HoYoverse has just announced that Honkai Impact 3rd Part 2 is set to launch in February 2024, and it will come with a reworked combat system.

The exciting news was shared today by the developer of Genshin Impact. According to HoYoverse, Part 2 will take players on a thrilling new adventure on the planet Mars. The update will also bring numerous improvements and upgrades to the entire game and introduce a fresh face to the protagonist lineup named Dreemseeker.

“We’re thrilled to announce Honkai Impact 3rd Part 2,” exclaimed HoYoverse. “This new chapter signifies a major milestone for the franchise. Players will leave Earth and the Moon behind as they embark on an electrifying adventure within the solar system. They will team up with new partners from different cultures and experience the game as a team supporter named ‘Dreemseeker’.”

“In addition to the main story, the combat system will receive a full upgrade that significantly enhances the battlefield experience,” added HoYoverse.

Despite being labeled as Part 2, the update will provide a fresh start, allowing both newcomers and current fans to dive straight into the new adventure without any prior knowledge of the previous protagonist, Kiana.

During the Honkai Impact 3rd Part 2 Relaunch Special Program, HoYoverse shared a first look at the update through a cinematic trailer. The trailer showcased the expanded galaxy, introduced the new cast of characters with their refined fighting skills (reminiscent of Genshin Impact), and featured a dramatic landing on Mars.

Players can look forward to encountering all-new main characters and NPCs, each with a unique appearance and personality. The main plot “comprehensively integrates new scenes, narrations, and combat system,” offering a smoother and more immersive gaming experience for players.

“Contrary to common knowledge, Mars, where Part 2’s story unfolds, is actually inhabitable,” explained the developer. “A unique civilization and nature thrive and develop there, and people can even hang out on bustling, lively commercial streets. The daily lives of the residents may hold hidden mysteries yet to be discovered!”

In terms of upgrades, HoYoverse stated that the three-dimensional combat system will be “enhanced,” allowing characters to freely jump around, introducing a variety of new challenges and combat strategies.

Additionally, a new combat mechanic called Astral Ring will provide “an unprecedented experience during fights,” perfectly complementing the new fighting system. When activated, Astral Ring enables the simultaneous burst skills of multiple characters, leading to massive damage. Monsters will also receive improvements and will no longer be simple-minded, as they will intelligently react to players.

Honkai Impact 3rd initially launched on mobile devices in 2016 and later on PC in 2019. The game shares the same in-game universe as HoYoverse’s other gacha game, Honkai: Star Rail, which debuted on PC and mobile this year and is expected to hit PlayStation 5 next month.

For more, check out our list of the best RPGs and our top picks for the best PC games to play in 2023.