Recent leaks from Honkai: Star Rail's version 2.7 beta testing suggest a significant gameplay update that may revitalize the Path of Erudition, potentially paving the way for the highly anticipated 5-star Herta character. As HoYoverse's popular turn-based RPG continues to evolve in 2025, this unannounced improvement could reshape the game's meta and bring forgotten characters back into the spotlight.
Pure Fiction Mode Gets a Game-Changing Mechanic
According to reliable information shared by leaker HomDGCat, the Pure Fiction game mode will receive a substantial update in version 2.7 that introduces a new mechanic called 'Grit.' This system rewards players for defeating enemies and hitting multiple opponents with character Skills.
The Grit mechanic works by accumulating points as players defeat opponents and land hits with their Skills. Once a certain threshold is reached, all characters immediately take action while enemies receive increased damage. After this powerful effect triggers, the Grit value resets to a lower amount, allowing players to build it up again.
This update appears specifically designed to benefit Erudition characters, whose specialization in multi-target attacks positions them as ideal Grit generators. Since these characters can hit every opponent on the field with a single Skill, they can quickly accumulate Grit points, making them potentially invaluable in the updated Pure Fiction mode.
5-Star Herta: The Ultimate Erudition Powerhouse
The timing of this Erudition-focused buff aligns suspiciously well with increasing rumors about a 5-star version of Herta joining the roster. While Herta's doll has been available as a 4-star character since launch, leaks suggest her true form will debut as a 5-star unit in version 3.0, marking the beginning of the game's third year.
Unlike her 4-star counterpart who functions as a sub-DPS, the 5-star Herta is rumored to be a main DPS Ice character on the Path of Erudition. Her leaked kit suggests an impressive ability to target multiple enemies with explosive attacks that chain between adjacent opponents, potentially hitting every enemy on the field with a single Skill activation.
This ability would synergize perfectly with the new Grit mechanic, allowing Herta to rapidly generate Grit points and empower her entire team. Given the current lack of powerful, meta-relevant Erudition characters, 5-star Herta could become an essential asset for players tackling Pure Fiction content.
Screwllum: Another Potential Erudition Powerhouse
The Genius Society member Screwllum might also benefit from this upcoming update, though his release timeline remains uncertain. Like his colleague Herta, Screwllum is rumored to be a 5-star character on the Path of Erudition, wielding the Imaginary element.
While details about Screwllum's abilities remain scarce, leaks suggest he will excel at targeting multiple opponents simultaneously. If his multi-target capabilities are tied to his Skill rather than Basic Attacks, he would likely benefit significantly from the Grit mechanic. However, some rumors indicate his release may have been postponed indefinitely or even canceled, making his future in the game uncertain.
Renaissance for Older Erudition Characters
Beyond new character releases, this update could breathe new life into older, neglected Erudition characters who have fallen out of favor in the current meta. As powerful single-target DPS characters like Acheron, Firefly, and Feixiao have dominated team compositions, multi-target specialists have seen less use.
The introduction of Grit could change this dynamic dramatically, at least within Pure Fiction content. Characters who can hit multiple targets with their Skills will suddenly have a valuable niche, potentially bringing veterans like Jing Yuan and Himeko back into regular rotation.
What This Means for the Future
The focus on buffing Erudition characters suggests HoYoverse is planning a strategic shift in the game's meta. By introducing mechanics that favor multi-target specialists, they may be preparing players for upcoming content that demands these capabilities.
This approach also creates natural synergy with rumored characters like 5-star Herta and potentially Screwllum, generating excitement and incentive for players to pull for these new units when they arrive.
For veteran players, these changes offer a refreshing opportunity to dust off neglected characters and experiment with new team compositions. The Erudition path, long overshadowed by more meta-relevant options, may finally reclaim its place in the spotlight.
A Word of Caution
While these leaks come from sources with reliable track records, they should still be approached with healthy skepticism. The details about the Grit mechanic may be incomplete or subject to change before the official release. Similarly, the existence of playable 5-star Herta and Screwllum remains unconfirmed by HoYoverse.
Nevertheless, these leaks provide an exciting glimpse into what might be coming to Honkai: Star Rail in the near future. If accurate, version 2.7 could mark a significant turning point for the game's meta, bringing fresh strategies and renewed interest in the Path of Erudition.
As we await official announcements from HoYoverse, players would be wise to start reconsidering their Erudition characters and preparing for what could be a major shift in the game's competitive landscape. Whether you're a dedicated meta-chaser or simply a fan of characters like Herta, exciting times lie ahead in the world of Honkai: Star Rail.
The above analysis is based on reports from Eurogamer, a leading source for European gaming news and reviews. Eurogamer frequently covers updates to live-service games like Honkai: Star Rail, providing insights into how new mechanics and character releases can dramatically shift player strategies and the overall game meta.