Hello, Trailblazers! The Honkai: Star Rail dev team is buzzing with excitement as we prepare to roll out version 2.7, titled “A New Venture on the Eighth Dawn,” launching December 4. This marks the final chapter before the Astral Express sets its course for Amphoreus, famously known as the Eternal Land. As we wrap up our adventures in Penacony, we’re already laying down the tracks for what version 3.0 will bring.
In our last story arc, the enigmatic Black Swan nudged the Crew towards Amphoreus. This place is so shrouded in mystery that even Akivili, the Aeon of the Trailblaze, couldn’t make it there. Navigating these unknown waters, Himeko, ever the cautious Navigator, is on a mission to gather all the information she can about this mysterious land. Meanwhile, the Crew is preparing for one final pitstop in Penacony to catch up with old pals and make some lingering memories before they dive into their next big adventure.
### Old friends taking center stage once more
The memory of taking a bow at the Penacony Grand Theater feels as fresh as yesterday. It’s not just the Astral Express that’s emerging from slumber; Sunday is, too. Sharing that stage with Mr. Sunday again is a heartfelt moment. Once the chief of the Oak Family, Sunday has decided to “Descend to the mortal realm and walk their lands. See what this world is truly like.” He’s shedding the blessings of both Harmony and Order to chase after his dream of a perfect world, now just as a fellow traveler. Returning to Penacony with the clandestine Pepeshi, Wonweek’s, help, his aim is to offer an unforgettable final performance and then set off on his new path. His disguise with a robe and hood isn’t just for flair; it’s to keep his identity under wraps for his grand farewell on the Planet of Festivities.
Sunday’s not just any new face in the lineup. As a 5-star Imaginary character, he really shines with his supportive prowess. His skill lets an ally jump straight into action, boosting their DMG output. If that ally has a Summon, both their moves get a turbo boost, further cranking up the DMG effects. When he launches his Ultimate, he regenerates energy for a buddy, turning both that pal and their Summon into ‘The Beatified.’ They get a halo, which makes their CRIT DMG skyrocket.
Our next character in the lineup is Fugue, who is better-known to seasoned players as Tingyun. Once a clever foxian girl, she’s now grappling with having her name, looks, and identity tampered with. Despite the mark of Destruction tugging at her, fate has thrown her a lifeline. Tingyun’s brush with danger in version 1.2’s main storyline left her hanging by a thread, but she was saved by Madam Ruan Mei from the Genius Society, giving her a second shot at life. Himeko and Welt paid Madam Ruan Mei a visit recently and are set on helping Miss Tingyun find her way home, reviving her voyage to where her heart belongs.
Fugue stands out as a 5-star Fire character, showing off her knack for helping an ally cut down Toughness, regardless of enemy weaknesses. While she’s in the fray, enemies struggle under the Cloudflame Luster state. Once the Cloudflame Luster hits zero, the target gets hit with Break DMG again. Plus, when allies go after Weakness Broken targets, they deliver some serious Super Break DMG. Fugue can even use her Technique to enhance allies’ Break Effect. When she unleashes her Ultimate, she showers all enemies with Fire DMG, ignoring Weakness Types to slice through all enemies’ Toughness.
Also making a return in version 2.7’s warp event are the 5-star characters General Jing Yuan and Firefly in the first and second halves, respectively. Their powerful supporting skills make them crucial allies for whatever lies ahead.
### More gameplay features in version 2.7 and beyond
Version 2.7 isn’t just about new characters and stories; it’s also about enhancing the overall Trailblazer experience. You’re invited aboard the Astral Express’ spanking new Party Car, where class meets nostalgia. With its roomy reception, sleek marble bar, and a robot bartender straight out of a classic novel, guests can sit back with a drink, catch up with the Express Crew, or simply let the panoramic views of the Cosmos whisk them away into contemplation.
Head upstairs, and you’ll see the Trailblazer’s cozy quarters. Through the Cosmic Home Décor Guide event, you’ll have the chance to transform a simple storage room into your own celestial sanctuary, piece by piece, starting with a comfy bedroom and bathroom setup. Collect furniture using Express Funds earned from missions, and watch your space evolve alongside your adventures among the stars.
Excitingly, the Relic system is getting a refreshed update in version 3.0. You’ll now have the power to select a Relic’s Main Stat and Subsidiary Stats, thanks to some brand-new tools introduced with this update. Use a generous amount of this shiny new item, Wishful Resin, combined with Self-Modeling Resin, and you can craft both Main and Sub Stats for any Relic simultaneously.
And before we sign off, Pom-Pom made a fantastic discovery while clearing out the Trailblazer’s storage boxes! From the onset of version 2.7 until the curtain falls on version 3.2, Trailblazers can snag a Gift of the Express, letting them pick a regular 5-star character of their dreams. Our voyage continues with cherished friends and new allies, side by side, ready for action!
That’s our little peek into version 2.7. Be prepared, because there’s more to unveil soon. I hope you’re ready because when version 2.7 launches on December 4, our old comrade Herta, the mastermind behind the renowned Herta Space Station, will be all set for the escapades waiting down the road.
