How to Play Co-Op Multiplayer Zenless Zone Zero 2.5 (January 2026) Guide
The moment Zenless Zone Zero players have been waiting for has finally arrived! Version 2.5 introduces the game’s first-ever co-op multiplayer experience through the Joint Investigation: The Divine Maze event. As someone who’s been following ZZZ since launch, I’m excited to walk you through everything you need to know about this groundbreaking feature that’s set to revolutionize how we experience New Eridu.
This comprehensive guide will cover every aspect of co-op multiplayer in ZZZ 2.5, from basic requirements to advanced Chain Overdrive strategies. Whether you’re a veteran Proxy or just starting your journey, you’ll find everything needed to dominate the Divine Maze with your friends.
Quick Reference Table: ZZZ 2.5 Co-Op Essentials
| Feature | Details | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Event Name | Joint Investigation: The Divine Maze | Inter-Knot Level 20+ |
| Duration | Jan 3-22, 2026 (Server Time) | Complete Main Story Chapter 1 |
| Team Size | 3 Players | Each controls 1 Agent |
| New Mechanic | Chain Overdrive System | Coordinate with teammates |
| Rewards | Polychrome, Titles, Namecard | Participate in event stages |
Understanding ZZZ 2.5 Co-Op: The Big Picture
What Is Joint Investigation: The Divine Maze?
Joint Investigation: The Divine Maze represents HoYoverse’s first step into multiplayer territory for Zenless Zone Zero. This limited-time event serves as both a trial and a public beta for future co-op features. Unlike traditional single-player ZZZ gameplay, this event allows three Proxies to team up simultaneously, each controlling one Agent from a selection of nine available characters.
The event functions as a “public beta” according to community discussions on Reddit, with developers actively seeking player feedback to shape future permanent co-op implementations. This means your participation and feedback could directly influence how multiplayer evolves in ZZZ!
Why This Matters for ZZZ’s Future?
Based on official livestream information, this co-op trial is just the beginning. If player engagement proves strong, we could see comprehensive co-op modes as early as Version 3.0. Mastering these mechanics now gives you a significant advantage when permanent multiplayer features arrive.
Step 1: Meeting the Requirements
Prerequisites You Must Complete
Before diving into co-op action, you’ll need to meet these essential requirements:
- Inter-Knot Level 20 or Higher: This is non-negotiable. If you’re not there yet, focus on daily commissions, weekly missions, and combat simulations. New players should expect to invest 10-20 hours to reach this milestone.
- Complete Main Story Chapter 1 – Intermission: This story completion unlocks the event feature. Make sure you’ve progressed through the main narrative sufficiently.
- Stable Internet Connection: Co-op requires consistent connectivity. Test your connection before attempting challenging stages.
Preparation Timeline
| Task | Time Investment | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Reach Inter-Knot Level 20 | 10-20 hours (new players) | Critical |
| Complete Chapter 1 Intermission | 5-8 hours | Critical |
| Review Chain Attack mechanics | 1-2 hours | Recommended |
| Coordinate with teammates | Ongoing | Recommended |
Step 2: How Co-Op Multiplayer Works in ZZZ 2.5?
Team Formation and Agent Selection
Once you’ve met the requirements, here’s how co-op gameplay functions:
Team Structure: Three players form a squad, with each participant controlling exactly one Agent. This represents a significant departure from single-player ZZZ, where you control an entire team of three characters.
Agent Selection: From nine available characters, each player chooses one Agent. The selection process requires strategic coordination to ensure balanced team composition. Unlike single-player mode, you cannot control multiple Agents.
Role Assignment: With each player controlling one character, strategic role distribution becomes crucial:
- Primary DPS: Your main damage dealer (burst or AoE specialists)
- Support/Secondary DPS: Buff providers, shielders, or additional damage
- Crowd Control: Disablers and controllers for enemy management
The Revolutionary Chain Overdrive System
The most significant mechanical change in co-op mode is the Chain Overdrive system, which replaces the traditional Chain Attack mechanic.
How Chain Overdrive Works?
- Chain Meter: Located in the upper-right corner of your screen, this meter charges when team members expend Energy or perform specific techniques.
- Activation Triggers: Chain Overdrive can be triggered by:
- Stunning enemies
- Applying Anomaly effects
- Entering Chain Time state
- Synchronized Execution: Once the meter is full, all three players can execute a Chain Attack simultaneously, creating devastating coordinated assaults.
Pro Tips for Chain Overdrive Mastery
- Coordinate Anomaly Applications: Time your elemental effects to maximize Chain Overdrive frequency
- Energy Management: Balance between using abilities for damage and saving energy for Chain Overdrive
- Communication: Use voice chat or quick messages to coordinate Chain Overdrive activations
Advanced Combat Mechanics
Revival System
When a teammate falls in battle, you have multiple revival options?
- Healing Link: Approach the fallen teammate to create a revival connection
- Shared Consumable: Special party items can reduce revival time
- Team Revival: The more players participating in revival, the faster it completes
- Spectator Mode: If revival fails, the defeated player enters spectator mode until victory or total defeat
Stage Objectives and Tactics
Each themed stage in the Divine Maze presents unique objectives:
- Ultimate Usage Requirements: Some stages mandate specific numbers of Ultimate ability uses
- Defensive Assists: Certain challenges require coordinated defensive maneuvers
- Time-Based Objectives: Complete stages within specific time limits
Step 3: Optimal Team Compositions for Co-Op Success
Standard Balanced Team Setup
For most co-op challenges, I recommend this balanced composition:
| Role | Character Examples | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Primary DPS | Billy Kid, Nicole | Main damage output |
| Support/Secondary DPS | Zhu Yuan, Soukaku | Buffs, shields, additional damage |
| Crowd Control | Grace, Ben | Enemy control and disruption |
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
For free-to-play players or those with limited character rosters:
- Focus on Anomaly Triggers: Prioritize characters who can consistently apply shock, freeze, or burn effects to facilitate Chain Overdrive activation
- Survivability Building: When playing with less experienced teammates, include healers or durable Agents to prevent team wipes
- Synergy Over Individual Power: Choose characters whose abilities complement each other rather than simply picking the strongest individual units
Advanced Team Strategies
Communication Protocols
Establish clear communication before entering stages:
- Call out Chain Overdrive readiness
- Coordinate ultimate ability usage
- Plan revival priorities
- Assign target focus
Role Adaptation
Be prepared to adapt your role based on team composition:
- Flex DPS: Secondary damage dealers who can step up if primary DPS falls
- Emergency Support: Characters with healing or protective abilities for crisis situations
- Specialized Counters: Agents chosen specifically for stage requirements
Step 4: Rewards and Event Benefits
Confirmed Rewards
Based on information from multiple sources, participants can earn:
- Polychrome: Premium currency for gacha pulls
- W-Engine Energy Modules: Essential equipment upgrades
- Original Chips: Character ascension materials
- Denny: In-game currency
- Exclusive Titles: Two new co-op themed titles
- Event Namecard: Unique profile customization
Long-Term Benefits
Beyond immediate rewards, participating in this event offers:
- Early Multiplayer Experience: Get ahead of the curve for future permanent co-op features
- Meta Insight: Understand emerging team synergies for cooperative play
- Feedback Opportunity: Shape the future of ZZZ multiplayer through your input
- Skill Development: Master new mechanics that may become standard features
Step 5: Common Challenges and Solutions
Technical Issues
Connectivity Problems:
- Ensure stable internet connection
- Verify all players have the same game version
- Use wired connections when possible
Platform Compatibility:
- Cross-platform play is supported but requires consistent patch versions
- Coordinate with teammates on update schedules
Gameplay Challenges
Suboptimal Team Composition:
- Solution: Adjust roles for better balance
- Prevention: Discuss team composition before entering stages
Chain Overdrive Timing:
- Solution: Practice energy management and communication
- Prevention: Establish clear callouts for meter status
Revival Coordination:
- Solution: Designate primary reviver roles
- Prevention: Position strategically to enable quick revivals
Eligibility Issues
If you can’t access the event:
- Verify Inter-Knot Level: Must be 20 or higher
- Check Story Progress: Complete Chapter 1 – Intermission
- Event Timing: Ensure you’re within the January 3-22, 2026 window
Step 6: Future of Co-Op in Zenless Zone Zero
What to Expect After Version 2.5?
Based on developer statements and community analysis:
- Permanent Co-Op Modes: Likely implementation in Version 3.0 or later
- Expanded Features: More complex multiplayer scenarios and game modes
- Enhanced Mechanics: Refined versions of current Chain Overdrive system
- Cross-Platform Integration: Improved multiplayer connectivity across all platforms
Preparing for Future Updates
Stay ahead of the curve by:
- Mastering Current Mechanics: Build skills that transfer to future co-op modes
- Building Diverse Roster: Prepare various characters for different team compositions
- Community Engagement: Join Discord servers and Reddit communities for latest updates
- Feedback Participation: Contribute constructive feedback during this beta phase
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will co-op multiplayer become permanent in ZZZ?
A: While not officially confirmed, developers have indicated this event serves as a trial for future permanent co-op features. Strong player engagement could lead to permanent implementation as early as Version 3.0.
Q: Can I play co-op with friends on different platforms?
A: Yes, cross-platform play is supported, but ensure all players have the same game version and patch installed.
Q: What happens if a player disconnects during co-op?
A: Disconnected players will be removed from the session. The remaining players can continue with AI assistance or may need to restart depending on the stage.
Q: Are there exclusive rewards only available through co-op?
A: Yes, the event offers exclusive titles and namecards that cannot be obtained through other game modes.
Q: How does enemy scaling work in co-op mode?
A: Enemy health and damage scale based on the number of players, but specific scaling factors may be adjusted during the event based on performance data.
Q: Can I use my own built characters in co-op?
A: Yes, you can use your developed characters, but you’ll be limited to one Agent per player from the available selection of nine characters.
Q: Is there a matchmaking system for co-op?
A: Yes, the event includes matchmaking functionality to pair you with other players for co-op sessions.
Conclusion
The Joint Investigation: The Divine Maze event represents a pivotal moment in Zenless Zone Zero’s evolution. As the first step into multiplayer territory, this co-op experience offers both immediate excitement and a glimpse into ZZZ’s future.
Remember, this is more than just a limited-time event—it’s your opportunity to shape the future of multiplayer in Zenless Zone Zero. Your feedback, strategies, and experiences during this beta phase will directly influence how co-op evolves in upcoming versions.
Whether you’re teaming up with longtime friends or making new allies through matchmaking, the Divine Maze promises unforgettable cooperative gameplay moments. Master the Chain Overdrive system, coordinate with your teammates, and dive into the most exciting development in ZZZ’s history.