Honkai: Star Rail is set to launch its Version 3.4 update, “For the Sun is Set to Die,” on July 2, 2025. This update introduces a range of new content, including fresh playable characters, story developments, and a notable collaboration with Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works]. The turn-based RPG from HoYoverse continues to expand its universe, following the Trailblazer and their allies as they face pivotal moments that could shape the fate of the galaxy.
With Version 3.4, players will see the long-awaited debut of Phainon as a playable character, alongside the introduction of Saber and Archer through a crossover event. These additions come with their own unique mechanics and offer more variety for both veteran and new players. The collaboration ties into the game’s ongoing trend of blending popular anime franchises with its ever-expanding story, providing familiar faces for fans of both series.
- New Playable Characters:
- Phainon: A key story figure from Aedes Elysiae, joins the Trailblazer’s team. His abilities focus on accumulating “Coreflames” and transforming in battle, offering utility by increasing the team’s Technique Point cap and defeating normal enemies instantly with his Technique.
- Saber (Fate/stay night): A 5-star Wind-type, following the Path of Destruction. Her Ultimate, “Excalibur,” is an area attack, and she can gain extra actions through Core Resonance. Saber will be available as part of the special collaboration event.
- Archer (Fate/stay night): A Quantum-type Path of the Hunt character, specializes in sustained single-target damage and can chain multiple Skill uses in a turn. His Ultimate, “Unlimited Blade Works,” is a nod to the anime, and he can provide team utility through follow-up attacks and Skill Point restoration. Archer will be available for free during the collaboration event window (starting July 11, until the end of Version 3.6).
- Major Story and Event Content:
- Continuation of the main story, focusing on the dawn of the Era Nova and Phainon’s backstory.
- Special crossover event “Sweet Dreams and the Holy Grail War” set in Penacony, featuring a Holy Grail War with seven participants and historical figures summoned as Servants.
- The Fate/stay night collaboration officially begins July 11, adding new story content and playable characters.
- Character Banners and Updates:
- Popular characters Tribbie, Sunday, and Sparkle return in the first half; Firefly, Jingliu, and Blade in the second half of the update.
- Silver Wolf, Blade, Kafka, and Jingliu receive notable enhancements to their skills and Eidolons, with the ability to switch between classic and enhanced combat modes.
- Firefly receives a new outfit, Spring Missive.
- Quality of Life Improvements:
- Introduction of a long-requested “skip dialogue” feature, allowing players to control the story pacing.
- The return of the Origami Bird minigame.