The emerald pastures of Genshin Impact’s Teyvat are a far cry from the vast expanses of the celestial universe of Honkai: Star Rail, which is in many ways incredibly exciting. It’s a whole new look for HoYovere, not only aesthetically, but also in terms of gameplay. Star Rail is a turn-based strategy game, which may sound alarm bells given that it’s a slightly less popular genre. However, producer David Jiang isn’t worried.
Speaking to Japanese gaming site Denfaminicogamer, Jiang says Honkai will be “accepted” across the board despite attracting a slightly different audience than HoYoverse’s flagship game, Genshin Impact. Please note that translations may not be 100% accurate; Unfortunately, I don’t speak Japanese.
When asked if he was worried that turn-based combat would be unpleasant, Jiang replied, “I think the perception that turn-based RPGs are a classic genre is a preconception. We think there are a lot of people who love turn-based RPGs, regardless of platform.
“There are many RPG titles in China that have successfully adopted the command tower system, and I believe Honkai: Star Rail will also be accepted.”
“Of course, I don’t think turn-based RPGs are a genre that anyone can easily play,” he says. “But I think there’s a chance that people who don’t like fast action games can play it.
“Based on the results of market and user research, we have determined that an RPG that does not require intense operations such as actions and instead focuses on a strategy that allows you to think carefully about your actions, has the potential to be a global hit.”
Another interviewee and chairman of Japanese gaming giant Nihon Falcom, Toshihiro Kondo, echoed Jiang’s statement. “Among those who have played Nihon Falcom titles, there are quite a few who say, ‘I’m not good at action, so I like turn-based RPGs where I can enjoy the story and games at my own pace.’ HoYovers’ research showed that there are people who like turn-based or commando RPGs. That encouraged me a lot.”
You can see the full interview here; Believe me when I say there is a lot some really cool stuff here, especially if you’re a fan of strategy games.
For my part, I am very excited to soar through space on the Star Rail, take turns or otherwise. If you’re also preparing for liftoff, be sure to check out our list of the best space games to get you in the mood, or try another anime game while you wait.