In the ever-evolving meta of Zenless Zone Zero, Pulchra continues to be one of the most versatile A-Rank Physical Stun Agents two years after her release. Her ability to inflict Daze from off-field through her unique Aftershock mechanic makes her an invaluable asset in many team compositions, especially with the recent combat system adjustments from the 3.2 update.
Originally a member of the Vanquishers who opposed the Sons of Calydon during the infamous Tour de Inferno, Pulchra's allegiance shifted after Caesar claimed the title of Overlord of the Outer Ring. Her complex backstory has been further explored in the recent "Echoes of Inferno" event, adding layers to her already intriguing character.
What Makes Pulchra Special in 2025?
Pulchra's greatest strength lies in her ability to assist the party even when not actively on the field. Her signature Hunter's Gait effect, applied through her EX Special Attack, enables her Aftershock mechanic to trigger attacks while she's benched. This makes her exceptionally valuable in teams that frequently rotate between Agents - a strategy that has become increasingly popular in the current meta.
The key to maximizing Pulchra's potential is understanding how to build her properly and which team compositions best leverage her unique skill set.
Optimal W-Engine Selection
When selecting a W-Engine for Pulchra, prioritize options that enhance her Daze application capabilities. W-Engines with Impact as a secondary stat will significantly improve her performance. Here are the top choices in 2025:
| W-Engine | Rank | Effect | Recommendation Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box Cutter | A-Rank | After launching an Aftershock attack, increases Physical damage by 15% and Daze by 10% for 10 seconds. | ★★★★★ |
| Hellfire Gears (2025 Version) | S-Rank | When off-field, increases Energy Regen by 0.8 per second. When using an EX Special Attack, increases Impact by 12% for 12 seconds, stacking up to 2 times. | ★★★★☆ |
| Six Shooter | A-Rank | Gains 1 Charge stack every 3 seconds, up to 6 stacks. When using an EX Special Attack, consume all Charge stacks to increase the skill's Daze by 4% for each stack. | ★★★★☆ |
| Precious Fossilized Core | A-Rank | When the enemy's health is above 50%, deal 10% more Daze to them. If the enemy's health is above 75%, this bonus increases by an additional 10%. | ★★★☆☆ |
| Nexus Catalyst (New 2025) | S-Rank | Increases off-field damage by 18% and grants 15% Impact bonus when triggering Aftershock effects. | ★★★★★ |
The recently released Nexus Catalyst has quickly become a fan favorite, competing directly with Pulchra's signature Box Cutter. For players who don't have access to either of these premium options, the Six Shooter remains an excellent budget-friendly alternative.
Drive Disc Optimization
Best Drive Disc Sets
| Set | Effect | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow Harmony (4-pc) | Increases Aftershock damage by 20%. Each Aftershock hit increases ATK by 4% and Crit Rate by 2% for 8 seconds, stacking up to 3 times. | Primary Choice |
| Shockster Disco (2-pc) | Increases Impact by 15%, boosting Pulchra's Daze application. | Excellent 2-pc Option |
| Resonant Echo (2-pc) (New 2025) | Increases off-field damage by 18%. | Strong Alternative |
For maximum performance, a 4-piece Shadow Harmony set remains Pulchra's best option, though the new Resonant Echo set introduced in 2025 provides an interesting alternative when paired with a 2-piece Shockster Disco.
Drive Disc Stat Priority
| Disc Slot | Main Stat | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Crit Rate | Essential |
| 5 | Physical DMG | Essential |
| 6 | Impact | Essential |
For substats, focus on:
-
Crit DMG (25%+ ideal)
-
Crit Rate (until 75% total)
-
ATK% (15%+ ideal)
-
Energy Recharge (10%+ beneficial)
Skill Upgrade Priority
Since Pulchra functions primarily as an off-field support, her skill upgrade priority should be:
-
Core Skill (Aftershock mechanism)
-
Special Attack (Hunter's Gait application)
-
Chain Attack (Daze and damage contribution)
-
Assist (team utility)
-
Basic Attack (minimal on-field time)
-
Dodge (minimal on-field time)
Her Core Skill and Special Attack are absolutely critical to upgrade first, as they directly enhance her off-field capabilities.
People Also Ask
Q: Does Pulchra work well with the new S-Rank Agent Valeria?
A: Yes! Valeria's ability to extend buff durations synergizes exceptionally well with Pulchra's Hunter's Gait effect, allowing for longer Aftershock uptime without switching back to Pulchra as frequently.
Q: Is Pulchra worth building in 2025's meta?
A: Absolutely. Despite being an A-Rank Agent, Pulchra continues to offer unique utility that even newer agents haven't replicated. Her off-field Daze application remains valuable in many team compositions.
Q: What's better for Pulchra: high Impact or high Attack?
A: While both are important, prioritize Impact if you're using her primarily for Daze application. If you want her Aftershocks to deal significant damage, balance both stats with a slight emphasis on Attack and Crit values.
Team Compositions for 2025
Budget-Friendly Team
| Agent | Rank | Type | Role | Synergy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pulchra | A-Rank | Stun | Off-field Support | Core off-field Daze applicator |
| Nicole | A-Rank | Support | Sub-DPS | Energy generation, healing |
| Corin | A-Rank | Attack | Main DPS | On-field damage dealer |
| Booressure | A-Rank | Bangboo | Support | Team buff with single Support |
This accessible team remains effective even in 2025, with Pulchra providing consistent off-field support while Corin handles the main damage duties. Nicole's recent adjustment has improved her energy generation, making this team even smoother to play.
Premium Hypercarry Team
| Agent | Rank | Type | Role | Synergy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soldier 0 Anby | S-Rank | Attack | Main DPS | On-field hypercarry |
| Pulchra | A-Rank | Stun | Sub-DPS | Off-field Daze and damage |
| Astra | S-Rank | Support | Off-field Support | Chain Attack enabler |
| Knightboo | A-Rank | Bangboo | Support | Energy and ATK buff |
This team focuses entirely on maximizing Soldier 0 Anby's damage output, using Pulchra and Astra as off-field supporters. The 2025 balance patch significantly improved Anby's damage scaling with Daze, making Pulchra an even more valuable teammate.
New Meta Team for 2025
| Agent | Rank | Type | Role | Synergy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valeria | S-Rank | Attack | Main DPS | New physical hypercarry |
| Pulchra | A-Rank | Stun | Off-field Support | Extended Aftershock uptime |
| Rina | S-Rank | Support | Buffer | ATK and CRIT buffs |
| Sparkboo | S-Rank | Bangboo | Support | Enhanced Chain Attack damage |
This cutting-edge composition leverages the new Agent Valeria's buff extension mechanics with Pulchra's Hunter's Gait, creating an unprecedented uptime for Aftershock effects. When combined with Rina's offensive buffs and Sparkboo's Chain Attack enhancements, this team can devastate even the most challenging New Eridu Hollow content.
Conclusion
Two years after her introduction, Pulchra remains a remarkably flexible and powerful addition to many team compositions. Her unique ability to contribute from off-field continues to carve out a special niche for her in the Zenless Zone Zero meta. Whether you're a F2P player looking for accessible power or a veteran min-maxing your roster, Pulchra delivers consistent value that few other A-Rank Agents can match.
With the upcoming "Shadows of Calydon" content expansion rumored to feature more enemies susceptible to Stun effects, Pulchra's stock may rise even further in the coming months. Her connection to Caesar and the Sons of Calydon might also lead to interesting story developments.
What do you think about Pulchra's position in the current meta? Has she earned a permanent spot on your team, or do you find other Stun Agents more effective for your playstyle? Share your experiences and team compositions in the comments below! 🎮✨