Once Human On Xbox: Expected Features

The post-apocalyptic survival genre is about to get a fresh dose of weird with Once Human. While currently available on PC, the anticipation for its Xbox release is building. Players are eager to experience the game's unique blend of open-world exploration, base building, and bizarre, otherworldly horrors on their consoles. But what can Xbox players expect when Once Human finally makes its way to the platform? Let's dive into the features we anticipate seeing.

This isn't just a simple port. Developers Starry Studio will likely optimize the game for the Xbox Series X|S, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience. Here's a breakdown of what we expect, based on the PC version and typical console adaptations.

1. Optimized Performance for Xbox Series X|S

The most crucial aspect of any console port is performance. Once Human boasts impressive visuals and a sprawling open world, so optimization is key. We expect the Xbox Series X to deliver a near-PC experience, with high resolution textures, smooth frame rates (ideally targeting 60fps), and minimal graphical compromises. The Series S, while less powerful, should still provide a visually appealing and playable experience, likely with some adjustments to resolution and graphical settings.

  • Target: Smooth frame rates, high resolution textures, and optimized graphical settings.
  • Expectation: Series X should offer a near-PC experience, while Series S will require some graphical compromises.
  • Benefit: A fluid and immersive gameplay experience on both consoles.

2. Controller Support and Customization

This might seem obvious, but intuitive and customizable controller support is vital for any console game. Once Human requires precise aiming, resource management, and quick decision-making. The Xbox version needs a control scheme that feels natural and responsive.

  • Expectation: Fully customizable controller layouts, allowing players to remap buttons to their preference.
  • Consideration: Different control schemes for combat, building, and exploration.
  • Benefit: A comfortable and personalized control experience, enhancing gameplay.

3. Crossplay and Cross-Progression (Potential)

While not confirmed, the inclusion of crossplay and cross-progression would be a huge win for Once Human on Xbox. Crossplay would allow Xbox players to team up with or compete against PC players, expanding the player base and creating more dynamic multiplayer experiences. Cross-progression would enable players to seamlessly switch between playing on PC and Xbox, retaining their progress and characters.

  • Crossplay: Play with friends regardless of platform (PC or Xbox).
  • Cross-Progression: Continue your progress seamlessly between PC and Xbox.
  • Benefit: Expanded player base, more multiplayer opportunities, and flexibility in how and where you play.
  • Note: While highly desirable, crossplay and cross-progression often depend on various technical and logistical factors.

4. Xbox-Specific Features and Achievements

To truly feel like a native Xbox title, Once Human should include features that leverage the console's ecosystem. This includes Xbox Achievements, which provide players with challenges and rewards for completing specific tasks. Xbox Live integration for multiplayer functionality is a given, but features like Xbox Cloud Gaming support could also be a welcome addition.

  • Xbox Achievements: Unlockable challenges and rewards for completing in-game tasks.
  • Xbox Live Integration: Seamless multiplayer functionality and social features.
  • Xbox Cloud Gaming (Potential): Play Once Human on compatible devices without needing to download the game.
  • Benefit: A fully integrated Xbox experience with added challenges and convenience.

5. UI and Text Optimization for Console Play

PC games often have UI elements that are too small or difficult to read on a TV screen. The Xbox version of Once Human needs a UI that is clear, concise, and easily navigable with a controller. Text size should be increased, and important information should be readily accessible.

  • Expectation: Larger text size, simplified menus, and intuitive controller-based navigation.
  • Consideration: A radial menu for quick access to frequently used items and actions.
  • Benefit: A comfortable and user-friendly interface designed for console play.

6. Base Building Enhancements (Possibly Streamlined)

Base building is a core mechanic in Once Human. The PC version offers a deep and complex system, but it might need some streamlining for console play. Expect adjustments to the building interface and controls to make it more intuitive and less cumbersome with a controller. Pre-designed building templates or easier resource management could also be implemented.

  • Expectation: Simplified building interface and controls optimized for controller use.
  • Consideration: Pre-designed building templates or easier resource management.
  • Benefit: A more accessible and enjoyable base building experience on Xbox.

7. Enhanced Visuals and Sound Design

While optimization is crucial, we also hope to see visual enhancements that take advantage of the Xbox Series X|S hardware. This could include improved lighting effects, higher resolution textures, and more detailed character models. The game's sound design is already impressive, but enhancements to the audio fidelity and spatial audio support would further immerse players in the post-apocalyptic world.

  • Expectation: Improved lighting effects, higher resolution textures, and more detailed character models.
  • Consideration: Enhanced audio fidelity and spatial audio support for a more immersive experience.
  • Benefit: A visually stunning and aurally immersive gaming experience on Xbox.

8. Content Parity with the PC Version

Players expect the Xbox version of Once Human to include all the content currently available on PC. This includes all maps, weapons, gear, enemies, and story missions. Any content updates or expansions released on PC should also be made available on Xbox in a timely manner.

  • Expectation: All content currently available on PC should be included in the Xbox version.
  • Consideration: Timely updates and expansions to keep the Xbox version in sync with the PC version.
  • Benefit: A complete and up-to-date gaming experience on Xbox.

9. Server Stability and Optimization

A smooth online experience is essential for any multiplayer game. The Xbox version of Once Human needs stable servers that can handle a large number of players without lag or disconnects. Server optimization is crucial to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone.

  • Expectation: Stable servers that can handle a large number of players without lag or disconnects.
  • Consideration: Regular server maintenance and optimization to ensure a smooth online experience.
  • Benefit: A lag-free and enjoyable multiplayer experience on Xbox.

10. Accessibility Options

Accessibility is becoming increasingly important in modern gaming. Once Human on Xbox should include a range of accessibility options to cater to players with different needs. This could include customizable subtitles, colorblind modes, adjustable UI scaling, and remappable controls.

  • Expectation: Customizable subtitles, colorblind modes, adjustable UI scaling, and remappable controls.
  • Benefit: A more inclusive and accessible gaming experience for all players.

Final Thoughts

The Xbox release of Once Human has the potential to introduce a whole new audience to this unique survival experience. By focusing on optimized performance, intuitive controls, and console-specific features, Starry Studio can deliver a truly compelling version of the game. While crossplay and cross-progression remain unconfirmed, their inclusion would significantly enhance the game's appeal. Ultimately, players are hoping for a polished and feature-rich port that captures the essence of Once Human while leveraging the strengths of the Xbox platform. Keep an eye out for official announcements and trailers as we get closer to the release date! The future of survival on Xbox might just be a little bit… weirder.