Hey everyone, it's your friendly Star Rail expert here! 🚀 I've been buzzing with excitement ever since the latest leaks dropped about Honkai: Star Rail's upcoming Version 2.5, and trust me, this is a game-changer. As of 2025, we're just weeks away from the big update on September 10, and the rumors about a brand-new "self-select" gacha banner have finally been confirmed by reliable leakers like StepLeaks. Imagine this: for the first time in Star Rail's history, you'll get to hand-pick your featured five-star character or Light Cone from a pool of fan-favorites like Kafka, Robin, and Black Swan. No more crossing your fingers and hoping RNGesus blesses you—this banner puts you in the driver's seat, and I can't wait to dive into all the juicy details with you. ✨

So, let's unpack how this self-select banner works. According to the leaks, it'll run during one half of Version 2.5, and you can switch between three featured units (yep, characters or Light Cones) at any time. The best part? Your pity progress transfers seamlessly across all three options. That means if you've built up pity on Kafka but suddenly decide Robin is your jam, your progress isn't lost—it's like a cosmic bank vault where your savings are always accessible, no matter which treasure you unlock. This is huge for F2P players or anyone saving up Star Jades, as it reduces the frustration of wasted pulls. Plus, leaks confirm that Kafka, Robin, and Black Swan are the initial featured units, all of whom have been meta-defining since their debuts. Kafka's DoT dominance, Robin's support prowess, and Black Swan's debuff madness—it's like assembling a gourmet feast where every dish is a Michelin-starred masterpiece! 🍽️

Now, you might be wondering, "Is this banner worth it?" or "How do I maximize my pulls?" Let's tackle some People Also Ask questions right here:

• People Also Ask: Which character should I pick for the self-select banner?

If you're new or missing key units, Kafka is a solid choice for her versatility in DoT teams, while Robin shines in buff-heavy comps. Black Swan is a beast for endgame content. Aim for characters that fill gaps in your roster—think of it as curating a rare gem collection; each piece adds unique sparkle to your display. 💎

• People Also Ask: Does pity transfer carry over to future banners?

No, pity only applies within this self-select banner during Version 2.5, so don't hoard pulls indefinitely. Plan your strategy early!

• People Also Ask: Will this banner cost more Star Jades?

Leaks suggest standard gacha rates, so it's the same cost as regular banners—just with more control. Budget wisely and farm those daily missions!

But wait, there's more to Version 2.5! HoYoverse isn't stopping at the banner—Feixiao and Lingsha are debuting as five-star powerhouses, with Moze joining as a four-star unit. Leaks also hint at a pet system (finally!), where you can raise your own interstellar companions, and new bosses that'll test your team builds to the limit. It's all dropping on September 10, 2025, so mark your calendars. 📅

Oh, and let's not forget the bigger picture: HoYoverse has dabbled in choice-based banners before. Genshin Impact's "Chronicled Wish" in Version 4.5 let players pick Mondstadt favorites, and Honkai Impact 3rd's "EXPA" banners offer similar customization. This self-select banner feels like navigating through a nebula—you chart your own course, avoiding cosmic debris to reach your desired star. 🌌 Or, it's akin to a bespoke suit; every stitch is tailored to your preferences, ensuring a perfect fit for your account.

So, what's the verdict? This self-select banner is a revolutionary step towards player agency, blending nostalgia with strategic depth. Get ready to make some tough choices, Trailblazers—your dream team is within reach. 🎯 Now, let's gear up: start grinding those Simulated Universe runs, hoard those Star Jades, and I'll see you all in Version 2.5 for the ultimate gacha showdown! Don't miss out—your favorite characters are calling! 📢