How to enable (and use) manual chain attacks

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How to Enable (and Use) Manual Chain Attacks in Zenless Zone Zero

Why should you use manual mode?

Chain attacks have always been a central part of the combat experience in Zenless Zone ZeroIt’s a unique take on the tag mechanics commonly seen in fighting games, but adapted for a PvE action RPG environment.

The new additions in Zenless Zone Zero 1.1 Patch is the ability to enable or disable chain attacks. Switching to manual allows players to make the most of their DPS windows. Using manual mode takes some getting used to and if you accidentally enable this feature, you can always disable it. Here’s how.

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How to Enable (and Use) Manual Chain Attacks in Zenless Zone Zero

Option to toggle Chain Attack modes in Zenless Zone Zero

When you first start the game, you can choose between Automatic and Manual Chain Attack modes. However, if you prefer either mode, you will need to Other tab in the options menu. At the top of the list, you’ll see the Chain Attack Mode option. Simply select the option you want here, then return to the game as normal. You can do this at any time, even when you’re in the middle of a fight.

In Auto mode, chain attacks are triggered automatically when you hit an enemy with a heavy attack after filling up their stun meter. If you’re not sure what counts as a heavy attack, here they are:

The final blow of your basic attack combo
Evasive maneuvers
Quick help
Support with follow-up measures
Special attacks
EX Special Attacks

To prevent chain attacks from being triggered in manual mode, you must Hold down the attack or special attack button whichever you hit, the opponent hits. This allows you to continue your combo and keep the opponent dazed for longer. This can be a little tricky with characters like Lycaon or Qingyi since the inputs on both are tied to holding down the attack button. You can get around this by pressing and holding the attack button again while they are in the middle of the animation.

Why should you use manual mode?

Ellen triggers a chain attack in Zenless Zone Zero

Choosing between Auto and Manual Chain Attack modes largely depends on player preference. Some players may want to constantly chain attacks on stunned enemies, while others prefer to experiment with combos that would otherwise be interrupted by chain attacks.

In addition, there are some cases where using a chain attack can result in a DPS loss. For example, there are Zenless Zone Zero Characters like Ellen with EX Special Attacks that have multiple moves in a combo. Chain attacks can prevent her from using the Sharknami portion of her EX Special Combo, potentially costing players a few precious seconds of DPS.

Other characters like Anby can launch enemies into the air, giving them the ability to juggle combos that can help build up decibels and energy for the entire team while keeping the affected enemy suspended. Without automatic chain attacks to get in your way, you can pull off some stylish combos that, while not entirely practical, make the game more fun.