HoYoverse, the creative minds behind Honkai: Star Rail, have recently unveiled their plan to enhance characters from the standard banner before focusing on those from limited editions. This decision comes amid discussions about the game’s shifting dynamics as new characters consistently make a splash. The introduction of Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.0 has significantly altered the gameplay landscape, raising concerns about balance, which developers are keen to address by revamping older characters sooner rather than later.
Honkai: Star Rail boasts a roster of 64 playable characters, including alternate Path iterations like March 7th and the Trailblazer. Initially, characters such as Inmibitor Lunae and Jingliu were hailed as top damage dealers. However, the spotlight soon moved to newer DPS characters that emerged post-Version 2.0. The developers are aware of this imbalance and have hinted at rectifications. Recent leaks indicate that certain characters will be prioritized for reworks ahead of others.
A standout piece of information from GalaxyLeak suggests that characters from the standard banner will receive attention before their limited counterparts. This aligns with HoYoverse’s announcement about impending major buffs for older Honkai: Star Rail characters. Although staple support units like Bronya and Gepard maintain their strength, there’s been a longstanding player demand for enhancing limited 5-star characters like Seele and Blade. Since the standard banner includes seven characters frequently acquired by players, especially those who have faced setbacks in limited banner pulls, developers might be keen on giving these units a boost.
Another intriguing leak hints at Seele, a fan-favorite from Belobog, potentially receiving a new skin in the summertime. The skin system, introduced in Version 3.0, opens up possibilities for various beloved characters to don new looks in upcoming patches. Since Seele hasn’t graced the limited banner since Version 1.4, the speculation surrounding her new skin suggests she might make a highly anticipated return in an upcoming patch. Expect Version 3.1 to roll out in late February, with a special livestream unveiling planned for February 14.
The phenomenon of newer characters overshadowing older ones isn’t new to live service games. They’re continuously challenged with integrating stronger enemies and content. Recently, the Remembrance path was introduced in Honkai: Star Rail, promising more characters of this type that are set to shake up the game’s meta. An example worth noting is the character Aglaea, a formidable DPS carrier, who has made her mark in these changing tides.
With HoYoverse aiming to maintain a lively and equitable game environment, Honkai: Star Rail players are in for exciting times ahead as they navigate these strategic changes and connect with the ever-evolving universe.
