Once Human: A Strange, Scary, SCP-Inspired Multiplayer Survival Game

Once Human, NetEase's strange, scary, SCP-inspired take on the multiplayer survival game genre, is set to hit storefronts on July 9th! But there's a bit of a catch. That's only on PC, for Steam and the Epic Games store. Yep, shock, horror! Mobile fans will have to wait a whopping two months for it to release on the 29th of September! While it's not exactly the end of the world, stay tuned for later in this article as we discuss why that is.

Once Human is set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland where strange creatures known as Deviants have pushed humanity to the edge of extinction. The new trailer shows off some suitably grotesque monster designs and intriguing gameplay mixed with some gunplay against eldritch horrors.

The fact that NetEase, basically the kings (or tyrants, depending on who you ask) of mobile gaming alongside other monoliths like Tencent, decided to announce a launch for PC without even a whisper of their mobile release later in the year is surprising. Remember, this is the same company that powered through the flak that Diablo Immortal received in order to create a fantastically successful game despite the naysayers.

If we were cynical we might suggest that Once Human is NetEase's chance to go 'legit' and make something that helps shed the accusations of predatory microtransactions and other game issues that have held the developer back. With subsidiary Starry Studio at the helm, Once Human could prove a real breakout hit on PC if all goes well.

Cold comfort for the rest of us eh? Well, in the meantime if you need something to play then why not take a look at our list of the top mobile games of 2024 (so far)?

It's interesting to see NetEase take a step away from their mobile roots with Once Human. It could be a sign that they're looking to broaden their appeal to a wider audience. Or, it could simply be that they see an opportunity in the multiplayer survival game market.

Whatever the reason, Once Human is sure to be a game that turns heads when it releases on July 9th. With its grotesque monster designs, intriguing gameplay, and post-apocalyptic setting, it's a game that has the potential to be a real breakout hit.

Of course, mobile fans will have to wait a bit longer to get their hands on the game. But, with any luck, the wait will be worth it.