Honkai: Star Rail has NPC customization options. However, they never come for the Trailblazer, the protagonist.
Community players are curious as well as divided into groups about this customization issue of Trailblazer.
While there are benefits, there are certain issues with this makeover. It can destroy the game as well.
Released as a free-to-play role-playing game, Honkai: Star Rail has gathered enough success. Despite critics mostly praising the game, players provide mixed reactions. miHoYo created this game by blending elements from some characters from Honkai Impact 3rd and some gameplay elements from Genshin Impact.
If players have traversed through the expansive universe of Honkai: Star Rail, they are aware of Trailblazer. Trailblazer is basically the player avatar whose journey aligns with the evolving narrative of the game. As the protagonist of the game, he navigates different worlds and goes through challenging paths like Destruction, Preservation, and Harmony.
As players choose different paths, the Trailblazer’s abilities largely transform. However, his appearance remains the same, which has sparked a discussion within the community about the potential pros and cons of his complete makeover.
Honkai: Star Rail often brings new customization options for players. Even passive NPCs benefitted from these outfits. The upcoming update will bring alternative skins for Belle and Wise, who aren’t even playable characters. Here comes the basic question: when NPCs get new outfits, why can’t the protagonist?
As the debate begins, players mention that visual upgrades increase engagement. Not only that, changes in appearance sometimes reflect a character’s growth as players progress through the storyline. Each path the Trailblazer chooses signifies a substantial transformation in their abilities and role within the team.
For example, players can consider the switch from the Destructive Path, which is an aggressive path, to a more supportive Harmony Path. This shift represents an entire change in the gameplay style. In that case, if the protagonist goes through an appearance change, it will make the gameplay visually appealing and enrich the storytelling experience.
Additionally, the developers have added a ‘wardrobe’ feature in the Trailblazer’s room, which suggests that the developer has plans to customize the appearance of this protagonist.
The community members are excited to see Trailblazer in a new way, but the outfit of the character must be aligned with different factions or regions to make them realistic. These additions offer a deeper connection to the game's diverse settings and cultures.
Also Read: Game of Thrones Kingsroad: Expert Tips for the Perfect Start
While one group of players thinks Trailblazer having a complete makeover is appealing, there are several challenges to overcome. For instance, bringing new skins for the lead character of the game requires significant research and development resources. The design of the outfit and animation should be perfect to make it a seamless addition to the gameplay.
Now, coming to the Trailblazer, he is the central character who navigates through different Paths. Each path is full of different animations, and each of these paths requires a new skin. Therefore, creating multiple skins for the Trailblazer is complex and time-consuming.
Moreover, with every new outfit, the appearance of the Trailblazer changes. In that case, if every time the protagonist changes appearance, it may affect player engagement. Players may lose a sense of identity with the Trailblazer.
The Trailblazer represents players in the gaming world. Therefore, maintaining a consistent appearance is vital to keep players engaged in the game. If the makeover fails to balance visual diversity with the core identity of the Trailblazer, it will ruin the entire game.
Customization is indeed one of the most beloved features that players want from a game. In recent times, developers also focus on bringing new appearances for players to make the game engaging. However, in Honkai: Star Rail, it’s a bit challenging. While there are prospects, there are significant limitations.
Customization can enhance storytelling and signify the development of the characters. This will provide players with a more personalized experience. However, there are some technical challenges that one needs to keep in mind. The game has to maintain character consistency. Otherwise, the entire gameplay will be ruined.
Also Read: Marvel Rivals Faces Massive Player Drop Amid Balance Issues and Community Backlash