Zenless Zone Zero features a dynamic gacha system where Polychromes serve as the essential in-game currency for acquiring new agents through banner pulls. The unpredictability inherent in the system makes accumulating this resource a primary goal for players aiming to secure their favorite characters. While obtaining Polychromes can be a challenging endeavor, the game provides a diverse array of methods, ranging from consistent free-to-play activities to direct purchases for those seeking immediate results. This guide will explore the various pathways to amassing Polychromes, ensuring players can maximize their pulls in the ever-evolving landscape of New Eridu.
📊 Comprehensive Methods for Earning Free Polychromes
For players operating on a budget, Zenless Zone Zero offers numerous rewarding activities that do not require monetary investment. These methods, while sometimes time-consuming, provide a substantial and steady flow of Polychromes.
Daily and Routine Activities
Daily Errands: The most consistent method involves completing simple daily tasks. By filling the Engagement bar through actions like logging in or purchasing a coffee, players can earn 60 Polychromes daily, alongside Inter-Knot Credits. It’s crucial to manually claim these rewards from the Errands Tab (accessible via F2) to ensure they are received.
Inter-Knot Level Progression: Leveling up your Inter-Knot Level is a primary source of valuable resources. Each milestone grants rewards, including Polychromes, Denny, and Ether Batteries. Key activities to boost your level include:
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✅ Completing Main Story and Side Quests
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✅ Finishing daily and weekly Errands
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✅ Discovering Missing Mini Cargo Trucks hidden throughout the city
Engaging with Core Game Modes
Hollow Zero: This challenging game mode is a treasure trove of Polychromes. Players can earn approximately 80 Polychromes for the first-time completion of each unique battle stage. Furthermore, leveling up your Hollow Zero License Level at multiples of three or five also grants Polychrome rewards.
Commissions: The city is filled with various commissions categorized as Story, Combat, Exploration, and Rally. These missions, acquired by interacting with NPCs or checking your DMs, reward Polychromes upon completion and are excellent for both resource farming and world-building.
Special Events and Limited-Time Activities
Time-Sensitive Events: The developers periodically release special, limited-duration events that offer bountiful rewards. Participating in these events is highly recommended, as they often provide the most efficient Polychrome yields during their active periods.
VR Training: After progressing through the first chapter, a VR device becomes available in the Random Play Shop. This mode hosts Agent Cooperation exercises and combat tutorials. Each completed challenge not only hones your combat prowess but also rewards Polychromes and other useful items.
Arcade Mini-Games: For a change of pace, the Arcade offers a series of entertaining mini-games. Participating in activities like New Eridu’s Gold Finger can yield Polychromes. Keep an eye out for occasional limited-time events within the Arcade for extra rewards.
Miscellaneous and One-Time Sources
Proxy Handbook Tutorials: Accessed via the Workbench in the Random Play Store, the Proxy Handbook contains all in-game tutorials. Reading through tutorials marked as “New” from start to finish grants a one-time reward of free Polychromes.
Commission Log Rewards: Located near the TV in the Random Play Store, the Commission Log allows players to claim Polychrome rewards. This requires having found the perfect video footage during previous Commission missions, adding a layer of collection and completionism.
Character Demos: With each new banner rotation, trial runs for featured characters become available. Simply participating in and completing the demo for the featured five-star agent rewards Polychromes and upgrade materials.
Scratch Cards: A pure luck-based activity. Visiting Howl’s Newsstand grants a free scratch card. Scratching off the NXN section can reveal rewards of up to 40 Polychromes, offering a quick, albeit random, potential boost.
💳 Purchasing Polychromes: Fast-Track Options
For players seeking immediate access to Polychromes without the grind, Zenless Zone Zero provides straightforward purchasing avenues. These methods are designed for convenience and speed.
Direct Currency Exchange: The primary method is through the Monochrome Market. Here, players can purchase Monochromes using real-world currency. These Monochromes can then be directly exchanged for Polychromes at a set rate, providing instant funding for banner pulls.
Battle Pass (New Eridu City Fund): The game’s battle pass system, accessible from the main menu, offers a tiered reward structure. It features three distinct plans:
| Plan Type | Cost | Key Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Plan | Free | Limited items, some upgrade materials |
| Growth Plan | Paid | Polychromes, Encrypted Master Tapes, various milestone rewards |
| Premium Plan | Paid | Enhanced rewards, including larger Polychrome bundles and exclusive items |
The paid Growth and Premium Plans are particularly valuable, as they distribute Polychromes and Encrypted Master Tapes consistently as players progress through the battle pass milestones, offering great value over time.
🔄 Strategic Summary for 2026
As of 2026, the core methods for acquiring Polychromes in Zenless Zone Zero remain robust, with developers occasionally introducing new events and modes that offer additional avenues. A balanced strategy combining daily free activities with strategic participation in limited-time events remains the most effective approach for free-to-play users. For those willing to invest, the battle pass consistently offers the best value for money, blending Polychromes with other essential resources. Ultimately, whether through diligent farming or direct purchase, understanding these systems is key to building a powerful and diverse agent roster in the chaotic world of New Eridu.