Is Honkai: Star Rail Better Than Genshin Impact? A Comprehensive Comparison
The question of whether Honkai: Star Rail (HSR) is “better” than Genshin Impact is complex, as it largely depends on individual preferences and what players value most in a game. There isn’t a simple yes or no answer. In terms of objective elements, HSR offers some improvements in certain areas, particularly in resource acquisition and the pacing of gameplay. However, Genshin Impact maintains its strength with its expansive open-world and action-oriented combat. Ultimately, neither game is definitively “better,” but rather caters to different player tastes and playstyles. HSR often feels like a more convenient, faster-paced experience for players who enjoy turn-based battles, whereas Genshin provides a richer open-world adventure with real-time action. The core difference rests on whether you prefer freedom to explore a vast world or prefer a more structured turn-based experience.
Honkai: Star Rail’s Strengths
Enhanced Resource Management and Pacing
One of HSR’s key advantages is its more generous approach to resource management. The equivalent to Genshin’s resin system, Trailblaze Power, has a higher cap of 180 (compared to Genshin’s 160), and it replenishes faster at a rate of once every 6 minutes (versus Genshin’s 8 minutes). This means players can play more frequently and farm more materials without waiting for long periods. Additionally, HSR’s system of allowing players to farm nodes multiple times in a row streamlined the process of character and weapon enhancements compared to Genshin. This helps improve gameplay pacing, making it feel less tedious.
Streamlined Combat and Convenience
HSR embraces a turn-based combat system, which is a stark contrast to Genshin’s action-oriented approach. The addition of an auto-battle feature is a significant advantage. Players can set the game to run on auto, allowing them to complete battles without constant supervision, making it a more casual gaming experience. This feature is ideal for players with limited time or those who prefer a hands-off approach to grinding. While some may miss the dynamic action of Genshin, many find HSR’s streamlined combat both refreshing and time-saving.
Generous Gacha System
HSR has received praise for its more generous gacha system. It’s generally considered easier to acquire Stellar Jade (the equivalent of Primogems) than Primogems in Genshin. Also, HSR includes more free pulls and offers a free five-star character after 300 standard banner pulls. These elements contribute to a feeling that players are rewarded more consistently, making it feel less like a grind.
Story and Character Development
Some players find HSR’s dialogue, characterization, and overall story to be more compelling than Genshin’s. The characters feel unique and well-defined, moving away from some of the more typical anime tropes found in Genshin. The characters in HSR have deeper backstories and their relationships feel more nuanced.
Genshin Impact’s Strengths
Open-World Freedom
Genshin Impact’s most prominent strength is its expansive, fully explorable open world. The ability to freely roam, discover hidden secrets, and complete objectives at your own pace is a big draw. Unlike HSR, which is more mission-based, Genshin offers a sense of adventure and discovery, making the world feel alive. This immersive experience is one of the primary reasons why many players prefer Genshin.
Action-Based Combat
Genshin Impact’s combat is more action-oriented and involves constant player input and active skills. The ability to switch between characters, use elemental reactions, and execute combos gives the game a more dynamic feel. This is a huge draw for players who enjoy more interactive, hands-on battles. The combat in Genshin is arguably more engaging and complex, and requires a higher level of skill.
Variety in Gameplay
Genshin offers a broader range of gameplay variety. It includes exploration, puzzle solving, platforming, domains, and multiple game modes. The sheer amount of content means that players often have a wide selection of tasks they can partake in every day. It might feel like there’s always something to discover.
Lore
Genshin has a well-developed lore that is expanded with every new update, the story of Genshin is more complex and expansive, delving deeper into its fantasy setting.
The Bottom Line
Both Honkai: Star Rail and Genshin Impact are excellent games. HSR provides a more casual, streamlined experience, with improved resource systems, generous pulls, and a turn-based combat. Genshin Impact still reigns supreme with its action-oriented gameplay, expansive open-world and more freedom of exploration. The choice between the two largely boils down to personal preference. If you prioritize a less grindy experience and enjoy turn-based combat, HSR might be the better fit. If you crave the freedom of an open world and action-packed combat, Genshin Impact will likely be more appealing. Many players enjoy both games for their unique strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Should I play Honkai Impact 3rd before Star Rail?
No, it’s not necessary to play Honkai Impact 3rd before playing Honkai: Star Rail. While both games exist within the same broader universe, HSR’s main story can stand on its own and doesn’t require prior knowledge.
2. Which game is more generous with free characters and items, HSR or Genshin?
Honkai: Star Rail is generally considered more generous with free pulls, Stellar Jade acquisition, and even offers a free 5-star after 300 standard banner pulls.
3. Does Honkai: Star Rail have a pity system?
Yes, HSR has a pity system that guarantees a 4-star character every 10 pulls and a 5-star every 90 pulls on character banners, and 80 on light cone banners. The system also carries over between banners, meaning you won’t lose your pity progress.
4. Does the 50/50 pity carry over in Honkai: Star Rail?
Yes, the 50/50 pity in HSR carries over between banners. If you fail to get the featured character on one banner, your next 5-star pull on another banner has a 100% chance of being the featured character.
5. How long does it take to reach the “endgame” in Honkai: Star Rail?
Players generally reach HSR’s endgame, around Trailblaze Level 40-45, within a few weeks of consistent play.
6. Is Honkai: Star Rail more casual-friendly than Genshin?
Yes, HSR is designed to be more casual-player friendly with its auto-battle feature and less demanding time investment.
7. Which game makes more money, Genshin or HSR?
Data suggests that while HSR has had a strong start, Genshin Impact’s revenue per download is still generally higher, though players are shifting spending from Genshin to HSR
8. Who is considered the strongest character in Honkai: Star Rail?
Dan Heng’s Imbibitor Lunae form is currently regarded as the strongest character in HSR due to his high damage output, both single target and multi-target.
9. Which game has better character design and story?
This is subjective, but many players feel HSR’s character designs are unique, and its characterization, dialogue, and overall story is more impactful compared to the stock anime tropes sometimes found in Genshin.
10. Is it possible to play both games as a F2P player?
Yes, both games are designed to be playable as a free-to-play experience, but dedicated players should expect that it will take time and patience to acquire premium characters and weapons.
11. Does Honkai: Star Rail have an open world like Genshin?
No, HSR does not have a vast open world to explore like Genshin Impact. HSR is structured with defined maps and levels, more in line with classic RPG’s.
12. What happens after the soft pity in Honkai: Star Rail?
The soft pity starts around 75 pulls and this means that the chances of pulling a 5-star increase on each pull past the 75 mark. This culminates with the guarantee of a 5-star on the 90th roll.
13. Is the resin/Trailblaze system the same in both games?
No, HSR’s Trailblaze Power system is more generous with a higher cap and faster recharge rate than Genshin’s resin system.
14. What is the primary difference in gameplay between HSR and Genshin?
The core difference lies in combat. HSR features a turn-based combat system, while Genshin utilizes real-time, action-oriented combat.
15. Which game is better overall?
Neither game is objectively “better.” It depends on player preferences. If you like open-world exploration and action-based combat, Genshin might suit you better. If you prefer turn-based combat and a less grindy experience, HSR is a great choice.