HoYoverse just shared a ton of new info during the For the Sun is Set to Die Special Program Livestream. Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.4 launches on July 2, 2025, bringing a new story arc, a playable Phainon, and the long-awaited Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works] crossover.
Saber and Archer are both joining the roster. The best part is that Archer will be free for anyone who logs in during the event. Whether you are here for the new characters or ready to dive deeper into the Era Nova storyline, this update looks like a big one.
Here’s a closer look at what’s coming in Version 3.4, from new characters and events to returning favourites and gameplay updates.
New Characters and Collab Event Details
Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.4 brings three new playable characters: Phainon, Saber, and Archer. Phainon joins the Trailblazer not just in the story, but also in battle. He’s a powerful dps character who can transform using Coreflames to enter a new combat form. While transformed, he fights solo with enhanced abilities, and allies still provide passive effects in the background.
The Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works] crossover kicks off on July 11. Saber and Archer both become playable during this event. Saber is a five-star Wind character who follows the Path of Destruction. Her Ultimate, Excalibur, hits all enemies and powers up her basic attacks. If she builds enough Core Resonance, she can get an extra turn and hit even harder.
Archer is a five-star Quantum character following the Path of the Hunt. He’s all about single-target damage and can keep attacking as long as he has Skill Points. His Ultimate activates Unlimited Blade Works, and he gains charges that trigger follow-up attacks when allies act. Starting July 11, you can unlock Archer for free just by logging in.
Story and Gameplay Updates
The main story picks up right where things left off. Phainon and the Trailblazer are working together to return the final Coreflame to the Vortex of Genesis. As the truth behind Amphoreus begins to unfold, it becomes clear that the Era Nova is about to begin. You’ll travel deeper into Aedes Elysiae to learn more about Phainon’s past, his role in the Flame-Chase, and the weight he carries as a Chrysos Heir.
The crossover event comes with its own storyline too. Called Sweet Dreams and the Holy Grail War, it’s set in Penacony and features a special competition with seven summoned Heroic Spirits. Alongside the Trailblazer, characters like Aventurine, Boothill, and Robin will all take part. The event mixes action, surprises, and a few unexpected pairings.
This version also brings quality-of-life improvements. You’ll finally be able to skip dialogue, letting you set your own pace when going through the story. The Origami Bird minigame is back too, adding something light to do between missions.
Returning Characters and Free Archer Details
Several fan favourites are returning in Version 3.4. Tribbie, Sunday, and Sparkle will be featured in limited banners during the first half of the update. In the second half, Firefly, Jingliu, and Blade will rotate in. On top of that, Silver Wolf, Kafka, Blade, and Jingliu are getting combat and Eidolon enhancements. You’ll also be able to switch between classic and enhanced combat modes for more flexibility.
Firefly is getting a new outfit this version too. Called Spring Missive, it gives the Stellaron Hunter a fresh look to go along with the latest updates.
The Fate/stay night collaboration starts on July 11, and that’s when you can claim Archer for free. He’ll be available to everyone who logs in during the event window, which runs through the end of Version 3.6. Both Saber and Archer will also appear in their own character and Light Cone banners, and those will remain available long-term once the collab begins.
Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.4 Opens a New Chapter and Brings Worlds Together
Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.4 launches on July 2, with the Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works] event following on July 11. Between new story content, playable characters, returning banners, and long-awaited improvements, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Whether you’re jumping back in for the collab or continuing your Trailblazer’s journey, this update looks packed with reasons to log in.
You can also play Honkai: Star Rail in the cloud — check out our guide to playing it on any device via cloud gaming here.
Will you be summoning for Saber, trying out the new combat updates, or grabbing that free Archer? Let us know what you’re most excited about.
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