Just like in its predecessor, Genshin Impact, certain 4-star characters in Honkai: Star Rail rival their 5-star counterparts in terms of power and versatility. What sets top-tier 4-star units apart is their accessibility to Eidolons, providing additional passive abilities. This advantage not only enhances their utility but also allows for more flexible customization of their kits and roles within the game. When it comes to maximizing the potential of 4-star units in Honkai: Star Rail, their utility largely depends on how players build and incorporate them into their team compositions. This makes ranking them based solely on their personal kits a challenging task, as their performance can vary significantly depending on the setup they’re placed in. However, to provide some guidance, here’s an overview of how each 4-star character stacks up against their counterparts:
Arlan
Arlan’s kit in Honkai: Star Rail follows a simple yet effective design. By sacrificing his own HP to cast skills or absorb hits, Arlan’s damage output is amplified through his unique Talent. As a Destruction unit, Arlan excels at dealing considerable damage to both single targets and groups. His kit is well-balanced, allowing him to strategically manage his HP, both losing and regenerating it, which consistently boosts the effectiveness of his Talent, as it scales damage based on his lost HP. This synergy ensures that Arlan remains a formidable force on the battlefield, capable of delivering devastating blows to his enemies while maintaining his resilience.
Hook
For players seeking a reliable unit capable of dealing significant damage while consistently applying damage-over-time effects to enemies, Hook emerges as a formidable choice in Honkai: Star Rail. As a Destruction Path unit, Hook possesses the ability to unleash devastating damage through her Skill and Ultimate, particularly when targeting enemies already afflicted with Burn damage over time. Beyond her offensive capabilities, Hook’s kit is well-rounded, offering a balance of survivability, damage output, and utility. This versatility allows players to incorporate her into various team compositions, where she can excel and contribute effectively to the team’s success. Whether players prioritize damage dealing or crowd control, Hook’s presence on the battlefield is sure to make a significant impact in Honkai: Star Rail.
Dan Heng
Dan Heng serves his role effectively in the early game of Honkai: Star Rail but tends to be outclassed by stronger characters later on. Despite his modest stats, his high speed (SPD) is noteworthy, particularly as a Hunt unit. However, relying solely on speed isn’t enough for him to excel. When paired with a character that consistently buffs him, Dan Heng’s attacks can penetrate enemies’ Wind resistance, allowing him to dish out significant damage. While he may not be at the top of the ranks, his strategic utility and synergy with certain team compositions make him a valuable asset worth considering.
Qingque
Qingque’s usability in Honkai: Star Rail, particularly in auto-battle, is notably impractical. Her damage potential relies heavily on obtaining four-of-a-kind Jade Tiles, a feat determined solely by RNG. Each tile reroll consumes one Skill Point, quickly depleting the team’s reserves if players attempt to maximize Qingque’s damage output. This poses a significant risk in challenging content where Skill Point management is paramount. While Qingque has the potential for high damage, her reliance on luck and Skill Point consumption make her less than ideal for efficient play, especially in auto-battle scenarios.