Buzz
Honkai: Star Rail, a fantasy space RPG produced by Hoyoverse, is set to be globally released on April 26, 2023.
At first glance, it's hard not to compare Hoyoverse's new offerings with the 'masterpiece' Genshin Impact. Indeed, initial impressions of Honkai: Star Rail evoke a somewhat similar feel to Genshin Impact. Both feature beautifully designed characters, captivating anime-style cutscenes, and immersive storytelling. Both games support PC and mobile platforms including iOS/Android. However, Honkai: Star Rail offers a completely different gameplay experience, particularly in how players interact with the environment.
The combat mechanics are the most noticeable difference between Honkai: Star Rail and Genshin Impact. Honkai: Star Rail offers turn-based combat with the Action Time Battle system. A list of action orders alongside the screen displays the sequential order of characters in battle.
Essentially, players have multiple ways to gain an advantage in the action order. They can target enemy weak points with appropriate attacks and delay their movements. Moreover, players can use freezing skills to immobilize enemies or unleash Ultimate power whenever they seize the action opportunity. Maximizing action order utilization is the decisive factor in intense life-or-death battles.
Battles in Honkai: Star Rail are meticulously crafted. Players need to strategize to fight against bosses. The 2x Speed mode and Auto-Battle feature greatly assist players. On the other hand, those who seek the thrill of real-time action combat may not be satisfied with Honkai: Star Rail's battles.
Moreover, Honkai: Star Rail lacks a ranking element, following the recent trends in Hoyoverse. Consequently, competitive players may feel let down, while those seeking a relaxed solo experience won't view this as a flaw.
Honkai: Star Rail brings forth a fresh storyline. The game follows a group of pioneering space travelers aboard the Astral Express, a flying train traversing through space, aiding those they encounter in battles against various crises - a narrative blending science fiction and fantasy in an intriguing manner.
The storyline of Honkai: Star Rail revolves around adventures, battles against evil, and sharing precious moments with teammates. Companions fight alongside the main character and play vital roles in side missions.
The narrative of Honkai: Star Rail delivers a gentle and somewhat humorous feel. Players often find themselves off guard and chuckling at witty dialogues while interacting with objects like trash cans or streetlights. The story perfectly aligns with the introductory tagline in the previous launch trailer: 'A space comedy film.'
Hoyoverse hasn't transformed Honkai: Star Rail into another open-world game akin to Genshin Impact. Instead, the game utilizes a linear map with some branches. Several intriguing puzzles can alter the map, and shortcuts can be found throughout the game.
Although Honkai: Star Rail's map scale doesn't rival Genshin Impact's grandeur, the game still encourages users to explore every nook and cranny. Treasures guarded by formidable foes with hidden subplot stories await discovery within each map.
The game lacks multiplayer functionality. Unlike Genshin Impact, players cannot join the world of others in Honkai: Star Rail. Instead, the game offers a different support feature. Each player can designate one of the characters (usually opting for the strongest or favorite character) as a 'support character.' Subsequently, the support character can assist other players in specific battles, and the supporting player will receive rewards for doing so.
Continuing in anime style, Honkai: Star Rail has broken free from the action RPG brand label of HoYoverse and brought forth a surprisingly fresh and exciting experience. This is an excellent choice for players seeking RPG gaming experiences or those fond of anime graphics in the HoYoverse style.
