Once Human is an intriguing post-apocalyptic game, no doubt about it. It’s a multiplayer open-world survival crafting game with a diverse quest system. It also features a comical creature collection aspect with a Palworld animal-workforce twist, and a dash of Death Stranding fantasy elements. This mix of elements makes for a unique experience.
The World
You enter this strange setting as a Mayfly, a character who can synchronize with collectible creatures called Deviants, and your mission is to save the world. The gameplay is straightforward and linear. Usually it’s clear outposts, find hidden chests, and repeat. Despite the repetitive tasks, the game’s visual appeal keeps you engaged. It’s visually stunning, especially for a free-to-play title, with diverse and detailed environments ranging from a ruined high school to a deserted factory, and even a wealthy hillside town. Each location is meticulously designed, that feels lived in before the zombie-like enemies moved in.
Combat
The baddies in Once Human are anything but ordinary. Some have lanterns for heads, tarpaulin-shrouded demons, spitters, floating bugs, a giant boss with balloons for a head, and much more. The variety of enemies is impressive, and each new area brings more unique challenges. The game also has a spooky atmosphere that keeps you on edge, with dark environments and unpredictable encounters adding to the tension. Want to join next time? Use this link to enter the TTO-Community Discord and be ready for the next event!
Player Interaction
In the PvE-servers the camaraderie is strong, as players join forces to tackle tasks and fend off creatures together. There is no friendly fire in this mode. The This social aspect is a highlight, making Once Human enjoyable even for solo players, as there’s usually someone else around to team up with. Players also have the ability to leave each other messages in the shape of flurecent flowers, for motivation or tips. Its PvP side is a bit different, as high level players tend to pull away from the less dedicated.
The Deviants
Deviants, the comical collectible creatures, add a quirky and enjoyable element to the game. They range from a butterfly that deals damage to a frog that enhances production, a samurai that defends you, a cat that improves rest, and Digby Boy, who mines resources. These creatures can be upgraded and utilized in various ways, adding depth to the gameplay. With more players and Deviants in the mix, the potential for this system is intriguing and fresh in its own way.
TTO Community
The TTO Community entered the game one by one, slowly establishing a small town on a quite side of within the game world. This community has embraced the cooperative elements of Once Human, creating a vibrant and thriving settlement. Their town is a testament to the game’s potential for fostering collaboration and camaraderie among players. Together, they explore, build, and defend their home against the various threats the game throws at them, showcasing the best of what Once Human has to offer in terms of multiplayer engagement.
Mixed Steam Reviews
It’s worth mentioning the Mixed Steam reviews, which focus on three main issues:
- Performance: Some players experience high CPU temperatures, stuttering, and rubberbanding, though performance was not apparant during our playthrough.
- Character Creation and Server Limitations: Initially, players could only create one character on one server, but this was quickly addressed by the developers.
- Terms of Service/EULA: Concerns about personal data requirements have been met with criticism, though NetEase has provided clarifications on privacy conditions.
Seasonal Wipes
The game has seasonal wipes, which occur every six weeks and resets most progress, while retaining blueprints, cosmetics, and some items. This approach, similar to Rust and DayZ, aims to level the playing field for new and returning players. However, the effort involved in building and collecting in Once Human makes these resets feel more impactful, potentially deterring some players from long-term engagement.
Free items
When in-game, press F3 and then ‘X’ to open the Redeem Code section. Type in yq150239315 for a free weapon, courtesy of streamer Stally447. Also try out any of the following redeemable codes for Once Human: OH000007, HYD7MY66RT, OnceHumanTBG, OnceHumanJRpt, OnceHumanIGP, OnceHumanLG, OnceHuman0710, fcnx8nhxj7.
Conclusion
The game is wonderful, especially considering it’s a free game. There is no Pay 2 Win component and looks atmospheric. Some grind is to be expected, but is fair and loopholes are available. It’s generally a great game with a lot of thought and heart for what it wants to be. Overall, Once Human is a compelling game with a lot to offer, despite some confusing elements and mixed reviews. A fun experience that is enjoyable solo or with friends.
