As Version 3.4 approaches, miHoYo has officially disclosed details of the in-depth collaboration between Honkai: Star Rail and the classic IP, Fate/stay night. In addition to the new original 5-star character Phainon, this update will also welcome popular characters Saber and Archer to a limited-time banner. Here is the core information and analysis known so far.
▍Version 3.4 Schedule
Estimated Version Launch Time
NA Server: July 1, 2025 (UTC-5)
EU/Asia Servers: July 2, 2025 (UTC+1 / UTC+8) Based on the game's standard six-week update cycle, the version is expected to launch globally on July 2.
Fate Crossover Banner Availability
Start Time: July 11, 2025 (UTC-5)
End Time: At the end of Version 3.6 (Specific date to be announced by officials)
Free Archer Collection Window From July 11, 12:00 (Server Time) until the end of Version 3.6, players can log in to the game to claim Archer for free. After the collection period, Archer will only be obtainable through the gacha banner and will no longer be available for free.
▍Version Banner Character Details
Phainon
Path & Type: Physical, Path of Destruction
Design & Background: A new original character, Phainon wears silver-white armor and wields a double-edged greatsword. She is rumored to have executed numerous high-difficulty annihilation missions on the frontier. Beneath her cold exterior lies a devotion to justice.
Skill Expectations: Expected to focus on high single-target damage and defense break. A smooth transition between normal and charged attacks will allow for stable output against high-resistance enemies. Combined with the Path of Destruction's strengths, she is poised to become a cornerstone for pure physical DPS.
Saber
IP & Design Features: From Fate/stay night, this version features a modified design with black stockings. It retains the classic blonde hair and holy sword elements but integrates the futuristic, sci-fi aesthetic of Star Rail into the attire and details.
Path & Type: Wind, Path of Destruction (5★)
Combat Style Prediction: Primarily a melee, single-handed sword user with surprising Wind-element combos and armor-piercing thrusts. Her skill set is expected to balance burst damage with mobility, allowing for quick battlefield entry and high-frequency damage. Her "Destruction" Path might also include AoE stuns or debuffs, enhancing team control.
Archer
Path & Type: Quantum, Path of the Hunt (5★)
How to Obtain: Free limited-time login reward + Crossover banner
Character & Skill Set: His new art, featuring a red cloak and dual pistols, echoes his Quantum Hunt Path. According to player leaks, his skills will use an "Imbibitor Lunae-style" energy consumption mechanic:
1 Energy Point: Single-target basic attack, leaning towards precise sniping.
2 Energy Points: AoE diffusion attack, increasing coverage.
3 Energy Points: Full-field AoE damage for instant clearing.
Skill multipliers are expected to increase with energy consumption, making him a flexible and versatile DPS in both open-world and instance-based content.
▍Banner Mechanics & Pull Strategy
Independent Pity System The Fate crossover banner will have a completely separate pity count from standard banners. Players can use their Special Passes and standard Star Rail Passes without worrying about affecting pity on other banners.
Strategy Recommendations
Prioritize the free Archer: Simply log in to get him, a zero-cost collection.
Use Special Passes rationally: If you aim to collect both crossover characters, budget your Special Passes accordingly and watch for official "rate-up" announcements.
Consider rerun potential: Although described as a long-term event, it is not permanent. It's unknown if it will have a rerun, so players should weigh their options.
▍Be Fully Prepared for the Epic Crossover!
The Version 3.4 crossover between Honkai: Star Rail and Fate/stay night not only introduces a cross-IP character showcase but also features flexible adjustments to the gacha mechanics. Don't forget to stock up on Stellar Jades and resources in advance to unlock limited items and more surprises!
