The Commencement Reception is one of the biggest free rewards events ever added to Honkai: Star Rail. Introduced with Version 4.0, this event lets every eligible player choose one free 5-star character and instantly receive materials to build that unit up to Level 60. There is no gacha luck involved. You simply pick the character you want.
This guide explains how the event works, which characters you can choose, and who you should pick based on your account and playstyle.
What Is the Commencement Reception Event?
Commencement Reception is a limited-time login event tied to Version 4.0. Once the event is live, the game gives you access to a 5-star character selector containing seven powerful units from different paths and elements.
You do not need to complete any missions to unlock the selector. As soon as the event is active on your account, you can open the event menu and claim your reward.
Event Duration and Availability
The Commencement Reception runs for a long window, so there is no rush on day one.
- Event Start: After the Version 4.0 update
- Event End: End of Version 4.2
- Eligibility: All players (no Trailblaze Level restriction)
Once you select a character, the choice is final and cannot be changed.
All Free 5-Star Characters You Can Choose
You can pick one character from the following list:
- Jing Yuan – Lightning / Erudition
- Kafka – Lightning / Nihility
- Dan Heng • Imbibitor Lunae – Imaginary / Destruction
- Jingliu – Ice / Destruction
- Sparkle – Quantum / Harmony
- Acheron – Lightning / Nihility
- Aventurine – Imaginary / Preservation
Along with the character, the game also gives level-up and ascension materials to immediately raise them to Level 60, making the reward usable right away.
Best Character Picks (Who Should You Choose?)
Choosing the right character matters, especially if you are free-to-play or returning after a long break. Below is a clear breakdown to help you decide.
Best Overall Pick: Sparkle
Sparkle is the safest and strongest choice for most players.
- She is a top-tier Harmony support
- She massively improves Skill Point economy
- She fits into many teams, including future DPS units
- Extra copies (E1 or E2) remain extremely valuable
If you already own Sparkle, picking her again for Eidolons is still a strong move.
Recommended for: New players, veterans, and long-term account value
Best Sustain Option: Aventurine
If your account lacks strong defensive units, Aventurine is an excellent pick.
- Provides reliable shields
- Works well in Follow-Up Attack teams
- Keeps teams alive in high-difficulty content
He does not boost damage directly, but survivability wins difficult fights.
Recommended for: Players struggling with sustain or endgame survival
Conditional DPS Pick: Kafka
Kafka shines in DoT-focused teams, but she needs the right setup.
- Strong with Black Swan and DoT supports
- Expensive to build properly
- Less flexible outside her niche
Pick Kafka only if you plan to invest in her full team.
Recommended for: DoT team players with future pull plans
High Investment DPS: Acheron
Acheron can perform well, but she demands heavy investment.
- Needs strong debuff support
- Performs best with Eidolons
- Not beginner-friendly
She rewards dedicated builds but is not an easy win.
Recommended for: Experienced players who enjoy complex setups
Lower Priority Picks
These characters are generally weaker compared to current meta standards:
- Jing Yuan – Outdated damage output
- Dan Heng • Imbibitor Lunae – Skill Point hungry and team-restrictive
- Jingliu – Underwhelming damage even after buffs
Pick them only if you strongly like their design or playstyle.
When Should You Claim the Free Character?
You can claim the reward at any time before Version 4.2 ends. If you are unsure, it is smart to wait until:
- You see upcoming banners
- You confirm which teams you want to build
- You check if future updates change your needs
There is no penalty for waiting.
No matter your choice, the Commencement Reception is one of the most generous events Honkai: Star Rail has ever offered. Make your pick wisely and build your roster around it.
