The potential and capabilities of the mobile platform gave game developers the confidence to dive into video game production. A platform that initially didn’t seem very promising has now become a launchpad for developers with big dreams. Major studios like Tencent and Gameloft are just a few examples of those who used the mobile platform’s power to create outstanding games.
But mobile developers turned out to be even more ambitious than anyone expected. They quickly began creating AAA games for mobile, kicking off a new era of high-end gaming. If you’re a fan of this exciting new generation, stay with us as we dive deep into the dark, thrilling world of Once Human.
NetEase: The Game-Changing Studio Behind Once Human
One of the studios that truly made history in mobile gaming is the Chinese giant NetEase. Known for producing top-quality mobile titles and for pushing boundaries without hesitation, NetEase once again raised the bar in 2024.
Their major comeback came with Once Human, which first launched on PC and received massive praise. The game’s overwhelming success convinced NetEase to develop a mobile version, which they officially released in the first quarter of 2025. Thanks to the powerful NeoX engine, the mobile edition didn’t just meet expectations—it shattered them, delivering one of the most beautiful mobile games to date.
Critical Reception: Positive Reviews and High Hopes
Once Human was warmly welcomed by both critics and players. Reputable gaming sites like IGN awarded it 8 out of 10, while Eurogamer gave it a solid 3 out of 5. On Metacritic, the game scored a respectable 71.
Beyond the numbers, the fact that it was free-to-play made it an even bigger hit among gamers. The experience offered by Once Human proved that high-quality, console-like survival experiences are now fully possible on mobile devices.
A Dark and Gripping Storyline in a Broken World
When it comes to survival games, the narrative can make or break the experience—and Once Human absolutely delivers.
The story unfolds in a haunting, post-apocalyptic world contaminated by an alien substance called Stardust. This mysterious infection has turned Earth’s creatures into terrifying monsters. As one of the few survivors, players are thrown into a desperate fight for survival.
The game’s dark atmosphere and layered storytelling masterfully capture emotions like loneliness, fear, and resilience. It’s not just about surviving physically; it’s about staying sane in a world that feels lost.
Immersive Gameplay: Survival, Crafting, and Exploration
At its heart, Once Human focuses heavily on survival mechanics and open-world exploration. Dropped into an unforgiving wasteland, players must gather essential resources such as wood, water, food, and minerals to survive.
The crafting system is incredibly detailed. Players can create a wide variety of items, from basic survival tools to complex structures like fortified bases. Every item you collect has real consequences for your survival strategy, making resource management a key part of the gameplay.
Exploration is highly encouraged. The world of Once Human is full of hidden dangers, valuable resources, and breathtaking scenery. Every journey into the unknown feels rewarding—and risky.
Combat Mechanics: Thrilling Battles and Strategic Choices
Combat in Once Human is a thrilling mix of third-person action and survival strategy. You’ll face mutated monsters, alien creatures, and even hostile players.
The game offers a diverse range of weapons—from primitive bows to high-tech firearms—giving players the freedom to choose their preferred combat style. Whether you prefer sniping enemies from afar or rushing into the fray, Once Human accommodates your playstyle.
Smart use of weapons and abilities is crucial. The character upgrade system lets players customize their skills, unlocking perks like increased stamina, better weapon handling, and faster resource gathering.
Multiplayer Madness: Co-Op Survival or PvP Domination
One of the most exciting features of Once Human is its robust multiplayer mode. Players can join forces with friends to build communal bases, share resources, and defend against common threats.
If cooperation isn’t your thing, you can jump into thrilling PvP battles on public servers. Competing against other survivors for territory adds a new layer of tension and excitement to the game.
Dynamic world events, such as toxic rainstorms, monster invasions, and the appearance of rare resources, constantly shake up the gameplay, forcing players to adapt on the fly.
Stunning Visuals and Sound: A True Feast for the Senses
Graphically, Once Human is a masterpiece for mobile devices. Built with the powerful NeoX engine, the game delivers breathtaking visuals, detailed environments, and impressive lighting effects.
Every corner of the world feels alive, from the overgrown ruins of once-thriving cities to eerie, desolate forests crawling with mutated beasts. The attention to detail is truly remarkable.
The sound design is just as impressive. The crunch of footsteps on snow, the eerie howl of the wind, the crack of gunfire, and the visceral sounds of combat all come together to create a deeply immersive experience. The world of Once Human doesn’t just look real—it sounds real too.
Final Verdict: Why Once Human is a Must-Play Mobile Game
Once Human successfully brings the depth, excitement, and emotional power of PC and console survival games to mobile. With its captivating story, deep survival mechanics, thrilling multiplayer features, and breathtaking visuals, it stands out as one of the best mobile gaming experiences of 2025.
Whether you’re a die-hard survival game fan or simply looking for a rich new world to explore, Once Human deserves a spot on your device. Prepare yourself for a dark, unforgettable journey into the unknown—you might just get hooked.
