HoYoverse has unveiled the details of Honkai: Star Rail Version 2.6, titled Annals of Pinecany’s Mappou Age, set for release on 23 October 2024. This update will introduce a new area, Paperfold University, along with various in-game events, a new character, and a major update to the Simulated Universe. The update continues the story from the previous Xianzhou adventure, allowing players to return to Penacony and this time experience a vibrant campus setting.
Paperfold University, the centrepiece of this update, is a prestigious cosmic institution preparing for the new semester and its anniversary celebrations. The campus will be filled with student activities, including club recruitment and musical performances, creating a lively atmosphere for players to explore. The Astral Express crew will be invited as special guests to join the academic festivities. As part of the main Trailblaze Continuance mission, Banana Outrage: Battles Without Ninja and Humanity, players will navigate the campus as auditing students, engaging with classmates like March 7th and Dan Heng while deepening their connection to the game’s universe.
With a new update comes a new playable character should lady luck shine upon you, this time the introduction of Rappa, a new 5-star character. Described as a Galaxy Ranger with a distinctive ninja-themed persona, Rappa combines elements of rap, graffiti, and comics in her fighting style. Her combat abilities involve using ninja mantras, Dazzling Ninja Seals, and powerful attacks through her Ultimate ability, which grants her access to the Sealform state. In this mode, she can deliver group damage and reduce enemy toughness, even against those lacking Imaginary Weakness. Rappa’s narrative arc involves her mission to defeat her nemesis, Evil Ninja Osaru, as she traverses the stars.
Alongside Rappa, several limited-time characters will return during the Version 2.6 warp event, including Dan Heng • Imbibitor Lunae, Acheron, and Aventurine. These characters will be available in different phases of the update, providing players with additional opportunities to strengthen their teams.
The update will also feature the third Simulated Universe DLC, which follows Swarm Disaster and Gold and Gears. The new addition, Unknowable Domain, introduces players to a vast void where they must explore a simulated event known as the Scholars’ Strife. Set after the Second Emperor’s War, the battle revolves around the legacy of Emperor Rubert II and the powerful Scepter system — an advanced thinking unit comprised of bionic neurons. Players will need to collect and upgrade Scepters, strategically combining them with Components to unlock special synergies that will aid in defeating a powerful final boss.
In addition to the story content, Version 2.6 will include a range of events. One such event is “Sound Hunt Ninjutsu Inscription,” where players will join Rappa in managing the Dreamlight Anniversary music party. This event involves players taking on the role of band manager, collaborating with Rappa to lead performances.
Honkai: Star Rail is currently available on PC, iOS, Android, Epic Games Store, and PlayStation 5 as a free-to-play gacha-supported sci-fi RPG.
