Honkai: Star Rail
7.5User Rating
1 ratings
OpenCritic
Strong
IGDB
Players
OpenCritic Score
Score Distribution
"Those issues aren't directly related to the core of Star Rail, however, which shines as brightly as any of the celestial bodies it tasks players with visiting. The quality of content at launch is, quite simply, incredible - it really looks, feels, and plays like a live service game that has already been out for years. Its turn-based combat might, tragically, not be for everyone, even in spite of its depth of tactics and highly customizable loadouts. That should be something everyone decides for themselves, however. Honkai: Star Rail is a must-play 2023 release that could very well become the next big thing in live service games, and will, if nothing else, become one of the better RPG releases in recent memory."
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About Honkai: Star Rail
Honkai: Star Rail is a turn-based strategy RPG developed by HoYoverse that landed on PC, PlayStation 5, Android, and iOS back in April 2023. You play as a passenger aboard the Astral Express, traveling across various planets to solve mysteries while battling enemies in space. The game features a sci-fi setting with anime aesthetics and a story driven by distinct characters known as Trailblazers. It builds on the reputation of its predecessor series but shifts focus from action combat to tactical grid-based encounters. Players manage a party of up to four heroes, each with unique skills and elemental abilities designed for strategic depth rather than reflexes.
Gameplay
Battles happen on a hexagonal grid where you rotate turn order based on speed stats. You select commands for your squad like attacking, using skills that cost energy, or breaking enemy weaknesses to stun them. Between fights, you explore 3D environments on the Astral Express hub or walk through detailed planet zones to find resources and lore entries. A typical session involves clearing a level, managing resin-like stamina to farm materials, and pulling for new characters in the gacha system. The controls are straightforward with mouse and keyboard or controller support, letting you queue up skill rotations without real-time pressure. You also engage in side activities like farming currency or customizing your avatar.
What Players Think
The data shows strong approval from critics with a 90.48% recommendation rate on OpenCritic and an average score of 82.9 from IGDB reviewers. GamingBolt gave it 90, praising the fun free-to-play loop despite gacha mechanics, while PC Gamer called it an impeccable title with killer visuals. Community moods remain positive as players grind for resources to build teams around specific synergies. Average playtime suggests heavy engagement, though completion rates vary based on investment in pulling characters. The game currently sits at rank 55 on Twitch, proving it holds steady viewership. Players frequently discuss team compositions and event strategies in forums, indicating a dedicated user base that actively engages with the content.
PlayPile's Take
This title works best for players who enjoy tactical turn-based combat over action-heavy adventures. The free-to-play model is generous enough to see through most content, but pulling specific characters can be costly if you want top-tier builds. You should check your wallet before spending real money on the gacha banners since some units are essential for harder stages. With 80+ achievements available, there is plenty to do if you enjoy optimizing teams and farming materials. It is a solid choice for RPG fans who prefer planning moves over twitch reactions, though patience is required to progress through the endless content updates.
Game Modes
Single player, Multiplayer
IGDB Rating
82.9
RAWG Rating
3.9
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26Achievements
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