Honkai: Star Rail Introduces Anomaly Arbitration — The Next-Level Endgame Challenge Mode

The developers behind Honkai: Star Rail have officially lifted the curtain on their next permanent endgame mode. After months of speculation and community leaks, Anomaly Arbitration is now confirmed as part of the upcoming Version 3.6 update. This mode promises to be the ultimate test for seasoned players who have been seeking fresh, high-stakes content.

Currently, Honkai: Star Rail features three main permanent challenge modes: Memory of Chaos (MoC), Pure Fiction (PF), and Apocalyptic Shadow (AS). However, the last major endgame addition came with AS in Version 2.3, and since then, players have been eagerly waiting for something new to sink their teeth into. Although temporary modes like Divergent Universe and Protean Hero have kept the community entertained, many fans have long demanded a more robust and challenging endgame experience.

That’s where Anomaly Arbitration comes into play.

What is Anomaly Arbitration?

Anomaly Arbitration is designed as a rotating, high-difficulty challenge mode where players will need to build multiple teams to face sequential trials. Specifically, the mode will feature three initial trials, each requiring unique teams without repeating characters. Upon clearing these, players can then assemble their best squad for the final stage, which will throw powerful enemies into the mix.

Unlocking this mode isn’t simple. To access Anomaly Arbitration, players must fully complete Stage 12 of MoC, Stage 4 of PF, and Difficulty 4 of AS — all with maximum stars. This essentially makes it a true endgame-only experience, rewarding players who have mastered existing content.

Rewards & Features

While exact reward lists are yet to be detailed, HoYoverse has confirmed that limited-time cosmetics, exclusive avatar frames, special upgrade materials, and likely Stellar Jades will be among the prizes. Anomaly Arbitration will also reset periodically, keeping the challenge fresh with new variations.

Alongside this mode, Version 3.6 is expected to bring additional quality-of-life updates, including better team-building recommendations and a refined event preview system.

When Will Anomaly Arbitration Be Released?

If HoYoverse sticks to its typical release schedule, Version 3.6 is likely to arrive by late September 2025. Until then, players can look forward to more information during the official livestream on August 2, where upcoming characters Cerydra and Hysilens will also be showcased.

Anomaly Arbitration is shaping up to be Honkai: Star Rail's most intense and rewarding game mode yet. Whether it can meet the community’s expectations remains to be seen, but the anticipation is certainly building.