Honkai Star Rail’s upcoming patch, version 3.8, is set to release on December 17, 2025, as announced during the game’s recent livestream. The update will introduce a new character, The Dahlia, a 5-star Nihility Support, and a new story chapter that returns players to the planet of Penacony.

The Dahlia, also known as Constance, was initially revealed at the beginning of the Penacony saga but did not participate in the main or side story. She will now become a playable character, capable of amplifying Break teams consisting of characters like Firefly, Lingsha, or Fugue. A new 5-star Nihility Lightcone, Never Forget Her Flame, will also be added to the game.

The patch will feature three phases of banners, each with different 5-star and 4-star characters. Phase 1 will include The Dahlia and Firefly as 5-star characters, while Phase 2 will feature Fugue and Lingsha. Phase 3 will include Aglaea and Sunday as 5-star characters. Phases 1 and 2 will last for three weeks each, and Phase 3 will last for 14 days.

A new boss, the Harbinger of Death Swarm Nightmare, will be introduced in the update. This fallen Glamoth Knight has unique mechanics that players will need to be aware of during battles. The new story chapter, Memories are the Prelude to Dreams, will take players back to Penacony, and a new area, The Dream of Nine Oak, will be available for exploration.

The update will also include events such as Remnants of Twilight and Chrysos Awoo Championship. Players can claim rewards, including Stellar Jades and Credits, using codes announced during the livestream. Additionally, players can earn a Special Star Rail Pass by logging in for a total of 7 days during the patch.

The patch will also bring adjustments to endgame content, including the addition of a new phase to Apocalyptic Shadow. A Treasure Hunt event will be available, allowing players to earn Tokens and spend them on rewards like Stellar Jades. Version 3.8 is set to last for 8 weeks, until the release of Honkai Star Rail patch 4.0.