Just The Beginning: What To Expect In Once Human

Once Human is finally here! After a long wait, players are diving into its unique blend of survival, crafting, and open-world exploration with a dash of cosmic horror. But what should you really expect when you first boot up the game? This isn't just another survival clone; Once Human throws you into a world deeply affected by the Stardust, a mysterious force that's twisted reality and its inhabitants.

This post will give you a realistic overview of the early game, focusing on key mechanics, challenges, and the overall experience. Think of it as your pre-Stardust inoculation – preparing you for the weirdness and wonder that awaits. We’ll cover everything from resource gathering and base building to understanding the Deviant threat and navigating the game's unique progression system.

Initial Impressions: Prepare for a Different Kind of Survival

Forget pristine landscapes and familiar fauna. Once Human plunges you into a world that feels both familiar and unsettlingly alien. Expect to encounter warped creatures, bizarre environmental anomalies, and a constant sense of unease. The game's atmosphere is a strong selling point, and it immediately sets it apart from more conventional survival titles.

The initial hours are focused on learning the ropes. You'll be introduced to the core mechanics through a series of quests, guiding you through resource gathering, crafting basic tools, and understanding the fundamental principles of base building. Don't rush through these tutorials; they're essential for grasping the game's unique systems.

Resource Gathering: It's More Than Just Chopping Trees

Resource gathering in Once Human is a bit more involved than simply hitting trees and rocks. While those activities are certainly present, the Stardust's influence means you'll also be scavenging from mutated plants, extracting essence from corrupted creatures, and even harvesting energy from strange, otherworldly formations.

  • Variety is Key: You'll need a wide range of resources to progress. Don't focus solely on one type. Explore different areas to discover new materials.
  • Tools Matter: Invest in upgrading your tools as soon as possible. Better tools yield more resources per action and allow you to harvest rarer materials.
  • Territorial Disputes: Be aware that resource nodes are often guarded by Deviants. Prepare for a fight or find a way to sneak past.

Base Building: Your Sanctuary in a Twisted World

Your base in Once Human is more than just a place to store your loot; it's your sanctuary, your crafting hub, and your strategic outpost. The base building system offers a surprising amount of flexibility, allowing you to create structures that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

  • Location, Location, Location: Choose your base location carefully. Consider factors like resource proximity, defensive advantages, and proximity to key points of interest.
  • Defense is Paramount: The world is full of threats, and your base will inevitably come under attack. Invest in defenses like walls, turrets, and traps to protect your hard-earned resources.
  • Crafting Stations are Essential: Build a variety of crafting stations to produce weapons, armor, tools, and other essential items. Each station requires specific resources and has its own set of recipes.
  • Territory Control: Claiming territory is crucial for expanding your base and securing resources. Learn how to use Territory Controllers to expand your influence.

Understanding the Deviants: More Than Just Monsters

The Deviants are the mutated creatures that roam the world of Once Human. They're not just mindless monsters; they're complex entities with their own behaviors, weaknesses, and strengths. Understanding the Deviants is key to survival.

  • Observe Their Behavior: Pay attention to how Deviants move, attack, and react to their environment. This will help you develop effective strategies for dealing with them.
  • Exploit Their Weaknesses: Each Deviant type has specific weaknesses. Experiment with different weapons and tactics to find what works best.
  • Beware of Mutations: Some Deviants have unique mutations that grant them special abilities. Be prepared for unexpected challenges.
  • They Are Everywhere: Deviants are not confined to specific areas. They can appear anywhere, at any time. Always be vigilant.

Character Progression: Beyond Leveling Up

Character progression in Once Human goes beyond simply leveling up and allocating skill points. It involves a combination of factors, including your character's stats, skills, gear, and even their mental state.

  • Stats and Skills: Leveling up allows you to improve your character's core stats and unlock new skills. Choose your skills carefully, as they can significantly impact your playstyle.
  • Gear Matters: Your gear plays a crucial role in your character's effectiveness. Experiment with different weapons, armor, and accessories to find the best combinations for your build.
  • Mental State: The Stardust can affect your character's mental state, leading to negative effects like hallucinations and paranoia. Manage your mental state by consuming certain items and avoiding stressful situations.
  • Territorial Fame: This is an important system that allows you to unlock new blueprints and advance in the game. Participating in events and completing challenges in specific territories will increase your fame.

Early Game Challenges: What to Watch Out For

The early game in Once Human can be challenging, especially for new players. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Starvation and Thirst: Managing your hunger and thirst is crucial for survival. Always carry food and water with you.
  • Overconfidence: Don't underestimate the Deviants, even the weaker ones. A group of low-level Deviants can quickly overwhelm you.
  • Ignoring the Tutorials: The tutorials provide essential information about the game's mechanics. Don't skip them.
  • Hoarding Resources: While it's important to gather resources, don't hoard them unnecessarily. Use them to craft better gear and build a stronger base.
  • Neglecting Your Base: Your base is your lifeline. Don't neglect its defenses or crafting stations.

The Long Game: What Awaits Beyond the Horizon

The early game is just the beginning of your journey in Once Human. As you progress, you'll uncover new areas, encounter more powerful Deviants, and unlock advanced technologies. The game's story will also begin to unfold, revealing the secrets of the Stardust and the fate of humanity.

Expect to delve deeper into the mysteries of the Stardust, encounter other survivors (both friendly and hostile), and participate in large-scale events that will shape the future of the world. The endgame content is designed to be challenging and rewarding, offering players a variety of activities to pursue.

A Promising Start: Embrace the Weird

Once Human offers a unique and compelling survival experience. While the early game can be challenging, the game's atmosphere, mechanics, and progression system are all well-designed and engaging. By understanding the key elements outlined in this guide, you'll be well-prepared to face the challenges that await and thrive in this twisted, Stardust-infused world. Embrace the weirdness, experiment with different strategies, and most importantly, have fun! The journey has just begun.