Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.4 "For the Sun is Set to Die" Launches July 2 with Fate/stay night Collaboration and Major Gameplay Additions
HoYoverse has officially announced that Honkai: Star Rail’s next major update, Version 3.4 titled "For the Sun is Set to Die," will launch on July 2, 2025, introducing a sprawling narrative expansion, new playable characters, and a highly anticipated collaboration with Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works].
Version 3.4 propels players deeper into the lore-rich world of Amphoreus while also opening up a crossover story arc set in Penacony that blends Honkai: Star Rail’s signature storytelling with characters and themes from the Fate/stay night universe. Check out the official trailer for the update down below:
Major Story Progression: The Dawn of the Era Nova
In the heart of the update’s narrative, Phainon joins forces with the Trailblazer to fulfill the final steps of a destiny that could shape the cosmos. Known as one of the earliest Chrysos Heirs to support the player, Phainon becomes a fully playable 5-star character. His battle mechanics are built around “Coreflames,” which when charged, allow him to transform the battlefield and unlock new abilities rooted in Origination, Calamity, and the Foundation Titans. His transformation removes other party members from the field temporarily but leaves their passive bonuses active.
Players will explore Aedes Elysiae in greater depth, witnessing Phainon’s rise from protector to warrior through the Flame-Chase.
Fate/stay night Collaboration Begins July 11
In the crossover event "Sweet Dreams and the Holy Grail War," set in Penacony, the Trailblazer receives an invitation from Old Oti of the Alfalfa Family to participate in a dream-state competition where legendary Servants from Fate/stay night are summoned to assist combatants.
Playable Characters Joining the Roster:
Saber (5-star, Wind, Path of Destruction): Known for her iconic “Excalibur” Ultimate, Saber converts her basic attacks into AOE strikes, builds “Core Resonance,” and gains bonus actions with each surge.
Archer (5-star, Quantum, Path of the Hunt): Excels in single-target burst via “Unlimited Blade Works.” Archer’s skill doesn’t consume a turn while in “Circuit Connection,” enabling extended chained strikes.
Lancer also appears as part of the event’s story but is not currently confirmed as playable.
Players can claim Archer for free simply by logging in starting July 11. His banner and Light Cone will also remain available long-term beyond the event.
Character Banners, Enhancements, and Cosmetics
The following limited characters will return during Version 3.4:
First half: Tribbie, Sunday, Sparkle
Second half: Firefly, Jingliu, Blade
Fan favorites Silver Wolf, Blade, Kafka, and Jingliu will receive significant enhancements, including reworks to Eidolon effects and battle mechanics. Players will also be able to toggle between classic and enhanced combat modes to better suit individual playstyles.
Additionally, Firefly will debut her new outfit "Spring Missive," giving players new cosmetic customization options.
Quality of Life Improvements
Version 3.4 brings long-requested improvements:
Skip Dialogue Feature: Now players can control the pace of narrative scenes.
Return of Minigame Origami Bird: Offering a more casual diversion within the main game.
Star Rail’s Ongoing Success
Honkai: Star Rail continues to break records:
- 150 million downloads across all platforms
- Winner of Apple’s iPhone Game of the Year, Google Play’s Best Game, and The Game Awards’ Best Mobile Game
- Rated Teen by the ESRB and PEGI 12 in Europe
Now available on PC, iOS, Android, Epic Games Store, and PlayStation 5, Honkai: Star Rail shows no signs of slowing down. With Version 3.4 launching July 2 and the Fate/stay night collaboration beginning July 11, the cosmic RPG continues to blend high-stakes storytelling, anime nostalgia, and cutting-edge gameplay into one of the most successful mobile titles in the world. Will you be joining in it?
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