Guide to New Character "Tsukishiro Ryu" in "Zero Zone" 1.3: Mechanics, Team Suggestions, and More

In the first half of version 1.3 of "Zero Zone," the electric anomaly character "Tsukishiro Ryu" has been introduced. Ryu enhances chaos damage and adds extra chaos damage, making him a pivotal member of any chaos team. Notably, he is the first character capable of switching stances using his special skill. Players looking to build a chaos-focused team should definitely consider pulling for Ryu, especially as he synergizes well with the previous character, Bernice. However, those who haven't managed to pull him can wait for upcoming ether anomaly characters, as Ryu can still effectively complement lower-tier teammates and pure electric teams until new characters are released.

Right from 0+0, Ryu can be utilized effectively. There are several alternatives for his sound engine, meaning the cost of integrating him into your team isn't prohibitively high. If you're looking to maximize damage, you might want to hold off for later character releases that complement him. In the latter half of the banner, Light can decrease ice and fire resistance, providing options for ice teams alongside Aileen or the upcoming character, Seimei. Players with limited resources should carefully weigh their options between Ryu and Light.

Mechanics Breakdown

Ryu’s primary mechanic revolves around his special skill (E skill), which allows him to execute a forward slash that increases his resistance to interruption during the action, followed by a stance switch. This switch toggles between two stances: the upper stance enhances his electric damage and improves resistance to interruption during basic attacks, while the lower stance increases penetration and the break level of basic attacks. Each stance's buffs can stack and last for 8 seconds after switching.

Notably, only the third to fifth hits of his normal attacks carry the electric attribute. The optimal damage output is achieved by performing a charged normal attack followed by the E skill, allowing players to bypass the initial two hits of the physical attack. Additionally, using dodge counters, quick support, support strikes, and finishing moves can seamlessly link to the third hit of the current stance, facilitating rapid combos.

Advanced Techniques

Ryu's E skill can also be activated by tapping or holding down the button, though this may feel less fluid as it resets the attack sequence. When the special skill is enhanced (by holding E after accumulating enough energy), Ryu performs a forward thrust followed by a descending attack that grants him invincibility during the strike. Hitting an enemy grants Ryu a 15-second buff that significantly boosts his electric damage.

Furthermore, if Ryu's enhanced special attack hits an enemy under a status anomaly, it triggers a special chaos effect called Polar Chaos, dealing 15% of the original chaos damage and applying additional damage calculated from Ryu's high anomaly mastery. This effect is particularly potent when paired with another high-level anomaly character in the team, allowing for strategic triggering of dual chaos effects.

Prioritizing Skill Points

When leveling up Ryu, prioritize core skills, special skills, and ultimate skills, followed by support skills and dodge techniques. For instance, focusing on core skills enhances his overall damage output and effectiveness in battle.

Character Synergy

In terms of team composition, the ideal setup includes Ryu, Bernice, and Lina. If Bernice is unavailable, alternatives like Caesar, Seth, Nicole, or Lucy can fill in. While these characters do have considerable field time, they may slightly reduce overall damage output. For a pure electric team, players might consider combinations like Ryu with Seth (or Caesar) and Lina, or Ryu with Qingyi and Lina to maintain competitive damage.

Sound Engine Recommendations

For the sound engine, viable options include the free dual star "Cry of Twins" and "Electric Lipstick" from the monthly card, both of which can enhance gameplay significantly. Even without the exclusive weapon, there are sufficient alternatives available to maintain effectiveness in combat. Players should consider their options carefully based on their current team composition and the skills they wish to enhance.

Driving Disc Suggestions

When selecting driving discs, prioritize combinations like 4 Chaos Jazz + 2 Free Blues or the reverse, depending on which attributes are more beneficial. In pure electric teams, a 4 Thunder Metal setup is only recommended if you can achieve an 80% shock coverage rate. The selection of sub-attributes should primarily focus on anomaly mastery, attack power, and penetration.

In summary, Tsukishiro Ryu is a versatile and powerful addition to any chaos team. Players wanting to dive into chaos gameplay should definitely consider acquiring him. While a lower-tier version of Ryu can still be effective, those with limited resources will need to make thoughtful choices regarding future characters like Light and Seimei.