Honkai: Star Rail has taken inspiration from sources before, but its latest world directly references Greek mythology. This inspiration is not only apparent in the world’s design, but in its new characters. Players already seem to be excited about these new additions and their theming, which suggests that Honkai: Star Rail should continue this trend going forward.
Though not all details about this new world have been announced, several characters have been introduced. Additionally, a teaser trailer for these new characters showed off several new landscapes not seen in Honkai: Star Rail previously. It should be noted that these landscapes have not been confirmed for this new world, but their Greek inspiration is undeniable.
Amphoreus, the Eternal Land
Amphoreus marks the fourth world being added to Honkai: Star Rail. The word “Amphoreus” refers to an ancient Greek unit of liquid measurement which was also used as a vase or container, the “amphora.” Leaks about the new world suggest that time bending will be a major gameplay element. Additionally, this time bending mechanic is said to reference “Thermae,” a kind of ancient Greek and Roman hot spring. Using Greek and Roman words in this new world shows Hoyoverse’s dedication to the theme.
Not many locations for Amphoreus have been showcased by Honkai: Star Rail. However, classic staples associated with Greece and Greek mythos can be seen in the recent Golden Epic Trailer. These include gold and blue accents, Greek pillars, a flowing river depicted alongside voice over mentioning the “River Styx.”
This theme extends to Amphoreus’ characters. Though not all characters have received an official introduction from Honkai: Star Rail, the names of ten characters have been revealed. Several of these names directly reference Greek mythology, like Hyacine, whose name may have been derived from Hyacinth, one of Apollo’s lovers. Greek imagery has also worked its way into the designs of a few characters, namely Aglaea. The Goldweaver is shown wearing an iconic golden laurel, heavily associated with both Greece and Rome.
It's unsurprising that Honkai: Star Rail would choose Greece for its first mythos-based world, but this idea can certainly be expanded upon in additional worlds as well.
Where Could Honkai: Star Rail Go Next?
Roman Mythology
While a Roman-inspired Honkai: Star Rail world could distinguish itself from Amphoreus through its architecture and Latin naming conventions, pulling from Roman mythology might prove too similar. Every mythology nerd knows that Rome draws heavily from Greece’s pantheon, which could make distinguishing the new hypothetical world a tad difficult.
However, Star Rail could use the similarities between Roman and Greek mythology to its benefit if it teased this new world in Amphoreus’ lore. Making these worlds “siblings” in some sort of way could not only be interesting world building, but justify the hypothetical world’s addition. This tie could extend to new characters as well.
Norse Mythology
Of course, the gods of Norse mythology could be another great inspiration for a Honkai: Star Rail world. The aesthetic of Norse mythology, Viking, and Scandinavia generally would be distinct from Star Rail’s additions so far. Star Rail could distinguish this world from Snowland by implementing Norse architecture.
Furthermore, Norse mythology’s pantheon of gods would be a great inspiration for new Honkai: Star Rail characters. The frigid environment of Scandinavia could add more Ice and Wind-type characters to the game. Currently, there are only seven characters that fall under the Wind combat type. If a Thor-inspired character was added to Star Rail, their introduction would easily add another Lightning type to the game.
Though Honkai: Star Rail has used Chinese mythology as inspiration before, particularly in the Xianzhou Luofu ship and its characters, it would be great to see this inspiration taken even further. Nevertheless, Honkai: Star Rail has made good use of the mythology it has drawn inspiration from and will hopefully continue this trend in future updates.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 83 /100 Critics Rec: 90%
- Released
- April 26, 2023
- ESRB
- Teen / Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, Simulated Gambling, In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items), Users Interact
- Developer(s)
- HoYoverse (Formerly miHoYo)
- Publisher(s)
- HoYoverse (Formerly miHoYo)
WHERE TO PLAY
They call them, "Aeons" in this galaxy. They construct reality, erase stars, and leave their marks on countless worlds. Together with your companions you'll travel across the galaxy on the Astral Express, following the path once traveled by the Aeons. From here, you will explore new civilizations, meet new comrades, and begin new adventures among countless fantastical worlds. All the answers you seek will be uncovered among the stars.
Well what're you waiting for? Are you ready to begin this trailblazing journey?
Honkai: Star Rail is a new HoYoverse space fantasy RPG. Hop aboard the Astral Express and experience the galaxy's infinite wonders filled with adventure and thrills.
Players will meet new companions across various worlds and maybe even run into some familiar faces. Overcome the struggles together caused by Stellaron and unravel the hidden truths behind it! May this journey lead us starward!
- Genre(s)
- RPG, Turn-Based RPG
