Quick Links
Zenless Zone Zero(ZZZ), the latest action RPG from HoYoverse, features a gacha system known as Signal Search. This system allows players to obtain new characters and equipment by spending in-game currency - as the main way of acquiring most of the characters (agents).
Whether players are a free-to-play or willing to spend money, understanding the mechanics of the Signal Search system, including drop rates, the pity system, and strategies for acquiring characters and equipment, is crucial for optimizing gameplay for acquiring characters. By following this guide, players can make informed decisions on when and how to pull, maximizing their chances of building a strong and effective team.
Signal Search System Overview
The Signal Search system in ZZZ operates similarly to the gacha systems in other popular HoYoverse games likeGenshin ImpactandHonkai Star Rail, except for the Bangboo Channel. Players use a special currency called Polychromes (similar to Stellar Jade and Primogems from the previous HoYoverse titles) to obtain Master Tapes and Encrypted Master Tapes, which are then used to perform pulls on different banners. There are also Boopons as currency for Bangboo pulls.
There are also in total of 4 different types of banners on launch;Exclusive Channelfor limited-time banners for limited-time characters like Ellen,Stable Channelas the standard banner for characters and w-engines from standard pool,W-Engine Channelfor limited-time W-Engines (weapons), and lastlyBangboo Channelfor Bangboos.
Drop Rates and Pity System
The drop rates and pity system in ZZZ are similar to the ones from other HoYoverse titles,in particular toHonkai: Star Rail.It’s also worth noting that the Pity carries over to the next (limited) banners if players have not reached the pity yet. Here’s what players can expect from each banner type:
Stable Channel Signal Search (Standard Banner)
This banner will have all the characters and W-engines available in the standard poll, with 5-star characters including Nekomata, Lycaon, Soldier 11, Koleda, Grace and Rina.
The first 50 pulls of this banner for 1-time only guarantees players to obtain a random 5-star character from this pool, and these first 50 pulls also will be discounted by 20%, actually making it 40 pulls. After this 5-star character is obtained, the pity system goes back to normal. Additionally, doing 300 pulls on this banner also allows players to select an additional 5-star character of their choice.
Pity System:
Exclusive Channel Signal Search (Limited-Time Character Banner)
Exclusive Channel Signal Search will feature one limited 5-star Agent, as well as rate-up for certain 4-star characters. These banners typically have a 3-week timer, and per patch, players can expect 2 limited-time character banner durations. The drop rates are the same as the Stable Channel Signal Search with the addition of a 50/50 system for the pity.
W-Engine Channel Signal Search (Weapon Banner)
W-Engine Channel is another limited-banner that runs alongside the Exclusive channel, with limited W-Engines that are typically made to be the best-in-slot options for the available limited-character. Drop Rates andPity system are adjusted to be in favor of playersin comparison to character banners, as the drop rates are higher, and both hard pity and soft pity are lower.
An Outstanding Partner (Bangboo Banner)
Bangboo Banner becomes available later than the other Gacha banners. to unlock it, players will need to continue along with the story until they unlock Turbo remodelling shop on Sixth street.
Unlike the previous banner types, this banner utilizes a different resource type than Polychromes, namely Boopons. Boopons are an entirely F2P resource, unlike Polychromes, which can essentially be purchased and converted with real-life currencies. When it comes to Pity and Drop rates, Bangboo Banner is quite similar to W-Engine banner, however there is no 75% chance to obtain as players can simply select the specific Bangboo, and they will have 100% chance to obtain it when they have a S-Rank Signal.
How to Obtain Characters and W-Engines from Signal Search Banners
Signal Search unlocks upon completing the tutorial quest after login into the account. This takes approximately 35-40 minutes.
To maximize your chances of getting desired characters and equipment, it is crucial to understand how to obtain and use Polychromes efficiently, since for the most part this will be the only main source. They can be acquired through several methods such as completing daily missions (errands), participating in limited-time events, completing in-game achievements, advancing through the main story, side quests, and simply progressing in the game. For those willing to spend money, Polychromes can also be bought directly with real money through the in-game shop.
There are also a few tips to keep in mind while pulling for character and w-engine banners:
Zenless Zone Zero
WHERE TO PLAY
Don’t go into the Hollows.I know, I know, there’s Ether in the Hollows, bizarre creations, even heritage of the old civilization, all precious treasures. But don’t forget, there’s also spatial disorder, monsters and mutants running rampant, and ultimately, a disaster that could swallow the world. They are not a place where ordinary people should go.So don’t go into Hollows.Or at least, don’t go in alone.If you insist on getting into danger, go to New Eridu first.This city where the good and the bad mix has many people who need the Hollows: Powerful wealthy tycoons, gangs that stalk the streets, conspiracy nuts, and ruthless officials.Make your preparations there, find strong allies, and most importantly—Find a “Proxy”.Only they can guide people out of the maze-like Hollows.Good luck!
