultimate provides minimal value compared to alternatives.

Issues:

  • Clunky rotation integration
  • Ultimate provides minimal competitive value
  • Shield gameplay anti-synergistic with dodging
  • ATK buffs insufficient compared to alternatives

D Tier: The Bench Warmers

These characters struggle even with maximum investment and optimal teams. Only use them if you particularly enjoy their playstyle or have absolutely no alternatives. Every resource spent here would generate better returns on any higher-tier character.

Which Characters Should You Avoid Investing In?

Billy – Fragile gunslinger completely outclassed by every Physical DPS option. His damage output doesn’t justify his squishiness or complexity.

Grace – Electric grenades cannot compete with modern Anomaly options. Her mechanics feel clunky and her damage falls short of every alternative.

Koleda – Fire stunning completely overshadowed by Lighter and modern options. Her kit lacks any unique utility worth building around.

Ben – The tank role has become obsolete in speed-clear focused content. He provides nothing that premium supports don’t do better.

Anby – The starter character has been power crept by every subsequent Stun release. Replace her immediately upon obtaining any alternative.

Corin – Single-target focus without sufficient damage to justify the limitation. Outclassed by every other Physical option available.

How Do I Build the Best Teams?

Meta Team Compositions for Version 2.7

Modern Zenless Zone Zero team building revolves around maximizing your main DPS uptime while supporting them with complementary buffs. These compositions represent the current competitive meta for Deadly Assault and Shiyu Defense.

Void Hunter Hypercarry

  • Ye Shunguang (Main CRIT DPS)
  • Sunna (Universal Support)
  • Nangong Yu (Stun/Buffer)
  • Alternative: Astra Yao replaces Sunna for healing priority

Strategy: Maximize Ye Shunguang field time with off-field support from Sunna and rapid stuns from Nangong Yu. This team achieves the highest consistent damage output in the game.

Ether Anomaly Domination

  • Aria (Main Anomaly DPS)
  • Yuzuha (Anomaly Amplifier)
  • Nicole (DEF Shred/Crowd Control)
  • Alternative: Vivian replaces Nicole for additional Anomaly synergy

Strategy: Build rapid Corruption application through Aria while Yuzuha multiplies Anomaly damage. Nicole’s DEF shred and grouping amplifies both single-target and AoE scenarios.

Frostburn Dynasty

  • Miyabi (Main Frost DPS)
  • Lighter (Stun/Support)
  • Yuzuha (Anomaly Support)
  • Alternative: Soukaku provides F2P support option

Strategy: Leverage Lighter’s unique stun extension to maximize Miyabi’s burst windows. Yuzuha amplifies both direct damage and any Frost Anomaly applications.

Rupture Revolution

  • Yixuan (Main Rupture DPS)
  • Lucia (Rupture Support)
  • Ju Fufu (Stun/Decibel)
  • Alternative: Cissia replaces Ju Fufu for pure Rupture optimization

Strategy: Stack HP buffs from Lucia to amplify Yixuan’s Sheer Force damage. Ju Fufu’s Decibel generation enables frequent ultimates that maintain pressure during rotations.

Disorder Mayhem

  • Yanagi (Primary Anomaly DPS)
  • Burnice (Sub-DPS/Heat)
  • Vivian (Anomaly Multiplier)
  • Alternative: Nicole provides DEF shred variation

Strategy: Chain Disorders through Yanagi’s Polarity Disorder without removing existing anomalies. Burnice maintains off-field Heat generation while Vivian multiplies Anomaly output.

Off-Field Stun System

  • Any Main DPS (Ye Shunguang, Aria, or Miyabi recommended)
  • Dialyn (Off-Field Stun)
  • Sunna (Universal Support)
  • Alternative: Trigger replaces Dialyn for budget option

Strategy: Maintain 100% main DPS uptime through Dialyn’s unique off-field Daze generation. This emerging archetype may define future meta development.

F2P Friendly Core

  • Nicole (Support) – Available from start
  • Zhao (Defense/Stun) – Free from Version 2.5 event
  • Harumasa (DPS) – Free from story progression
  • Note: Viable for early game, transition to premium units as available

Strategy: Nicole’s universal utility carries this team. Zhao provides surprising value for a free unit. Replace Harumasa with any S-tier DPS when possible.

W-Engine Recommendations by Character

Signature W-Engines provide 15-30% performance improvements for most characters, though some agents depend heavily on their signature while others function well with alternatives. Here are the priority recommendations for S+ and S tier characters:

CharacterSignature W-EnginePriorityAlternative
Ye ShunguangVoid Hunter’s OathHighSteel Cushion
AriaEther SymphonyHighRoaring Ride
SunnaRadiant HarmonyMediumBashful Demon
MiyabiDeep Sea VisitorHighStarlight Engine
Nangong YuFlowing WaterMediumThe Vault
YixuanSheer ForceHighDemara Battery Mark II
LuciaDream WeaverMediumBashful Demon
NicoleWeeping CradleLowAny support W-Engine
ZhaoFortress WallMediumOriginal Transformed
DialynShadow StitchMediumThe Restrained

What Characters Are Coming Next?

Version 2.8 Predictions and Future Roadmap

Based on official HoYoverse teasers and beta leaks, Version 2.8 will introduce exciting new agents that may reshape the meta once again:

  • Promeia – Anticipated Physical CRIT DPS with unique combo mechanics, potentially competing with Ye Shunguang for top DPS position
  • Starlight Billy – Complete rework of the original Billy character into a viable S-rank agent with new abilities and improved damage scaling
  • New Faction Expansion – Additional characters from upcoming story regions will introduce fresh elemental synergies
  • Anomaly Support – Rumored support specifically designed to challenge Yuzuha’s dominance in Anomaly teams

Note: Previous predictions regarding Dialyn and Banyue were accurate – both characters released in Version 2.4 as anticipated. They have been incorporated into the current tier list rankings above.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does the Zenless Zone Zero tier list change?

The tier list shifts significantly with major version updates every 6 weeks. Minor adjustments occur through balance patches and new strategy discoveries. Version 2.7’s introduction of Ye Shunguang and Nangong Yu caused major ranking changes, particularly in the top tier.

Should I pull for S+ tier characters?

Focus on completing one synergistic team before chasing individual S+ tier units. A well-built A-tier team often outperforms scattered S+ characters. Prioritize Sunna or Yuzuha first as universal supports that improve any composition, then build around a premium DPS like Ye Shunguang or Aria.

Who is the best character in Zenless Zone Zero?

Ye Shunguang currently holds the title as Zenless Zone Zero’s strongest character, occupying the unique Void Hunter tier above even S+ rankings. His combination of self-sustaining energy, massive CRIT DPS scaling, and team flexibility makes him the definitive best agent in Version 2.7.

What makes Miyabi better than other DPS characters?

Miyabi delivers the highest burst damage potential at high skill expression, though she carries the Expert tag indicating demanding execution requirements. Her Frost mechanics and Shatter damage create unique crowd control opportunities. However, Ye Shunguang and Aria now compete for top DPS position depending on team investment and player skill level.

Can F2P players compete in endgame content?

Absolutely! Nicole remains S-tier despite being A-rank, and Zhao’s free availability in Version 2.5 provides excellent utility. Combine these with event characters and free units like Harumasa for viable teams. Focus resources on one optimized team rather than spreading investments thin across multiple partial teams.

How important are signature W-Engines?

Signature W-Engines provide 15-30% performance improvements but aren’t mandatory for most characters. Alice and Ye Shunguang benefit significantly from signatures, while Nicole performs excellently with any support W-Engine. Prioritize character acquisition over weapon pulls unless optimizing specific high-investment teams.

Why is Nicole rated so high despite being A-Rank?

Nicole’s universal DEF shred works with every damage type, making her valuable in any team composition. Her black hole grouping enables powerful AoE strategies, and she requires minimal field time. The combination of accessibility and power makes her arguably the best investment for any account type.

What is the best team for new players?

Start with Nicole plus Zhao (free from Version 2.5 events) while saving Polychromes for a premium DPS. This core provides support and utility that remains relevant throughout your account progression. Transition to Nicole plus a premium DPS like Ye Shunguang or Aria once you acquire them.

How does Disorder work?

Disorder triggers when applying a different Anomaly to an enemy already affected by one, causing both anomalies to trigger simultaneously. Yanagi’s Polarity Disorder uniquely triggers without removing the original Anomaly, enabling chain reactions. This mechanic drives the current Anomaly-focused meta alongside Ether Veil and Sheer Force systems.

What do the Expert and Partner tags mean?

The Expert tag indicates characters that reach full potential only through high skill expression and precise execution. Miyabi exemplifies this – she drops tiers for casual players. The Partner tag marks characters who excel specifically when paired with certain teammates rather than functioning universally in any team.

Should I build multiple teams for Deadly Assault?

Deadly Assault requires 2-3 teams for maximum rewards, making diverse rosters valuable. However, one optimized team significantly outperforms three mediocre ones. Build your primary team to 20,000 Deadly Assault score capability before investing in alternatives. Most players should prioritize their first team before diversifying.

Is Ellen worth building after her Version 2.6 buffs?

Ellen’s buffs elevated her from C tier to B tier viability, making her respectable for players who enjoy her playstyle. However, she remains outclassed by Miyabi for Ice teams and Ye Shunguang for general CRIT DPS. Build her if you like her design, but don’t expect top-tier performance.

What investment priority should I follow?

First, maximize your main DPS to highest level and key talents. Second, upgrade essential supports to talent breakpoints. Third, acquire appropriate W-Engines. Fourth, optimize Drive Discs with correct main and sub-stats. Finally, develop secondary teams. Focus vertical investment (maxing one team) over horizontal (multiple partial teams).

Save This Tier List!

Bookmark this page for easy reference during your Zenless Zone Zero sessions! The meta evolves constantly across each six-week version cycle, and I update these rankings immediately following balance changes and new character releases. Understanding tier placements helps optimize your limited Polychrome resources and dominate endgame content from Shiyu Defense to Deadly Assault.

Individual skill expression matters tremendously in Zenless Zone Zero. A perfectly played B-tier character often outperforms a poorly executed S+ tier option. Use this tier list as a strategic foundation while developing your personal playstyle preferences. The Expert tag system specifically acknowledges that player skill can elevate or diminish character performance significantly.

Whether you’re pushing for 20,000 Deadly Assault scores, speedrunning Shiyu Defense, collecting favorite characters, or optimizing your first competitive team, this Version 2.7 tier list provides the strategic foundation for success. The introduction of Void Hunter tier with Ye Shunguang signals exciting power evolution ahead, and I’ll continue tracking every shift to keep you informed. Happy hunting in New Eridu, Proxies!

For more detailed analysis of Anomaly-focused characters like Jane Doe and Burnice, see our dedicated Best ZZZ Anomaly Characters guide.

John

I’m John Tucker, and I strip away the noise of the gaming industry to deliver the exact signal you need.

Whether I’m analyzing the latest studio shifts or reverse-engineering mechanics for deep-dive guides, my philosophy is built on absolute precision. I don’t do generic walkthroughs or aggregated rumors. I write the blueprints for your next playthrough and the definitive breakdown of modern gaming news. No filler. Just strategy and truth.