Due to Japan's extremely erroneous remarks, the originally planned destination for HSR Version 4.0, "Benzaitengoku"—a reference to the Edo Star—may face difficulties in its release. As a result, the HSR development team might need to make adjustments and revisions to this version.
HSR 4.0 Rumors Hint At Massive Changes
If HoYoverse follows its standard six-week update schedule, Version 4.0 is set to launch on January 28, 2026, marking the beginning of a new content year early in 2026. However, speculation sparked by the leaker known as HXG indicates that the beta testing for Version 4.0 could be postponed by up to eight weeks. These remarks were originally shared in a post on Reddit.
image from HXG
According to HXG, while the beta release might be delayed, the eight-week timeframe remains speculative. HXG did not specify the reason behind this potential delay in the post, though multiple rumors have circulated that HoYoverse is revising details related to the upcoming in-game destination.
Possible Changes to the Version 4.0 Destination
If the speculation holds true, the Japanese-inspired elements of the Edo Star may be removed. HoYoverse typically plans its content years in advance, making it unlikely for the company to completely abandon the "Edo Star" concept altogether. Therefore, the most probable outcome would be the removal of Japan-associated elements from the upcoming destination.
image from reddit
As a result, the narrative framework of the "Edo Star" could remain intact, but its Japanese cultural inspirations would likely be stripped away. Consequently, characters rumored to be inspired by Japanese designs, such as the speculated Yae Sakura expy in Honkai: Star Rail, may also be affected. These characters with Japanese stylistic influences might be replaced or redesigned with inspirations drawn from non-Japanese cultural sources.
However, given the current geopolitical climate, adjustments to the version's setting are almost certain, and the original "Edo Star" concept may be replaced with a different storyline. Players who appreciate Japanese-inspired aesthetics need not worry—should circumstances improve in the future, such content may eventually be reintroduced.
Conclusion
However, given HSR's multiverse setting, there is no need to be fixated solely on a Japanese-inspired aesthetic. The multiverse framework itself offers HSR ample flexibility. By making thoughtful updates and adjustments on the existing foundation, it will undoubtedly bring players even more captivating characters and stories.
LDShop will continue to provide everyone with the latest updates on HSR, so stay tuned to the HSR Hub!
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Joséphine Fossey Experienced Game Editor
I’m a tactical RPG strategist obsessed with perfecting character builds and team synergies. My guides go beyond basic tier lists—I dissect talent priorities, relic/weapon interactions, and rotation timings through frame-perfect testing and stat optimization. Whether you're maximizing a support's buff uptime or crafting a hypercarry's one-shot combo, I turn complex mechanics into battle-proven strategies that dominate the meta.
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