Honkai: Star Rail is a free-to-play space fantasy RPG with turn-based combat. Players assemble a team of four characters, each with a unique combat path and elemental type, to strategically target enemy weaknesses. The gameplay loop involves exploring interconnected zones, completing story quests, and managing character progression through a gacha system.

The mobile experience is built for touchscreens, with a virtual joystick for movement and clear tap-based menus for combat and navigation. Auto-battle and combat speed options are available to streamline play sessions. The game requires a persistent internet connection.

Regular updates introduce new story chapters, characters, and limited-time events. Progression relies on stamina-based resources for core activities, encouraging shorter, daily play sessions suitable for mobile devices.