HoYoverse has confirmed that the next major update for Zenless Zone Zero, Version 2.6: Encore for an Old Dream, is scheduled to launch globally on 6 February 2026. This update serves as an interlude chapter following the conclusion of Season 2, shifting the narrative focus back to the Sixth Street setting.
The update coincides with the in-game “Gilded Carrot Day” festivities. While New Eridu is decorated for the holidays, the narrative will see the Phaethon siblings undertaking an urgent commission regarding an illegal intelligent entity. This storyline involves a renewed partnership with Jane Doe and leads players to the 404 Error music venue. Here, the plot centers on the debut live performance of the idol group Angels of Delusion.
Version 2.6 introduces members of the Angels of Delusion as playable characters. These agents introduce a new mechanic where they can perform coordinated attacks.
- Sunna (S-Rank Physical Support): Sunna focuses on empowering Attack and Anomaly teammates. She is accompanied by a unit named Bubblegum, which applies a “Cat’s Gaze” mark to enemies. Detonating this mark deals damage and grants Attack buffs to the squad. Her Ultimate involves a heavy hammer strike that triggers a Quick Assist.
- Aria (S-Rank Ether Anomaly): As the group’s lead vocalist, Aria utilizes two forms known as “construct form” and “idol projection.” She specializes in inflicting high burst damage on enemies already suffering from Attribute Anomalies and is designed for head-on combat.
- Biggest Fan (Bangboo): The group is supported by their fan club president, a Bangboo unit that restores HP and can boost squad Attack if two or more Angels of Delusion members are in the team.
New outfits will be available for Sunna and Aria, with Aria’s costume reflecting her dual-form design. Additionally, the update will feature returning banners for S-Rank agents Yixuan (Auric Ink – Rupture) and Yuzuha (Physical – Support).
The primary event for this version is “A Harmony of Delusions.” This mode places Proxies in the role of backstage staff for the idol group. Gameplay involves managing training schedules and social media presence, alongside rhythm-based challenges and an expanded Marcel Adventure that includes new maps.
Additional changes are also coming to the Hollow Zero game mode with the introduction of “Operation Matrix”. This permanent addition features:
- Weekly rotating themed stages with unique mechanics.
- Team compositions requiring three Primary agents, one Bangboo, and one Auxiliary agent.
- New Resonia and agent-specific Gears to alter strategic approaches.
- A new Sweep function to streamline progression.
To mark the Gilded Carrot Day celebration, players can participate in an Inter-Knot Membership event to earn Polychromes through daily activities and login rewards, totaling 3,300 Polychromes. From 14 February 2026 to 23 February 2026, a separate event titled “Gilded Surprise, Wonderful Boo-ns” will offer daily lucky draws from a prize pool of 4 billion Polychromes. Optimizations for agents Lycaon and Harumasa have been implemented in this patch, and a new outfit for Pan Yinhu will be obtainable via a limited-time event.
Zenless Zone Zero Version 2.6 will be available on all supported platforms, including the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, iOS, and Android.
