How to get free Zhao in Zenless Zone Zero 2.5? S-Rank Ice defense claim guide & best teams

Small but powerful S-Rank agent!

Hello proxies! Enjoying the new Zenless Zone Zero 2.5? Have you claimed the new free S-Rank Ice Defense agent, Zhao, or not?

This might be the time to get this S-Rank agent for free. HoYoverse’s generous 2.5 patch (“To Be Fuel for the Night”) includes this support powerhouse from the start until the finish of 2.6 (no quests required).

Players can easily pair up with Ye Shunguang for Ether Veil buffs and Crit synergy in the team. Let’s check out more details in this article.

🎁Zhao EP – "Tiny Giant" | Zenless Zone ZeroFollow @ZZZ_EN and share this post with "ZHAO IS FREE" for a chance to win a Sheepboo Vinyl Plush Keychain Surprise Box!Tiny but mighty, so watch me glow!Like me? Whatchu like in me?>>> Event PrizesSheepboo Vinyl Plush Keychain… pic.twitter.com/OrcflmSGvi

— Zenless Zone Zero 🎉Season 2🎉 (@ZZZ_EN) December 26, 2025

Step-by-Step: Claim free Zhao in Zenless Zone Zero 2.5

Just follow these steps for free claim:

• Update your game to version 2.5 and then log in to your account.
• The pop-up will appear immediately. Hit claim and watch her full animation.
• Now, she is ready to be a part of your roster.

New Player Requirements (hit these first):

• Grind up and reach level 5.
• Make sure to complete the Main Story Prologue: “The Hare and the Proxy”.
• Now, you will unlock the events tab.

Is free Zhao worth it? Team synergy & playstyle

HoYoverse has provided a free S-Rank agent in Zenless Zone Zero 2.5. But the main question is whether she is good or not?

She shines as an Ice Defense support. Good heals, buffs to allies and amps Ether Veil for Ye Shunguang’s DPS bursts.

Her Crit bonuses grow with her HP, so stack them for maximum team strength. The best team consists of Ye Shunguang (carrier), Zhao (buffer/healer), and the flexible Anomaly trigger.

Here are some pros and cons for Zhao:

Pros

• Free S-Rank forever.
• Ye hypercarry godsend.
• Future-proof (Ether Veil meta?).

Cons

• HP-scaling limits non-Ye teams (4-stars better).
• Niche outside Phase 1.

What are your thoughts on this cute little S-Rank agent in Zenless Zone Zero 2.5? Have you tried her out yet? Do share your thoughts and views with us in the comments section.

FAQs

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