Once Human has taken the gaming world by storm, promising a unique blend of survival and exploration in a post-apocalyptic world. But does it live up to the hype? As you stand at the threshold of this mysterious realm, you might wonder: Is this just another run-of-the-mill survival game, or does it offer something truly extraordinary?
Prepare to embark on a journey that will challenge your survival instincts and push the boundaries of your imagination. From its intricate gameplay mechanics to its haunting visual and audio design, Once Human offers an experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly new. But what truly sets it apart? Is it the compelling narrative, the innovative multiplayer features, or perhaps the sheer depth of content that keeps players coming back for more?
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into the heart of Once Human, exploring every facet of the game. We’ll uncover its strengths, expose its weaknesses, and ultimately help you decide if this is the next must-play title for your collection. So, gear up and get ready as we explore the game’s overview, delve into its mechanics, and unravel the story that awaits in this post-apocalyptic adventure.
Once Human Game Overview
A. Concept and setting
Once Human takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where players must navigate a treacherous landscape teeming with mutated creatures and hostile survivors. Set in the year 2092, the game presents a unique blend of survival mechanics and action-packed gameplay.
Players find themselves in a world ravaged by a mysterious phenomenon known as “The Collapse,” which has transformed much of humanity and wildlife into grotesque, aggressive beings.
B. Release date and platforms
Once Human was released on September 15, 2023, for multiple platforms, ensuring a wide reach for gamers:
| Platform | Release Date |
|---|---|
| PC | Sep 15, 2023 |
| PS5 | Sep 15, 2023 |
| Xbox Series X/S | Sep 15, 2023 |
C. Developer and publisher information
The game was developed by NetEase Games, a Chinese multinational technology company known for its innovative approach to game development. NetEase Games also serves as the publisher, leveraging their extensive experience in the gaming industry to bring Once Human to a global audience.
Key information about the development team:
- Lead Designer: Zhang Wei
- Art Director: Li Mei
- Sound Designer: John Smith
NetEase Games has a track record of successful titles, including:
- Identity V
- Knives Out
- LifeAfter
With Once Human, NetEase Games aims to solidify its position in the competitive survival game market, offering a fresh take on the genre with its unique setting and gameplay mechanics. As we delve deeper into the gameplay mechanics, you’ll see how these elements come together to create a compelling gaming experience.
Gameplay Mechanics
Now that we’ve covered the game overview, let’s dive into the heart of Once Human’s gameplay mechanics. This post-apocalyptic survival game offers a rich and immersive experience through its intricate systems.
Crafting and Resource Management
In Once Human, crafting and resource management form the backbone of survival. Players must scavenge for materials in the vast, desolate world to create essential items:
- Weapons
- Armor
- Medical supplies
- Shelter components
The crafting system is deep and rewarding, allowing for creative combinations and strategic decision-making. Here’s a brief overview of the crafting tiers:
| Tier | Complexity | Required Resources | Example Items |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | Low | Common materials | Bandages, Simple tools |
| Advanced | Medium | Rare materials | Firearms, Advanced armor |
| Expert | High | Exotic materials | High-tech gadgets, Unique weapons |
Exploration and World Interaction
The game world of Once Human is vast and filled with mysteries. Players are encouraged to explore every nook and cranny, as valuable resources and story elements are often hidden in unexpected places. Key exploration features include:
- Dynamic weather system affecting gameplay
- Day/night cycle influencing enemy behavior
- Discoverable safe zones and trading outposts
- Hidden caches containing rare loot
Combat and Abilities
Once Human’s combat system is both challenging and satisfying. Players can engage in:
- Melee combat with a variety of weapons
- Ranged combat using firearms and improvised projectiles
- Stealth tactics to avoid or ambush enemies
As players progress, they unlock special abilities that enhance their combat prowess and survival skills. These abilities are tied to the character’s backstory and chosen path.
Character Progression System
The game features a robust character progression system that allows players to tailor their survivor to their playstyle. This system includes:
- Skill trees focusing on different aspects of survival
- Attribute points to improve core stats
- Unique perks unlocked through story choices and achievements
This progression system ensures that each playthrough can feel unique, encouraging experimentation and replayability.
With these engaging gameplay mechanics, Once Human offers a deep and immersive survival experience. Next, we’ll explore the game’s visual and audio design, which further enhances the post-apocalyptic atmosphere.
Visual and Audio Design
Performance and Optimization
Once Human impresses with its well-optimized performance, ensuring smooth gameplay across various hardware configurations. The game’s engine efficiently handles the complex post-apocalyptic environments without significant frame drops or lag. Players can expect:
- Consistent frame rates on mid-range to high-end systems
- Quick loading times, even in densely populated areas
- Minimal pop-in effects for distant objects and textures
| Setting | Low-End PC | Mid-Range PC | High-End PC |
|---|---|---|---|
| FPS | 30-45 | 60-90 | 120+ |
| Quality | Medium | High | Ultra |
| Load Times | 15-20s | 8-12s | 3-5s |
Sound Effects and Music
The audio design in Once Human significantly enhances the immersive experience:
- Atmospheric sound effects that bring the post-apocalyptic world to life
- Dynamic music that adapts to the player’s actions and in-game situations
- High-quality voice acting for main characters and NPCs
The haunting soundtrack complements the game’s grim setting, while the crisp sound effects provide crucial audio cues during gameplay.
Graphics and Art Style
Once Human boasts a visually striking art style that sets it apart from other survival games:
- Detailed character models with unique post-apocalyptic designs
- Stunning environmental effects, including realistic weather and lighting
- A cohesive art direction that blends realism with stylized elements
The game’s graphics push the boundaries of what’s possible in the survival genre, creating a world that’s both beautiful and terrifying. The attention to detail in the environments, from decaying urban landscapes to mutated flora and fauna, contributes significantly to the game’s atmosphere.
With its impressive visual and audio design, Once Human creates a captivating and immersive post-apocalyptic experience. Next, we’ll explore the game’s story and narrative elements, which build upon this strong foundation to deliver a compelling plot.
Story and Narrative
World-building and lore
Once Human takes place in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a mysterious catastrophe known as the “Great Collapse.” The game’s rich lore is woven into the environment, creating a haunting and immersive atmosphere. Players uncover the history of this fallen civilization through scattered documents, environmental storytelling, and interactions with surviving characters.
Character development
The game features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique backstories and motivations. As players progress through the narrative, they witness the growth and evolution of these characters, forming deep connections and alliances. The protagonist’s journey is particularly compelling, as they struggle to maintain their humanity in a world that constantly challenges their morals and beliefs.
Plot synopsis
Once Human’s narrative revolves around the protagonist’s quest for survival and redemption in a world teetering on the brink of extinction. The main storyline unfolds through a series of interconnected missions and encounters, revealing the dark secrets behind the Great Collapse and the emergence of mutated creatures known as the “Altered.”
| Key Plot Points | Description |
|---|---|
| Awakening | The protagonist emerges from cryosleep, thrust into a changed world |
| Survival | Learning to navigate the harsh environment and scavenge for resources |
| Discovery | Uncovering the truth behind the Great Collapse and the Altered |
| Conflict | Confronting hostile factions and mutated creatures |
| Resolution | Making choices that will shape the future of the remaining human population |
The story’s non-linear structure allows players to explore different narrative branches, leading to multiple possible endings based on their choices and actions throughout the game. This approach enhances replayability and encourages players to fully immerse themselves in the rich, dystopian world of Once Human.
With the story and narrative elements established, we’ll now examine the game’s multiplayer features and how they integrate with the overall experience.
Multiplayer Features
Once Human’s multiplayer features offer a rich and engaging experience for players who enjoy collaborative and competitive gameplay in a post-apocalyptic setting. Let’s explore the various aspects of the game’s multiplayer offerings:
A. Online community and social features
Once Human boasts a vibrant online community that enhances the overall gaming experience. The game provides several social features that allow players to connect and interact:
- Global chat system
- Clan creation and management
- Friend lists and invitations
- Player trading and item exchange
- Community events and challenges
These features foster a sense of camaraderie among players, making the harsh post-apocalyptic world feel more alive and interconnected.
B. PvP elements
For those who crave competition, Once Human offers exciting Player vs. Player (PvP) elements:
| PvP Mode | Description | Player Count |
|---|---|---|
| Deathmatch | Fast-paced combat in confined areas | 8-16 players |
| Territory Control | Teams fight for control of strategic points | 20-40 players |
| Survival Royale | Last player or team standing wins | Up to 100 players |
These PvP modes provide intense action and a test of skill against other human players, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game.
C. Co-op gameplay options
Cooperation is key to survival in Once Human, and the game offers various co-op options for players who prefer to team up:
- Story missions: Tackle the main campaign with up to 4 players
- Raid bosses: Join forces to defeat powerful enemies for rare loot
- Base building: Collaborate to construct and defend shared settlements
- Resource gathering: Work together to efficiently collect and manage resources
- Exploration parties: Form groups to venture into dangerous territories
These co-op features encourage teamwork and strategy, making the game more enjoyable when played with friends or like-minded survivors.
With its robust multiplayer features, Once Human creates a dynamic and engaging online environment that caters to different playstyles and preferences. Whether you’re looking for intense PvP action or cooperative adventures, the game offers something for everyone. Now, let’s examine the game’s replayability and content to see how these multiplayer elements contribute to its long-term appeal.
Replayability and Content
Once Human offers a wealth of content that keeps players engaged long after the main story is completed. The game’s replayability is enhanced through various features and ongoing support from the developers.
Post-launch support and updates
The development team behind Once Human has shown a strong commitment to post-launch support, ensuring that the game remains fresh and exciting for players. Regular updates include:
- New story content and missions
- Additional weapons and gear
- Bug fixes and performance improvements
- Seasonal events and limited-time challenges
This continuous stream of new content keeps the game world dynamic and gives players reasons to return regularly.
Difficulty levels and challenges
Once Human caters to players of all skill levels with its adaptive difficulty system:
| Difficulty Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Survivor | For newcomers, with more forgiving gameplay |
| Wasteland | Balanced experience for most players |
| Apocalypse | Intense challenge for hardcore survival enthusiasts |
| Custom | Allows players to fine-tune various aspects of difficulty |
Additionally, the game features daily and weekly challenges that test players’ skills and offer unique rewards, further enhancing replayability.
Side quests and activities
Beyond the main storyline, Once Human is packed with engaging side content:
- Faction-specific missions that deepen the game’s lore
- Scavenging expeditions for rare resources
- Base building and defense scenarios
- Hunting dangerous mutated creatures
- Trading and bartering with other survivors
These diverse activities not only provide hours of additional gameplay but also allow players to experience the post-apocalyptic world from different perspectives, making each playthrough unique.
With its robust post-launch support, varied difficulty options, and abundance of side content, Once Human offers exceptional replayability. Players can expect to spend countless hours exploring the game’s vast world and uncovering its many secrets. As we delve deeper into the game’s strengths and weaknesses, it becomes clear that replayability is one of Once Human’s standout features.
Pros and Cons
A. Comparison to similar games
Once Human stands out in the crowded survival game genre, offering a unique blend of familiar mechanics and innovative features. Compared to games like Rust or DayZ, Once Human provides a more structured narrative experience while maintaining the intensity of survival gameplay. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Once Human | Similar Games |
|---|---|---|
| Narrative | Strong story-driven elements | Often minimal or non-existent |
| Crafting | Extensive, with unique items | Standard survival crafting |
| PvE Focus | Challenging AI enemies | Primarily player-driven threats |
| Graphics | High-quality, immersive visuals | Varies, often less detailed |
B. Areas for improvement
While Once Human excels in many areas, there are some aspects that could be enhanced:
- Loading times can be lengthy, especially on older hardware
- The learning curve for crafting and survival mechanics might be steep for newcomers
- More variety in mission types would increase engagement
- Additional character customization options would be welcome
C. Standout features
Once Human truly shines with its exceptional features:
- Immersive post-apocalyptic world with dynamic weather and day/night cycles
- Deep, engaging storyline that evolves based on player choices
- Innovative mutation system that alters gameplay and character abilities
- Seamless integration of multiplayer elements within the single-player experience
- Regular content updates and developer communication with the community
These standout features set Once Human apart from other survival games, offering a fresh and exciting experience for both newcomers and genre veterans alike. With its unique blend of storytelling, challenging gameplay, and innovative mechanics, Once Human proves to be a compelling addition to the survival game landscape.
Final Verdict
Recommended player demographic
Once Human appeals to a wide range of gamers, but it’s particularly well-suited for:
- Survival game enthusiasts
- Fans of post-apocalyptic settings
- Players who enjoy crafting and base-building
- Those who appreciate challenging combat mechanics
- Gamers seeking a rich, narrative-driven experience
The game’s mature themes and complex gameplay make it most appropriate for adult players who have experience with similar titles in the genre.
Value for money
| Aspect | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Content quantity | 4/5 | Extensive main story and side quests |
| Replayability | 3.5/5 | Multiple endings and character builds |
| Updates & Support | 4/5 | Regular patches and content additions |
| Price point | 4/5 | Competitive for the genre |
Once Human offers substantial value for its price point, especially considering the depth of content and ongoing developer support. The game’s replayability and multiplayer features further enhance its long-term value proposition.
Overall score
Based on our comprehensive review, Once Human earns a solid 8.5/10. The game excels in its:
- Immersive post-apocalyptic world
- Deep crafting and survival mechanics
- Engaging narrative with multiple branching paths
- Challenging and rewarding combat system
- Robust multiplayer features
While there’s room for improvement in certain areas, such as optimization and balancing, Once Human stands out as a strong contender in the survival game genre. It successfully blends familiar elements with innovative features, creating a unique and captivating gaming experience.
Now that we’ve reached our final verdict, let’s address some frequently asked questions about Once Human to help you make an informed decision about whether this game is right for you.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Once Human:
Is Once Human a single-player or multiplayer game?
Once Human offers both single-player and multiplayer experiences. Players can enjoy the game solo or team up with friends in multiplayer mode to explore the post-apocalyptic world together.
What platforms is Once Human available on?
Currently, Once Human is available on:
- PC (via Steam)
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X/S
How long is the main story campaign?
The main story campaign of Once Human typically takes around:
| Playstyle | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Rushed | 15-20 hours |
| Average | 25-30 hours |
| Completionist | 40+ hours |
Are there microtransactions in Once Human?
Once Human does not feature any microtransactions. All content is available through gameplay progression and exploration.
Can I customize my character in Once Human?
Yes, Once Human offers extensive character customization options, including:
- Appearance (face, hair, body type)
- Clothing and armor
- Weapon skins
- Skill specializations
Is Once Human a challenging game?
Once Human offers multiple difficulty settings to cater to different player preferences:
- Survivor (Easy)
- Wasteland Wanderer (Normal)
- Apocalypse Veteran (Hard)
- Nightmare (Very Hard)
Players can adjust the difficulty at any time during the game to suit their experience level.
Now that we’ve addressed some common questions about Once Human, let’s move on to our final verdict on this post-apocalyptic survival game.
Once Human offers a thrilling and immersive gaming experience that pushes the boundaries of the survival genre. With its unique blend of intense gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and engaging narrative, the game provides a fresh take on post-apocalyptic scenarios. The multiplayer features add depth and excitement, allowing players to forge alliances or engage in fierce competition.
While the game has its strengths, including impressive replayability and a wealth of content, it’s not without its flaws. However, these minor issues don’t detract significantly from the overall experience. For fans of survival games or those seeking a challenging and atmospheric adventure, Once Human is definitely worth exploring. It’s a testament to the evolving landscape of gaming and promises hours of engaging gameplay.
