Data Bounty: Combat Simulation Event Guide
Earn double rewards in Zenless Zone Zero during the Data Bounty event. Learn the duration, buffed cards, and farming tips.
The Data Bounty: Combat Simulation event in Zenless Zone Zero offers a limited window to maximize material gains. For the duration of the event, each successful challenge in Combat Simulation yields double the usual rewards, making this an ideal time to stock up on upgrade resources. Players only need to have unlocked the Combat Simulation mode through Chapter 1 to participate. This guide covers the event schedule, daily buff mechanics, and efficient farming strategies.
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Event Overview
The Data Bounty: Combat Simulation event runs from 2026-07-22 04:00 (server time) to 2026-07-27 03:59 (server time). There are no special quests or separate menus — simply enter Combat Simulation, select any enemy card, and complete the challenge to receive double the normal rewards. This double-drop effect applies to every clear during the event window.
- Requirement: Unlock Combat Simulation (Chapter 1: "Cat's Lost & Found").
- Duration: 5 days (4:00 server reset each day).
- No additional stamina cost beyond the normal 20 battery per run.
Daily Buffed Cards
Each day at 04:00 (server time), five enemy cards receive a buff. These buffs rotate daily and are indicated in the Combat Simulation menu. While the buffs can make some fights easier or harder, the double reward is independent of which card you choose. Focus on cards that you can clear quickly and reliably.
Tip: You do not need to clear buffed cards to receive double rewards — any card works.
Efficient Farming Strategy
1. Prioritize High-Value Stages
Combat Simulation stages cost 20 battery per run and drop various upgrade materials. Since you are limited by battery (polychrome refreshes or time), concentrate on stages whose materials you need most: character EXP, skill upgrade chips, or weapon enhancement materials. The double-drop effectively halves the battery cost per reward.
2. Plan Your Battery Usage
- Natural battery regeneration gives 240 energy per day (1 every 6 minutes).
- You can also use battery charges (the blue cracker items) and polychrome refreshes (up to 6 per day, cost increases).
- For F2P players, using 1–2 polychrome refreshes (60 polychrome each) during this event is efficient because each refresh gives double rewards for 5 runs (instead of 2.5 normally).
3. Build a Fast-Clear Team
Speed matters when farming repeatedly. Assemble a team that can clear your chosen stage in under one minute. Use the following budget-friendly considerations:
| Role | Free-to-Play Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DPS | Anton, Corin | Well-geared, skill level 6+ |
| Stunner | Anby, Ben | Quick stun = faster clear |
| Support | Nicole, Soukaku | Energy recharge and buffing |
If you have premium units like Ellen or Zhu Yuan, they accelerate clears further.
Player Impact & Meta Relevance
This event is purely a farming bonus — no exclusive rewards, no limited-time shop, and no new mechanics. Its value lies entirely in resource efficiency. For players building multiple teams or preparing for future banners, using battery during this window can save several days of farming. If you are caught up on materials, you can skip the event without missing any unique content.
F2P and low-spend players: This is one of the best opportunities to spend polychrome on battery refreshes, as the double-drop effectively doubles your polychrome-to-material conversion rate.
Troubleshooting Common Pitfalls
- Event not showing: Ensure you have completed Chapter 1. Restart the game if necessary.
- Double rewards not applying: Confirm that the event is active (check event banner). Each run should show "Bonus: double rewards" before claiming.
- Battery shortage: Use battery charges first, then consider polychrome refreshes only if you have a surplus or plan to spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the double reward affect all drop types?
A: Yes, all normal drops from Combat Simulation are doubled, including character EXP materials, skill chips, and weapon upgrade items. It does not affect any fixed first-clear rewards.
Q: Can I co-op for faster clears?
A: No, Combat Simulation is single-player only. Build your team to clear quickly.
Q: If I miss a day, can I catch up?
A: The buffed cards rotate daily, but you can still farm any card for double rewards — you do not need to clear the buffed cards. You can run the same stage on multiple days.
Next Steps After the Event
After the event ends on 2026-07-27 03:59 (server time), normal drop rates resume. Use the materials earned to promote characters, level skills, and prepare for upcoming endgame content such as Shiyu Defense. If you have spare resources, consider starting a side project character.
