In the vast landscape of survival games, it’s rare to find a title that pushes the boundaries of both storytelling and gameplay. Once Human, developed by Starry Studio, steps up to this challenge, offering players a fresh take on the post-apocalyptic genre. With its mix of immersive world-building, detailed mechanics, and intense combat scenarios, this game is quickly carving out a name for itself in the crowded arena of survival games. But does it have what it takes to stand out, or is it just another drop in the post-apocalyptic ocean? Let’s dive in.

Storyline and World-Building

The heart of Once Human lies in its rich, narrative-driven world. The game thrusts players into a dystopian future where humanity is on the brink of extinction. A mysterious event known as the "Apocalypse" has ravaged the world, leaving behind grotesque creatures and a landscape that is as hostile as it is desolate. The remnants of humanity are scattered, with survivors banding together to form factions, each with its own ideology and vision for the future.

The story unfolds through a series of missions, environmental storytelling, and interactions with NPCs. What sets Once Human apart is its commitment to deep, lore-driven narrative content. Every corner of the game’s world tells a story, from abandoned cities overrun by nature to secret underground bunkers hiding dark secrets. The developers have clearly invested a lot of time in creating a world that feels alive and responsive, drawing players in with its depth and complexity.

Gameplay Mechanics

Once Human excels in its gameplay mechanics, which are as diverse as they are intricate. The game is built on a survival core, where players must scavenge for resources, craft tools and weapons, and build shelters to withstand the harsh environment. The crafting system is detailed, offering a wide range of customization options for weapons, armor, and even base structures.

One of the most compelling aspects of the gameplay is the dynamic weather and day-night cycle. These elements aren’t just for show; they actively impact the gameplay, influencing everything from visibility during combat to the behavior of both enemies and wildlife. For example, traveling at night might reduce your visibility to enemies but also makes it harder for you to spot dangers lurking in the dark.

Combat in Once Human is fast-paced and unforgiving. Players face off against a variety of enemies, including mutated creatures, hostile factions, and other survivors. The game offers a mix of ranged and melee combat, with each type of weapon requiring a different approach. The combat mechanics are fluid, with a focus on strategic positioning and resource management. Ammo and health supplies are scarce, forcing players to think carefully about each encounter.

The game also introduces a unique “Erosion” system, where the world and its inhabitants are constantly changing. This system ensures that no two playthroughs are the same, as the environment and enemy behaviors adapt to the player’s actions. This adds a layer of unpredictability that keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.

Visuals and Audio

Visually, Once Human is a feast for the eyes. The developers have done an excellent job of creating a world that is both beautiful and terrifying. The game’s environments are richly detailed, with a level of realism that is both immersive and unsettling. The use of lighting and shadows adds to the atmosphere, creating a sense of tension that is palpable throughout the game.

The character and creature designs are equally impressive. Each enemy type is distinct, with its own unique animations and attack patterns. The level of detail in the character models, particularly in their clothing and equipment, adds to the immersion, making the world of Once Human feel lived-in and believable.

The audio design is another highlight. The game’s soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful, perfectly capturing the desolate and eerie tone of the world. Sound effects are used to great effect, with every footstep, rustling leaf, and distant growl adding to the tension. The voice acting is top-notch, with performances that bring the characters and story to life.

Multiplayer and Social Features

Once Human also offers a robust multiplayer component, allowing players to team up with friends or face off against other players in the game’s open world. The multiplayer experience is seamless, with no noticeable lag or connectivity issues. The game’s servers are stable, and matchmaking is quick and efficient.

The multiplayer mode adds a new layer of depth to the game, as players must navigate the complex social dynamics of working with or against other survivors. Factions play a significant role in the multiplayer experience, with players able to join or create their own factions, each with its own goals and objectives.

The game also features a PvP mode, where players can engage in large-scale battles for control of key resources and territories. This mode adds a competitive element to the game, encouraging players to hone their combat skills and strategize with their teammates.

Final Verdict

Once Human is a standout title in the survival genre. Its combination of rich storytelling, detailed mechanics, and immersive world-building makes it a must-play for fans of post-apocalyptic games. The game’s visuals and audio design are top-notch, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful. The gameplay is challenging but rewarding, with a dynamic world that ensures no two playthroughs are the same.

While the game is not without its flaws—some players might find the combat a bit too punishing, and the crafting system can be overwhelming at times—these are minor issues in what is otherwise a stellar game.

If you’re looking for a survival game that offers more than just the usual scavenging and crafting, Once Human is well worth your time. It’s a game that challenges you to think, adapt, and survive in a world that is as unpredictable as it is dangerous. And in a genre that is often criticized for its lack of innovation, Once Human is a breath of fresh, albeit toxic, air.

Conclusion

Once Human is a game that doesn’t just ask you to survive; it demands that you adapt, learn, and evolve. With its rich narrative, intricate gameplay mechanics, and immersive world, it’s a title that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned survival game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Once Human has something to offer. Prepare yourself for a journey into the unknown—because in this world, survival is just the beginning.