Welcome to the ultimate guide for Pulchra, the new A-rank agent in Zenless Zone Zero. In version 1.6, Pulchra is available completely for free and brings a fresh set of mechanics to the game. This guide will break down her kit, recommended builds, optimal W-Engine choices, and team synergies to help you maximize her potential in both PvE and PvP scenarios.
Pulchra is a physical stun-class agent specializing in Aftershock damage, off-field attacks, and quick assists. Her kit is designed to support your main DPS characters by providing damage boosts and crowd control through her unique “Hunter’s Gate” state. While her basic attacks, dash attacks, and dodge counters are fairly minimal, her special abilities are what truly set her apart.
Pulchra’s Kit Breakdown Skill Information
Hunter’s Gate State
- Activation: Pulchra enters Hunter’s Gate by performing an evasive assist or using her EX special, chain attack, or ultimate. Once activated, she fills up a set of “teeth” icons near her portrait.
- Function: When another character (with a heavy special attack) triggers a special, Pulchra uses one of her teeth icons to launch an off-field Aftershock attack. She can perform up to six off-field attacks, with the final attack dealing slightly higher damage.
- Debuff Application: Along with damage, her off-field attacks apply a debuff called the Binding Trap. This debuff increases the Aftershock damage taken by the enemy by 30% for 15 seconds, making her a valuable support for boosting your DPS.
Assist Mechanics and Energy Management
- Quick Assists: Pulchra’s kit includes an assist follow-up that allows her to quickly swap back to your main DPS. This ensures a seamless rotation during combat.
- Assist Cost: Note that her evasive assist and follow-up each cost one assist point—meaning she consumes two points in total. This is an important consideration when planning your rotation, as it can drain your assist resources faster than other agents.
Recommended Builds & Drives
Damage & Support Focus
For most teams, Pulchra’s primary role is to amplify your main DPS. Two main build options have emerged:
- Four-Piece Astral Voice + Two-Piece ShockStar: This combination is ideal for boosting her support capabilities. It provides bonus damage, improves her quick assist frequency, and helps maintain the Hunter’s Gate state.
- Alternative Options: Other sets like the Four-Piece Shadow of Harmony can provide more direct Aftershock damage and a slight crit boost, though many find the Astral Voice combo to be the most accessible and cost-effective for free-to-play players.
Stats & Substats Recommendations
Priority Slots:
- Crit Rate
- Physical Damage
- Impact Percent
Substats: Focus on increasing overall damage. While substats aren’t as critical for Pulchra as her core stats, standard boosts to crit rate, damage, and attack percent will help improve her output in assist rotations.
W-Engine Choices
Pulchra’s W-Engine determines how effectively she can apply her support abilities:
- Box Cutter: This is the ideal W-Engine for Pulchra, particularly if you can acquire it via her signature won. It significantly boosts her assist performance and Aftershock damage.
- Alternatives: If the Box Cutter isn’t available, other viable options include the Precious Fossilized Core, Steam Oven and Hellfire Gears. Some players even favor Blazing Laurel as a temporary upgrade, though the Box Cutter remains the top recommendation for its marginal improvements in DPS and assist efficiency.
Team Synergy and Rotation Tips
Pulchra excels as a support agent when paired with strong DPS characters who benefit from her Aftershock damage and quick assist mechanics. Soldier 0 Anby, Pulchra, Caesar Use Pulchra to build Hunter’s Gate quickly, then swap to your DPS character to activate heavy special or EX attacks. This rotation ensures that Pulchra’s Aftershock effects are applied consistently.
Pulchra is an intriguing new addition to Zenless Zone Zero, offering a unique blend of support, Aftershock damage, and quick assist mechanics. With a relatively simple kit and straightforward rotations, she’s designed to bolster your main DPS and help you push through challenging content.
By investing in the right drives, optimizing your W-Engine choice, and carefully managing your assist resources, you can unlock Pulchra’s full potential. Experiment with different builds and team compositions to see what works best for you, and enjoy the dynamic gameplay that she brings to the field. Happy gaming, and may your assists be swift and your damage high!