Honkai Star Rail‘s next major update has a leaked schedule. The official reveal for version 4.0 characters is reportedly coming soon. New information points to a specific date for the anticipated drip marketing campaign.

This news follows the official delay of version 4.0 itself. Developers are preparing for the launch of a brand-new planet called Planarcadia. The drip marketing is the first official look at who will join the roster.
Leak Points to Imminent Character Reveals
A credible leaker known as Homdgcat shared the information. According to their post, notice for the 4.0 test servers was issued for December 30, 2025. This is a key piece of administrative data.
Drip marketing typically precedes test server access by about one week. Based on this reliable pattern, the reveal is expected around December 23, 2025. This aligns with the development timeline reported by Reuters.
The delay of the update to 2026 created a longer waiting period for players. This scheduled drip marketing helps maintain community excitement. It provides the first concrete details about the future content.
Sparkle and New Faces Expected in 4.0
The drip marketing is anticipated to showcase two new 5-star characters. All evidence strongly suggests one will be a new form of the existing character Sparkle. Her silhouette was teased in an official preview.
The new planet, Planarcadia, is themed around the Aeon of Elation. Sparkle is a known follower of this path, making her involvement logical. She would be the first playable Elation character in the game.
The identity of the second new 5-star character is less certain. Early rumors mentioned a character named Yaoguang, but recent leaks have been silent. The final reveal will confirm which new traveler joins the Express crew.
The leaked timeline sets the stage for Honkai Star Rail’s next chapter. The Honkai Star Rail 4.0 drip marketing will finally answer pressing player questions about Planarcadia’s champions.
Thought you’d like to know
What is “drip marketing” in Honkai Star Rail?
It is Hoyoverse’s method of revealing new characters. Official art and details are released slowly, like “drops,” before a version’s launch. This builds anticipation for the upcoming update.
When will Honkai Star Rail 4.0 be released?
The full version 4.0 update was delayed and is now expected in early 2026. An exact date has not been officially confirmed by the developers at HoYoverse.
Who is definitely going to be in the 4.0 drip marketing?
All credible leaks point to a new form of Sparkle being featured. Her silhouette matches the tease, and the new planet’s theme connects directly to her character.
What is Planarcadia?
Planarcadia is the new planet coming in version 4.0. It is described as a world influenced by the Aeon of Elation, suggesting a chaotic and joyous setting for the next story arc.
Why was version 4.0 delayed?
HoYoverse stated the delay was to ensure higher quality for the massive new planet content. This extra development time is for polishing the Planarcadia experience for players.
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