When Is Honkai Star Rail’s (HSR) Anniversary? HoYoverse Celebrates Three Years With Version 4.2

Honkai Star Rail is officially turning three this month, and we have a lot to celebrate. This year, HoYoverse has a lot in store for us with the game being one of the most successful live-service gacha RPGs in recent years. While we’ve had big rewards for every anniversary, 2026 is a special one. But when exactly is the game’s anniversary date?

— Honkai: Star Rail (@honkaistarrail) April 22, 2026

Version 4.2 of Honkai Star Rail came out this morning, and while it is the anniversary patch for the game, we haven’t actually reached the actual date just yet. But if you’re interested in what Hoyo has in store for us, let’s go through everything new in the update. From free 5-star characters to login rewards, events, and more.

When Is Honkai Star Rail’s 2026 Anniversary?

Honkai Star Rail’s official release date was April 26, 2023, which means the game’s third anniversary falls on April 26, 2026.

However, much like last year, and similar to how other gacha games do it, the celebration doesn’t begin exactly on the anniversary day. Instead, all the events and rewards are a part of the “anniversary patch.” In 2026, that patch is Version 4.2, which came out today for all regions.

This means that you can already start getting some of the anniversary rewards even before April 26 arrives. As a result, the whole anniversary feels more like a multi-week celebration rather than a one-day login bonus.

Version 4.2 Anniversary Highlights and Rewards

As we mentioned, Version 4.2 is the official patch for the third anniversary celebration, and we’re getting a ton of new events, bonuses, and other content.

One of the standout additions is the flagship event “Cosmic Data Roaming,” where players take on the role of a streamer showcasing the Astral Express’ journey. Completing event objectives rewards players with valuable items, including a 4-star Light Cone.

As for anniversary rewards, HoYo is being especially generous this year. Players can log in during the “Festive Gifts” event to receive 20 Star Rail Special Passes, while the anniversary day mail delivers 1,600 Stellar Jades and additional resources.

On top of that, HoYoverse is giving away one free 5-star character. We’ll be able to choose from either Huohuo or Robin through the Stellar Convergence system, obtainable using a special currency earned during the event period.

We’re also getting some returning events, including triple drop rates for Relics and Calyx rewards, making it an ideal time to farm upgrade materials. On top of that, we’re also getting the Cherished Recollection top-up event and multiple web events, such as Aha’s Chosen and Phantasmoon New Game.

Of course, Version 4.2 also brings new characters. Silver Wolf LV.999 is the first new character in Phase 1, and she’s a powerful new variant of the popular hacker. Meanwhile, we’re getting Evanescia in Phase 2, who is expected to be a big part of the current Planarcadia story.

All things considered, Honkai Star Rail’s third anniversary seems like a really fun time. What is your most anticipated aspect of the update? Let us know in the comments!