In the upcoming version 2.0 of Zenless Zone Zero, Ellen, the game's first limited-time character, is set to receive significant enhancements. Let's delve into the specifics of these upgrades and assess Ellen's new standing post-enhancement.
I. Areas of Enhancement
1. Additional Ability and Core Passive Enhancements
Additional Ability Adjustment: Previously, Ellen's additional ability activated when there was a squad member sharing the same Attribute or Faction, granting her a 30% Ice DMG boost. Post-enhancement, the activation condition expands to include any squad member with the "Annihilation" role, enhancing team composition flexibility.
Core Passive Expansion: Ellen's core passive, "Sharp-Toothed," initially increased CRIT DMG by 100% for her Charged Scissor Strike and Ice-infused basic attacks. The enhancement extends this CRIT DMG boost to include her Chain Attack, Ultimate, and new basic attacks: "Frost Edge" and "Ice Blade Wave," significantly amplifying her overall damage output.
2. Integration of "Frost Edge" into Ellen's Skill Set
"Frost Edge," originally exclusive to the Hollow Zero mode, is now incorporated into Ellen's regular combat repertoire. This skill triggers automatically after executing the third hit of her basic attack, the second phase of her enhanced special attack "Sharknami," dodge counters, and assist follow-ups. It delivers area-of-effect Ice damage and reduces enemy defense, with its CRIT DMG further amplified by Ellen's core passive.
3. Introduction of New Skill: "Ice Blade Wave"
"Ice Blade Wave" is a new basic attack skill that can be activated following a Charged Scissor Strike, the third hit of her basic attack, dodge counters, or quick assists. It consumes two Flash Freeze Charges and seamlessly transitions into the third hit of her basic attack combo, effectively replacing the first two hits. This modification accelerates Ellen's attack sequence and reduces vulnerability during combat.
4. Enhanced "Charged Scissor Strike"
The "Charged Scissor Strike" now grants Ellen immunity to damage and accelerates charge time when under enemy attack. This enhancement improves the fluidity of her attack sequences and reduces the risk of interruption.
5. Improved Team Composition Flexibility
Previously, Ellen's optimal performance was contingent on specific team compositions, often requiring characters like Lycaon or Soukaku to activate her additional ability. With the revised activation condition accommodating any "Annihilation" role character, players can now pair Ellen with a broader range of teammates, such as Lycaon, Ben, or the new character Zhu Yuan, without compromising her effectiveness.
II. Ellen's Post-Enhancement Standing
The enhancements to Ellen's skill set and passive abilities substantially elevate her combat capabilities:
Mechanics: The introduction of "Ice Blade Wave" streamlines her attack combos, allowing for quicker damage output and improved survivability through increased invincibility frames.
Damage Output: The expansion of her core passive's CRIT DMG boost to additional skills, coupled with the incorporation of "Frost Edge," significantly amplifies her damage potential.
Team Synergy: The relaxed conditions for activating her additional ability enhance team-building flexibility, enabling more diverse and effective squad compositions.
While Ellen may not surpass the latest character Yinlin in raw power, these comprehensive enhancements position her as a formidable top-tier DPS character. It's worth noting that Ellen will not be featured in version 2.0's character reruns, so only players who previously acquired her can capitalize on these improvements.
Conclusion
Ellen's enhancements in version 2.0 address previous limitations in her kit, offering improved damage output, survivability, and team composition flexibility. Players who have Ellen in their roster can look forward to a revitalized and powerful combat experience.