Zenless Zone Zero: What to expect and how to sign up for the second closed beta of this new HoYoverse game

Zenless Zone Zero's second closed beta will provide testers with a good look at how the game will play ahead of its expected release next year.

The second closed beta, Equalizing Test, will allow players to further explore some game content updates. (Photo: HoYoverse)
The second closed beta, Equalizing Test, will allow players to further explore some game content updates. (Photo: HoYoverse)

HoYoverse, the developer of popular games like Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail, has recently announced the second closed beta of its upcoming free-to-play urban fantasy action role-playing game, Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ).

We have already been given a preview at the Tokyo Games Show last September and at HoYofest 2023.

Furthermore, the game will make an appearance in Hoyofest in Singapore, which will take place at the Anime Festival Asia, where participants can play a demo of the game.

But there’s even more exciting news on the horizon, as the game comes back to closed beta with a slew of modifications and content updates, including new tales and explorable regions, more playable characters, redesigned combat systems, and a completely revamped city with new, immersive urban gameplay.

Belobog Heavy Industries to be featured in the new closed beta

A new chapter on Belobog Heavy Industries will be featured in the second closed beta. (Photo: HoYoverse)
A new chapter on Belobog Heavy Industries will be featured in the second closed beta. (Photo: HoYoverse)

In the closed-beta test, privileged participants will have the chance to embark on a fresh chapter that shines a spotlight on Belobog Heavy Industries. However, don't confuse this with the city of Belobog from Honkai Star Rail; this is one of the factions within ZZZ.

Belobog Heavy Industries is a rising star in New Eridu's industrial landscape, specializing in infrastructure and construction machinery. They hold a patent for "specialized heavy machinery for work within Hollows" and boast a team of certified Hollow Investigators. Their track record includes successfully completing advanced projects in extreme Hollow disaster environments, earning them a reputable status in the industry.

Rumour has it that Belobog Heavy Industries had their moments of glory, but a significant setback dimmed their achievements. Now, under Koleda's leadership, they are determined to regain their former glory. While they deal with cold steel daily, their organization maintains a welcoming atmosphere that leaves their competitors green with envy.

Playable characters from this faction are Anton, Ben, Grace, and Koleda.

Players get a better look at the Proxy Network

Players will be able to understand the Proxy Network, otherwise known as Inter-knot, better. (Photo: HoYoverse)
Players will be able to understand the Proxy Network, otherwise known as Inter-knot, better. (Photo: HoYoverse)

Players can also expect to get a better look at the Proxy Network, also known as the Inter-Knot, and play either Belle or Wise, Proxies that carry out missions.

Players can even play mini-games at the arcade with their friends during the closed beta. (Photo: HoYoverse)
Players can even play mini-games at the arcade with their friends during the closed beta. (Photo: HoYoverse)

Some new immersive gameplay mechanics will allow players to explore the bustling Sixth Street, play mini-games in the arcade, pet cute animals, and take missions that will guide others in exploring the Hollows.

New Playable Characters available

Three new characters will be introduced to New Eridu in this round, each with their distinct history and personality. Although not much was shared in this regard, based on the website, it’s possible that they will be characters from Section 6, Victoria Housekeeping Co., or the new unannounced faction.

Perfect Assist and Hollow Zero to be available to players of various experience levels

The upcoming version of the game’s closed beta will be more accessible to those unfamiliar with action games thanks to improvements made to the impact and rhythm of fighting animations and the addition of the new Perfect Assist system.

It also has a whole new difficulty level called Hollow Zero, which is not only an important part of the plot but also provides an engaging and satisfying fight for seasoned action game gamers.

How to sign up for the closed beta

So, if you’re excited to know more and get your hands on the game, here’s how you can sign up for the second closed beta, also known as the Equalizing Test:

  1. Check out the signup page in the ZZZ site here.

  2. Select the "Sign up now" option.

  3. Log in using your HoYoverse credentials if you already have one. If you don't already have one, take the steps to set one up.

  4. A pop-up window will appear, asking you to choose the platform for the test. Choose the platform/s you will use.

  5. Tick the box to indicate that you have read and agreed to the disclaimer.

  6. A new pop-up window will appear, asking you to participate in a survey. Take the time to read the terms and conditions before you begin.

  7. To begin the survey, click "Start now" after reading the terms and conditions. This survey should take no more than ten minutes to complete.

  8. After completing the survey, you will get a notification stating that HoYoverse will contact you if you are chosen to join in beta testing.

  9. There are also other activities on the website that will allow you more chances to win some awesome prizes, like following the official ZZZ accounts or participating in the web event.

While HoYoverse has yet to provide an official release date for ZZZ, the announcement of the second closed beta points towards the game being released some time next year.

For reference, Honkai: Star Rail's second closed beta test was held between May and June 2022 and its final closed beta test was held back in February ahead of its official release in April.

For more details about ZZZ, you can check out the official here. To check the device requirements for testers, you can also click here.

Anna is a freelance writer and photographer. She is a gamer who loves RPGs and platformers, and is a League of Legends geek. She's also a food enthusiast who loves a good cup of black coffee.

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