Kafka is a 5-Star Lightning element character in Honkai: Star Rail, specializing in damage over time (DOT) through the Nihility path. Introduced in version 1.2, Kafka became a fan favorite thanks to her ability to apply and amplify Shock effects. She returns periodically in limited banners, like Indelible Coterie in version 2.5, and remains one of the most sought-after damage dealers for DOT-focused teams.
If you’ve already obtained Kafka or are planning to pull for her, understanding how to build her effectively can maximize her potential. This includes selecting the right Light Cone, equipping optimal Relics, assembling a synergistic team, and gathering the necessary Ascension and Trace materials.
Kafka’s Combat Role and Abilities
Kafka is a Lightning Nihility character designed to inflict and enhance DOT effects, particularly Shock. Her abilities scale with her Attack stat and benefit from synergy with other DOT-based allies.
Key Stats and Path:
-
Element: Lightning
-
Path: Nihility
-
Rarity: 5-Star
-
Role: Shock DOT dealer and enabler
Skills Overview (at Trace Level 1):
-
Basic Attack – Midnight Tumult: Deals Lightning damage to a single enemy (50% of ATK).
-
Skill – Caressing Moonlight: Deals Lightning damage to a primary target (80% of ATK) and lesser damage to adjacent foes (30% of ATK). Instantly triggers 60% of the damage from any active DOTs on the main target.
-
Ultimate – Twilight Trill: Hits all enemies for Lightning damage (48% of ATK), applies Shock with a 100% chance, and instantly deals 80% of the applied DOT’s damage. Shock lasts two turns and inflicts additional Lightning damage (116% of ATK) at the start of each turn.
-
Talent – Gentle but Cruel: When an ally performs a Basic attack, Kafka follows up with Lightning damage (42% of ATK) and a 100% chance to Shock the same enemy for two turns. This follow-up can activate once per turn.
-
Technique – Mercy Is Not Forgiveness: In open-world exploration, Kafka can strike first, dealing Lightning damage (50% of ATK) to all enemies within range, with a 100% chance to apply two-turn Shock.
Bonus Traces:
-
Torture: Kafka’s Ultimate now causes all active DOTs to trigger immediately, not just Shock.
-
Plunder: Defeating a Shocked enemy regenerates 5 Energy.
-
Thorns: Increases Shock application chance by 30% for her Ultimate, Technique, and follow-up attacks.
Ascension Materials Needed for Kafka
To fully upgrade Kafka’s base stats—HP, ATK, DEF, and critical performance—you’ll need the following materials:
Total Ascension Requirements:
-
15x Thief’s Instinct
-
15x Usurper’s Scheme
-
15x Conqueror’s Will
-
65x Shape Shifter’s Lightning Staff
-
308,000 Credits
Per-Level Material Breakdown:
-
Level 20: 5 Thief’s Instinct – 4,000 Credits
-
Level 30: 10 Thief’s Instinct – 8,000 Credits
-
Level 40: 6 Conqueror’s Will, 3 Lightning Staff – 16,000 Credits
-
Level 50: 9 Conqueror’s Will, 7 Lightning Staff – 40,000 Credits
-
Level 60: 6 Usurper’s Scheme, 20 Lightning Staff – 80,000 Credits
-
Level 70: 9 Usurper’s Scheme, 35 Lightning Staff – 160,000 Credits
Trace Materials for Kafka
Enhancing Kafka’s abilities requires Trace materials specific to her skill set. Upgrading these increases the power and effectiveness of her attacks and passive effects.
Total Trace Material Requirements:
-
8x Tracks of Destiny
-
12x Regret of Infinite Ochema
-
18x Obsidian of Dread
-
Additional Obsidian items and Thief’s Instinct materials across tiers
Traces should be prioritized as follows:
-
Ultimate (Twilight Trill)
-
Talent (Gentle but Cruel)
-
Skill (Caressing Moonlight)
-
Basic Attack
Best Kafka Build Recommendations
Light Cone (Weapon Equivalent):
-
Patience Is All You Need (Signature Option): Great synergy with Kafka’s Shock mechanics.
-
Alternatives: Good Night and Sleep Well, Fermata (for F2P options)
Relics:
-
Main Set: Band of Sizzling Thunder (boosts Lightning DMG)
-
Planar Ornaments: Space Sealing Station (increases ATK) or Pan-Galactic Commercial Enterprise (effect hit rate boost)
Recommended Main Stats:
-
Body: ATK%
-
Feet: Speed
-
Sphere: Lightning DMG Boost
-
Rope: Energy Regeneration Rate or ATK%
Sub-stats Priority: ATK%, Speed, Break Effect, Effect Hit Rate
Best Team Composition for Kafka
Kafka thrives in teams that can stack DOT effects or support her through energy and damage boosts.
Top Team Options:
-
Kafka + Sampo + Pela + Luocha
-
Kafka + Luka + Asta + Natasha
DOT allies like Sampo and Luka are particularly strong due to their synergy with Kafka’s playstyle, while support units can sustain and amplify team output.
Kafka is a strong choice for players who enjoy DOT mechanics and synergy-based gameplay. With the right investment in Traces, materials, and a well-structured team, Kafka can become a powerhouse in your Honkai: Star Rail lineup.
