I've done a little research based on my own experiences with this game. I do believe Epic MegaGames and Renaissance drew inspiration from the anime/manga series "Area 88" when they created it.
To me this is evident both in the similarities of its name ("Zone" is a synonym for "Area", and 66 and 88 are both multiples of 11), and the artistic design of its main character (the eyes do appear to be slightly manga-esque. From the little I've seen of the character's hair, it could be blond, like that of Area 88 protagonist Shin Kazama; the hairstyle is even similar).
If any of you have seen Area 88, please tell me if you agree.
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