Honkai Star Rail 3.8 Release Date Leaked, Features The Dahlia and Major Story Shift

Honkai Star Rail’s next major update is officially on the horizon. Version 3.8 is scheduled for a mid-December 2025 release. This update will introduce a new playable character and pivotal story developments.

According to Reuters, the gaming community is anticipating this patch as a crucial narrative bridge. It will conclude the Amphoreus arc and set the stage for the journey to Edo Star in version 4.0.

Honkai Star Rail 3.8 Release Schedule and Banners

The update arrives on December 15, 2025, for North American servers. Other regions, including Europe and Asia, will see it go live on December 16, 2025. The version is expected to run for approximately six weeks.

The first banner phase will feature the new 5-star character, The Dahlia. Her banner will include a set of 4-star characters, though their identities remain unconfirmed. This follows the established pattern for new character introductions in the game.

Introducing The Dahlia and Her Gameplay Role

The Dahlia, also known as Constance, is the sole new character in this update. She is a 5-star unit following the Path of Nihility and wields the Fire element. Her kit is designed to function as a Break Support specialist.

She enables allies to deal significant Super Break damage. This effect can occur even without fully depleting an enemy’s toughness bar. Her abilities show particular synergy with the existing character, Firefly.

Lore identifies her as a member of the Annihilation Gang’s Everflame Family. She is believed to be a daughter of Duke Ifrit Inferno. Her background also suggests she is a memokeeper, a role previously explored in the game’s universe.

New Content and Story Developments in Version 3.8

A new 5-star Light Cone, “Never Forget Her Flame,” will debut alongside The Dahlia. This signature weapon significantly boosts the wearer’s Break Effect and team Break DMG. It also provides a unique Skill Point recovery mechanic under specific conditions.

Leaks point to the introduction of a new formidable boss. This enemy appears to be a corrupted version of the SAM armor, associated with the character Firefly. The design features distinct red markings, suggesting a connection to the Swarm faction.

This boss encounter is expected to drive the narrative forward. It may serve as the catalyst that pushes the Trailblazer toward the new destination of Edo Star. The confrontation promises to deliver high-stakes action and emotional story beats.

The Honkai Star Rail 3.8 update is a carefully crafted transition packed with meaningful content. Players can anticipate a compelling new character and a story that reshapes the future journey. This version ensures the path to Edo Star begins with significant impact.

Info at your fingertips

Who is the new character in Honkai Star Rail 3.8?

The new character is The Dahlia, also known as Constance. She is a 5-star Fire unit on the Nihility path. Her kit focuses on enhancing Break Effect damage for her team.

When does the 3.8 update release?

It releases on December 15, 2025, for NA servers. Other regions get access on December 16, 2025. The update will run for about six weeks.

Is there a new boss in this version?

Yes, leaks indicate a new Calamity Boss will appear. It is depicted as a corrupted version of Firefly’s SAM armor. This boss is tied to the main storyline progression.

Will version 3.8 have any new Relics?

Current information suggests no new Relic sets or Planar Ornaments will be added. The update seems to focus on narrative and character introduction instead of new gear farms.

Which characters are getting a rerun?

Firefly and Boothill are among the characters speculated for rerun banners. Fugue, Rappa, Lingsha, and Yunli are also potential candidates, though this is not officially confirmed.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press