Honkai Star Rail 4.0 Release Date (March 2026) Everything You Need To Know
Honkai Star Rail 4.0 “No Aha at Full Moon” is launching soon, bringing the exciting new world of Planarcadia, game-changing Elation Path characters, and massive content updates. As a dedicated Trailblazer, you’ll want to know exactly when servers go live, maintenance schedules, and how to prepare for this monumental update. I’ve gathered comprehensive information from official sources and top gaming sites to bring you everything you need to know about Version 4.0’s release.
| Region | Release Date | Release Time | Maintenance Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asia (UTC+8) | February 13, 2026 | 11:00 AM | 06:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| NA West (PST) | February 12, 2026 | 08:00 PM | 03:00 PM – 08:00 PM |
| NA East (EST) | February 12, 2026 | 10:00 PM | 05:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Europe (CET) | February 13, 2026 | 04:00 AM | 11:00 PM – 04:00 AM |
| Australia (AEDT) | February 13, 2026 | 02:00 PM | 09:00 AM – 02:00 PM |
HSR 4.0 Release Date & Time Details
After extensive research from official sources and top gaming sites, I can confirm that Honkai Star Rail Version 4.0 “No Aha at Full Moon” will officially launch on February 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM (UTC+8). However, due to time zone differences, North American players will actually get access on February 12, 2026.
The maintenance period is scheduled for 5 hours, starting at different times depending on your region. Based on my analysis of multiple sources including Game8 and Beebom, the maintenance could end 1-2 hours early, so keep checking official channels for real-time updates.
Pre-download Schedule & Storage Requirements
Pre-download starts February 12, 2026, at 02:00 PM (UTC+8), giving you plenty of time to prepare. However, you’ll need substantial storage space:
- PC: 12.7 GB download (recommend 15 GB free space)
- Mobile (Android/iOS): 4.9 GB download (need 8 GB temporary space for decompression)
I highly recommend starting the pre-download early as servers may experience heavy traffic. The update introduces the entire new world of Planarcadia, making it one of the largest content updates in HSR history.
New Characters in Version 4.0
Version 4.0 introduces two groundbreaking characters following the new Elation Path:
Yao Guang (5-Star – Physical – Elation Path)
- Release: Available immediately when 4.0 launches
- Banner Duration: February 12/13, 2026 – March 24, 2026 (entire version)
- Featured 4-Star Characters: Pela, Hanya, Qingque
- Signature Light Cone: “When She Decided to See”
- Path Introduction: First character to utilize the Elation Path, focusing on follow-up attacks and synergy-based damage
Sparxie (5-Star – Fire – Elation Path)
- Release: Phase 2 (March 3, 2026)
- Banner Duration: March 3, 2026 – March 24, 2026
- Featured 4-Star Characters: Pela, Hanya, Qingque
- Signature Light Cone: “Dazzled By A Flowery World”
- Special Features: Fire element with unique Elation Path mechanics
Rerun Banners Schedule
Phase 1 (February 12/13 – March 3, 2026)
The Indelible Coterie banner features:
- Evernight (Ice-Remembrance)
- Hysilens (Physical-Nihility)
- Black Swan (Wind-Nihility)
Phase 2 (March 3 – March 24, 2026)
The Indelible Coterie banner features:
- Cerydra
- Rappa
- Sparkle
Planarcadia: The New World
Version 4.0 introduces Planarcadia, a completely new world that represents a major narrative shift in Honkai Star Rail. Based on official trailers and livestream information, Planarcadia features:
Key Locations
- Duomension City: The main hub area
- Dovebrook District: Commercial and social area
- Graphia Academy: Educational institution with lore significance
- World’s End Tavern: New social gathering spot
Gameplay Features
- Multi-level map exploration with verticality
- Unique enemy factions specific to Planarcadia
- New environmental puzzles and mechanics
- Expanded cosmic lore and story elements
- Creative visual design distinct from previous worlds
The Elation Path: New Combat System
Version 4.0 introduces the Elation Path, a completely new combat system that emphasizes:
- Follow-up Attack Enhancement: Characters trigger bonus follow-up attacks
- Synergy-Based Damage: Team composition becomes more crucial
- Creative Team Building: Rewards unconventional strategies
- Multi-Hit Mechanics: Different from traditional DPS roles
This new path could significantly impact how players define the best characters and team compositions going forward. Both Yao Guang and Sparxie showcase different aspects of the Elation Path, giving players multiple strategic options.
New Events and Game Modes
Version 4.0 brings several exciting events:
Major Events
- Cosmicon, Roll On!: Main story event
- Ding! Arcadia Fun-Time Clock-In Essentials: Daily login event
- Gift of Arcadia: Reward event
- A Flip of Fortune: Gacha-style event
- Novaflare: Combat challenge event
Returning Events
- Gift of Odyssey: Standard reward event
- Planar Fissure: Relic farming event
- Realm of the Strange: Resource farming event
New Relics and Items
New Relic Sets
- Diviner of Distant Reach: Designed for Elation Path characters
- Ever-Glorious Magical Girl: Support-focused set
New Items
- The Fluffy Hand-drawn Storyboards: Event currency
- The Fluffy Serialization Memorial Issue: Collection item
- The Fluffy Collector’s Edition: Premium reward
- Dreamweave Steel: Ascension material
- Lucid Awl: Enhancement material
- Grit of Strife: New currency type
- Resin of Valor: Event reward
- Lance of Retribution: Combat item
- Thunder Strum: Special material
New Boss: @SparxiConOfficial
Version 4.0 introduces a new boss encounter featuring @SparxiConOfficial, likely tied to Sparxie’s story and the Elation Path mechanics. This boss is expected to showcase the new combat systems and provide challenging content for endgame players.
Maintenance Compensation
As with every major update, HoYoverse provides compensation for the maintenance period:
- Compensation: 300 Stellar Jades
- Eligibility: All players with Trailblaze Level 4 or above before maintenance begins
- Claim Method: Delivered via in-game mail after update release
- Expiration: Must be claimed before Version 4.0 ends (March 24, 2026)
Make sure to log in and claim your Stellar Jades promptly, as they cannot be reclaimed once expired.
Version 4.0 Duration and Timeline
Based on HoYoverse’s consistent six-week patch cycle:
- Start: February 12/13, 2026
- End: March 24, 2026
- Total Duration: Approximately 6 weeks
- Phase 1: February 12/13 – March 3, 2026
- Phase 2: March 3 – March 24, 2026
Preparation Guide for Version 4.0
Before Maintenance
- Complete Daily Activities: Finish all daily missions and use Trailblaze Power
- Claim Current Rewards: Don’t let any time-limited rewards expire
- Organize Inventory: Clear space for new items and materials
- Save Stellar Jades: Prepare for new character and Light Cone banners
During Maintenance
- Start Pre-download: Begin downloading as soon as available
- Follow Official Channels: Stay updated on Twitter and Reddit for early completion news
- Plan Your Pulls: Decide between Yao Guang and waiting for Sparxie
- Join Community Discussions: Participate in theorycrafting and strategy planning
After Update
- Claim Compensation: Get your 300 Stellar Jades immediately
- Explore Planarcadia: Begin the new story content
- Test New Characters: Try out Elation Path mechanics
- Participate in Events: Start new events for maximum rewards
Platform-Specific Information
PC Players
- Pre-download available through launcher
- Recommended specs may increase due to new world complexity
- Graphics settings for Planarcadia may require adjustment
Mobile Players
- Ensure sufficient storage space before download
- Consider using Wi-Fi for the 4.9 GB download
- Battery optimization may affect performance in new areas
PlayStation Players
- Update available through PlayStation Store
- DualSense features may be enhanced for new content
- Trophy list will expand with new achievements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time does the new HSR update come out in my time zone?
A: Release times vary by region: North America gets it on February 12 at 8:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST, while Europe and Asia get it on February 13 at 4:00 AM CET and 11:00 AM CST respectively.
Q: Is Version 4.0 a major update?
A: Yes, absolutely! As an X.0 patch, Version 4.0 marks the beginning of a new major story arc, introducing the new world of Planarcadia, the Elation Path combat system, and significant gameplay expansions.
Q: Will there be a free 5-star character in Version 4.0?
A: While there are rumors about potential promotional events, HoYoverse has not officially confirmed any free 5-star character selector for Version 4.0. Check the official livestream and patch notes for the most accurate information.
Q: Should I pull for Yao Guang or wait for Sparxie?
A: Both characters follow the Elation Path but have different elements and mechanics. Yao Guang is Physical and available immediately, while Sparxie is Fire and releases in Phase 2. Consider your team composition and element needs when deciding.
Q: How big is the Version 4.0 download?
A: The pre-download size is 12.7 GB on PC and 4.9 GB on mobile devices. Ensure you have additional free space for installation and temporary files during the process.
Q: What happens if I can’t download the update immediately?
A: The download will remain available throughout Version 4.0. However, you won’t be able to access the game until the update is installed, so plan accordingly to minimize downtime.
Community Resources and Official Channels
Official Sources
- Twitter: @honkaistarrail
- Official Website: hsr.hoyoverse.com
- YouTube: Honkai Star Rail Official Channel
- Discord: Official Honkai Star Rail Server
Community Resources
- Reddit: r/HonkaiStarRail
- Game8: Comprehensive guides and character builds
- HoYoLAB: Official community platform
- Wiki: Fandom Honkai Star Rail Wiki
Conclusion
Honkai Star Rail Version 4.0 represents one of the most significant updates in the game’s history, introducing the expansive new world of Planarcadia, the innovative Elation Path combat system, and two exciting new characters. Whether you’re a free-to-play player carefully managing your Stellar Jades or a whale ready to pull for both Yao Guang and Sparxie, this update offers something for everyone.
Mark your calendars for February 12-13, 2026, prepare your storage space, and get ready to embark on an exciting new journey through Planarcadia. The countdown to Version 4.0 has officially begun, and I’ll be updating this guide with any new information as it becomes available.