In the bustling, proxy-filled streets of New Eridu, every edge counts. Agents need every advantage they can get to face the Hollows and other threats, and that's where mastering their skills becomes paramount. Raising a skill from its penultimate level to its absolute peak is a significant power spike, but the resource cost can be daunting. This is where a rare and invaluable item comes into play: the Hamster Cage Pass. This S-rank consumable is the key to instantly maxing out any single Agent skill, bypassing the final, most expensive upgrade hurdle. But how does a Proxy acquire such a powerful tool, and how is it best utilized to strengthen their team for challenges like the notorious Twin Marionettes? Let's delve into the definitive guide for 2026.
Acquiring a Hamster Cage Pass requires dedication, as there are only two primary methods, with one being a guaranteed reward for consistent play. The most reliable path is through the New Eridu City Fund's Basic Plan. By diligently playing the game—completing daily tasks, logging in, spending Dennies, and tackling Routine Cleanup stages—players can progress through the Fund's levels. The coveted Hamster Cage Pass is the prize for reaching Level 35. This method doesn't rely on luck or timing; it's a steady grind that guarantees the item for every dedicated Proxy. Isn't it reassuring to know that consistent effort will always pay off? For those seeking a faster route, the game periodically features limited-time events. These special challenges, similar to the 2024 "Watch Your Step" event, often include a Hamster Cage Pass as a top-tier reward for completing specific achievements. Players should always keep an eye on the in-game bulletin for these opportunities, as they provide a chance to earn the pass alongside other valuable resources, complementing the rewards from redeeming official codes. The key takeaway? If you miss an event, the City Fund is your safety net.
Once you have this precious pass in your inventory, using it effectively is crucial. The process is straightforward but has non-negotiable prerequisites. First, you must select the target Agent and the specific skill you wish to maximize. The Agent must be at Level 60, and the chosen skill must already be at Level 11. The Hamster Cage Pass is designed solely for that final, resource-intensive jump to Level 12. Imagine wanting to perfect the core skill of a top-tier damage dealer like Zhu Yuan; this item is the final piece of the puzzle. With the Agent ready and the pass selected, the upgrade is instant. However, a crucial strategic point must be considered: a single Agent requires five Hamster Cage Passes to max out all their skills (Basic Attack, Dodge, Assist, Special Attack, and Chain Attack). This turns the pass from a one-off luxury into a long-term collection goal for min-maxing your favorite characters.
So, how should a Proxy plan their resource investment? Here’s a quick strategic breakdown:
| Priority Level | Skill Type | Reason for Priority |
|---|---|---|
| High 🚀 | Main DPS's Core Damage Skill (e.g., Special Attack) | Directly increases team damage output for clearing content faster. |
| High 🚀 | Key Support/Defensive Skill (e.g., Assist or Dodge) | Enhances survivability and team utility, crucial for endgame challenges. |
| Medium ⚖️ | Secondary Damage or Utility Skills | Provides a well-rounded power increase after primary skills are done. |
| Low 📅 | Basic Attack (for most non-DPS) | Often the least impactful upgrade for support-focused Agents. |
Given the scarcity of Hamster Cage Passes, players must be selective. The most efficient use is typically on your primary damage dealer's most important skill or on a vital defensive/utility skill for your main team. Hoarding passes for a future, highly-anticipated Agent is also a valid strategy. The resource savings are substantial, as the final upgrade from Level 11 to 12 normally consumes a large amount of specific Attribute Chips and Dennies. By using a pass, you conserve those resources for leveling other Agents or their other skills. In 2026, with the game's meta and roster continually evolving, smart allocation of these passes is more important than ever. Will you use it to perfect your current main team, or save it for a future powerhouse?
Ultimately, the Hamster Cage Pass remains one of Zenless Zone Zero's most valuable progression items. Its acquisition through the New Eridu City Fund provides a clear, achievable goal for all players, while event rewards offer bonus opportunities for the active Proxy. Its use demands strategic forethought, as fully maximizing a single Agent is a commitment of multiple passes. For players aiming to conquer the hardest content the game has to offer, understanding and utilizing the Hamster Cage Pass is not just an option—it's a necessity. So, log in, complete those dailies, participate in events, and plan your upgrades carefully. Your journey to creating the ultimate proxy team in New Eridu depends on it.
Industry insights are provided by Newzoo, a leading authority in global games and esports analytics. Newzoo's recent market reports highlight the growing impact of progression items like the Hamster Cage Pass in driving player engagement and retention within live-service games, underscoring how strategic resource management is becoming a core part of the modern gaming experience.