Hi Metas,
Thank you for staying with Once Human as we continue to evolve. We are excited to announce that Once Human CBT 2.0 will officially begin on December 6th!
This time, we strive to deliver innovative ideas and immersive experiences to all Metas, while also integrating the valuable feedback received during the CBT 1.0.
Taking this opportunity, we are thrilled to introduce the exceptional experiences that Once Human is set to bring to players in the future. Our dedicated team of hundreds of professional designers, engineering experts, and artists from across the globe has come together, driven by their passion for survival games and high-quality console gaming. With this in mind, we aim to deliver a top-notch open-world survival experience to gamers who share our love for gaming.
Free High-Quality SOC Game: Free to play SOC Game, 16KMx16KM Seamless Open World
Open World Survival Sandbox: Featuring a wide range of multiplayer game modes, you can enjoy various playstyles with your friends, whether it's battling against challenges, competing for resources, or simply indulging in building and relaxation. The choice is yours to make;
No Pay-to-Win: In the future, our main form of monetization will be focused on cosmetic purchases. We will ensure that the power gap between players remains minimal, creating a fair and low-pressure gaming environment.
Cross-platform gaming with unified accounts: Currently we have launched on PC, and plan to expand onto console and mobile in the future, allowing you to enjoy our games on various platforms. Regardless of the platform, we aim to provide an immersive experience and a clean UI style for you.
We are making steady progress towards our development goals, continually polishing and enhancing the game content to deliver a fresh and improved gaming experience in the future. Throughout the CBT2.0 phase, we will further engage with players, fostering a deeper level of interaction. We warmly invite everyone to actively participate in our community activities, as participating players will have the chance to receive exclusive profile frames and avatars as free rewards!
Next, we invite you all to join us in getting a sneak peek at the crucial content updates that await you in the massive CBT2.0 release.
[CBT2.0 Update Overview]
1. Art Quality Enhancement
We have comprehensively updated the Engine. The new lighting effects render both indoor and outdoor environments more realistic and detailed. It's not just the lighting – factories, stations, and even wilderness landscapes are being gradually optimized. Alongside the enhanced world details, character, gears, and weapon textures have also become more intricate. The addition of hundreds of new animations will provide Metas with a more immersive role-playing experience. Furthermore, we've addressed the shooting sensation issues reported during CBT1.0 by thoroughly optimizing weapon actions, SFX, and recoil. This will guarantee a more impactful combat experience during CBT2.0.
2. Survival & Combat Gameplay Update
During the CBT 2.0, we will undergo a comprehensive update and iteration of the survival and combat gameplay, aiming to provide you with a more immersive and enriching gaming experience.
I. Securing Deviations, Beyond the Norm
In CBT1.0, the first gear that you have encountered was the Cradle. It tightly integrates with the Meta's body, strengthening and empowering a Meta with various abilities during the Deviation securing process.
In this coming new version, the Cradle will evolve into a visualized growth system. By [Securing] Deviations, Metas will unlock a newly evolved ability called [Override], and gain mastery over the "Deviation Absorption Ability".
- Securing Deviations
In the cataclysmic aftermath of the Stardust Apocalypse, not only did the world give birth to babbling Deviants but also harbored many mischievous Deviations with "wicked" intentions, hiding in every corner of the vast world. It is your - a Meta's - task to secure these troublemakers. However, They disguise themselves as seemingly harmless everyday objects, engaging you in an exhilarating game of hide-and-seek. It could be a floor scattered with explosive mines or a game of chess with opponents who resort to sneaky tactics. Only by playing along with their whims will they willingly retreat into the Cradle.
You can place these troublemakers in S-Vessels within your Territory for safekeeping and attend to their needs. Each Deviation possesses its own unique character and lifestyle preferences. Lighting, temperature, and humidity are merely the basics. Of course, taking care of these Deviations also comes with its own rewards. The control they exert over their surroundings may bring unexpected effects to your Territory. Moreover, Deviations with high Securement progress will produce crucial resources for crafting Whim props.
While you're determined to explore the world and neglect the Deviations at home, they might just take matters into their own hands and dismantle your S-Vessel. In a way, it's akin to having unconventional pets at home.
- Override
With this update, Cradle's capabilities have been enhanced and expanded. As it analyzes the Deviations, Cradle is also undergoing self-evolution and growth until it triggers "Override," surpassing existing limitations and granting Metas enhanced material influence capabilities.
There are 5 stages to Override, and with each stage a set of new "Override Features," or simply features, will be unlocked. Features represent the ways Cradle influences the material world, and mastering new features allows Metas to utilize Cradle for the transformation of matter, energy, and even rules. To activate and exert their influence on the external world, these features need to be aligned with Cradle's nodes. Each type of Cradle corresponds to a specific Override mode.
Essentially, as you continuously absorb Memetic and break through the limit... At some point, Metas may finally unleash the full power of the Cradle.
- Greater Diversity in Wilderness Interactions
Previously, the Cradle's external interface on the Meta's left arm was mainly used for the injection of potions. While in the new version, you can harness the power of Source through this interface to remotely manipulate small objects and efficiently gather resources for their Stronghold.
Use the left-hand device to suspend explosives to your left side before throwing and forming a blast radius. This means you can take advantage of explosive objects in the scene and levels, and then control explosion locations to aid in combat. Some enemies also have body parts with special effects. Prioritize destroying these parts to make them drop, then absorb and throw, executing a smooth combo to assist in battle.
Of course, you can also make life easier by using the left-hand device to remotely collect materials into your Backpack as quick clean-up.
II. A More Engaging Survival Experience
①Physique System
In the CBT1.0, we mentioned how different character physiques can impact various attributes. Characters with a strong, muscular build may have increased melee damage and carrying capacity, but they will also experience higher stamina consumption. On the other hand, agile and smaller characters may possess greater mobility but may be at a slight disadvantage in close-quarter combat.
In the new version, every action of a Meta-Human will dynamically alter their physique. Different types of food will notably impact body weight fluctuation. Overeating may lead to a "bulging waistline". However, there are also multiples ways for body weight management. Engaging in activities that require stamina will gradually burn fat. Doing push-ups at an appropriate time may aid in rapid body shaping, and occasional episodes of gastrointestinal discomfort might yield surprising results.
Not to worry, though—normal eating and exercising won't add too much extra burden. After all, Meta-Humans have superior bodies compared to ordinary people, and we also aim to ensure that the challenges of real-life weight management do not translate into the game as a source of distress.
②Territory Construction Upgrades
Building up one's territory in the wilderness is one of the core experiences we hope everyone may enjoy. Therefore, we've implemented comprehensive upgrades to the territory building system for the CBT 2.0.
- Expanded Territory Structure Limit & Terrain Adaptation:
In the previous testing phase, we noticed that many Metas were expressing their desire for a higher build limit. Taking your suggestions into account, in the new version, we have increased the individual Territory build limit by 50% and introduced the ability for buildings to adapt to more complex terrain. Structures can now be suspended or supported, allowing Meta-Humans to construct houses on cliffs or creating duplex hanging structures around hills. With these enhancements, you will have the freedom to shape the world to your liking anywhere and anytime.
- Enriched Territory Decor & Interactions:
In this test, we've added way more Territory decorations and interactive gameplay. Music-savvy Meta-Human can serenade themselves during their leisure time or even invite friends over to engage in meaningful conversations on the couch. Furthermore, we are introducing personalized decor options, enabling you to adorn your Territory according to your unique tastes and preferences.
- Hive Territory & RVs:
In addition to your personal Territory, you can also choose to cohabitate with your Hive teammates. Shared Territories offer a larger structure limit, allowing team members to collaboratively construct a shared home. In the future, we will also implement a sophisticated yet manageable shared resource management system, facilitating the collective construction within the shared home space.
We're also rolling out our new RV feature. Once you've created or joined a Hive, you may unlock and construct a Hive-exclusive garage to craft your very own heavy-duty truck. You can utilize materials, facilities, and circuits to design a mobile Territory on this truck, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience similar to building a stationary one.
For Metas in Warbands, these RVs can serve as powerful battering rams as well as sturdy shields. For Metas who want to experience caravan travel, we also offer modifications that consume fewer resources while ensuring enhanced mobility. We hope everyone enjoys their new life both in their Territory and on the go.
④Fishing
In the future, we'll offer even richer exploration and interactive experiences centered around water environments, with fishing being everyone's first taste of what's to come. Meta-Humans will have the opportunity to explore various bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and oceans, among others, in the expansive world. Each water location houses different fish species and unique characteristics, allowing you to strategically select your preferred fishing spots based on personal preferences and tactics.
Throw the bait, hook the fish... then it's time for the real challenge. You need to control its path and stamina, gradually bringing it closer to the shore. Only once it's close enough will you have the chance to hoist it out of the water and hold your trophy.
In addition to fishing for fun, you can also put the fish you've caught to good use. For instance, you can put them in an aquarium for viewing, use them to cook delicious dishes; or even freeze them to add an element of surprise to your battles.
III. Enhanced Combat Content & Gameplay
①Stronghold Conquest Updates: More Strongholds & War Declarations
During the CBT 1.0, we received feedback from some players who found it difficult to participate in Stronghold Conquest. Indeed, 6 Frontiers was too few. Therefore, in the second phase of the beta test, we have expanded the number of Frontiers from 6 to 20, aiming to accommodate a larger number of Warbands in the Stronghold Conquest experience.
We've also received feedback regarding the monopolization of Stronghold Conquest war declarations by top Warbands. The previous system of "first come, first served" for competing for war declaration qualifications did not provide a satisfactory experience. So, in this upcoming phase, we have made adjustments. Warbands will now have the opportunity to bid for qualifications using their funds. This new approach offers more freedom and strategic options, allowing you to strategically allocate limited resources to achieve your Warband's objectives. You can choose multiple approaches or save up Warband funds for an all-in gamble. All Warbands, regardless of their size, can secure Stronghold Conquest qualifications through well-planned strategies.
To avoid grindiness in getting war declarations, Warband funds will be accumulated by members donating supplies. There is a weekly limit on how much each player can donate, allowing players to contribute to their Warband's funds by engaging in basic activities without requiring excessive effort.
② Dakini's Arrival
As the season changes, powerful creatures from another dimension—the Dakini—will invade the world of Once Human.
Tentacles descend from the heavens, emanating and otherworldly purple glow of Stardust. Their immense size shrouded by clouds, these beings inspire both awe and trepidation as their full form remains partially concealed. In various locations across the vast world, Public Crisis Events arise as the result of the Dakini invasion. Only by joining forces can all the Metas hope to stand against this menacing incursion.
③Expanded Variety of Enemies
Our aim has always been to create a diverse, captivating, and unique monster designs. In this upcoming test, we have introduced even more new creatures, each with their own distinct appearance and style. From the Sentinel with a searchlight atop its head to the legged Tanker, from the colossal Lighthouse Siren to the nimble and lightweight Rainfall Reaper, this eclectic assortment of monsters is sure to provide a fresh and exhilarating experience.
The monsters' uniqueness extends not just to their appearances, but also their gameplay mechanics. Use the gas tank of a Tanker to cause a massive explosion, or take advantage of the Sentinel's Searchlight to advantageously slow-down and petrify enemies... or find your own unique combinations of gameplay mechanics and the Deviations' energy-absorbing abilities. Choose the right strategy, cleverly utilize the items in the environment and on the monsters, and find new, thrilling ways to survive!
④The Prime War
After conquering Stardust Swamp in Stronghold Conquest, you can use a device to analyze Staroids and gain an advantage against the Dakini. However, the energy dispersed during the analysis process will attract a massive Great One, corrupted by the Silver Plague, to hinder your progress...
The Silver Plague has granted the Great One new abilities, making it more ferocious and significantly reducing the Weapon DMG it takes. However, explosives and close-range turrets can tear through its shield, leaving it vulnerable to an all-out attack. Building walls and setting up bastilles may also hinder the Great One and its minions' attacks.
3. New, and More Weapons & Equipment
During the first phase of beta testing, we have listened attentively to the calls for more weapons and increased firepower from our players! Undoubtedly, fear arises when firepower is lacking. For this reason, in the second phase of the test, we've added a variety of new weapons to satisfy the desire for a more thrilling and diverse shooting experience.
①Compound Crossbow
Quality: Perfect
Skill: Gains Crit Rate and Reload Speed upon a hit, up to 3 stacks. Reaching full stacks triggers Unstable Bomber.
Design Concept: The Compound Crossbow is the top-tier option in the current Crossbow series. Its passive skill provides enhanced damage and mobility, and when combined with future add-ons like explosive arrows, it will perform well in mid-to-close-range combat.
②Grenade Launcher
Quality: Perfect
Design Concept: This weapon capitalizes on stationary attacks and excels in dealing with groups of enemies due to its passive effect, while also providing a buff AoE for the team when facing bosses, making it a versatile asset on the battlefield.
③The Fabled Masamune
Quality: Perfect
Skill: Gains DMG bonus based on its Durability. Quick-swapping grants an additional DMG bonus.
Design Concept: Based on the real characteristics of the katana, this passive skill is designed to make it a powerful weapon perfect for quick switching and finishing off enemies.
④Scourge
Quality: Perfect
Skill: Grants the wielder DMG bonus and Super Armor based on their lost HP. Defeating targets with heavy attacks restores HP.
Design Concept: This is a powerful and heavy-hitting weapon that deals high DMG with every strike. As it's also a weapon that plays with HP manipulation, players can live life on the edge with both HP loss and recovery to maximize both DMG and survivability.
⑤Flamethrower
Quality: Excellent
Skill: Ignites enemies upon multiple hits to deal continuous Fire DMG.
Design Concept: In the first phase, weapons with flames dealt Burn DMG over time and became favorites among players. The good reception inspired this melee powerhouse of a weapon, which is designed specifically to let everyone join in the fun of roasting enemies to a crisp.
4. A More Immersive Open World Experience
We're committed to giving you a more lifelike open world experience. So in this next beta test, we've made significant changes to the world, with more content to help you get a more up close and personal experience in this surreal setting.
I. More Narrative Open-world Elements and Immersion
You'll gradually get to uncover the mysteries of Once Human in this beta test with all of the added storylines and narrative content.
①Tutorial Adjustments & Journey Updates
To help new players better understand the setting and get a feel for Once Human right from the start, we've completely revamped the tutorials and restructured the Journey system. In the new version, players will unlock specific Journey modules corresponding to the Memetics they have acquired. This will assist players in adapting to the characteristics of each Memetic and rapidly mastering essential survival skills.
②Open-world Story Mission Additions
We've added over 50 tasks, most of which are no longer marked, allowing players to discover them organically during their exploration. These tasks not only offer generous rewards but also serve as a means for players to delve deeper into the lore of Once Human. As you embark on your quests, you may uncover mysteries and find answers, gaining a better understanding of the past and the present.
II. Updated World Exploration
To offer you a richer variety of random encounters and immersive experiences while exploring in the vast world, we have comprehensively updated World Exploration in Once Human.
①Riddle Spots
Across the vast world of Once Human, many objects have been warped by deviant forces. In the previous test, players greatly enjoyed the riddle-solving mechanics for the Strange Door, Highway Sign, and other Riddle Spots. This time, we have added even more of these mysterious deviations: torn billboards, giant lotus leaves, swaying Eyeballoons, cameras liquify into dark water and then transform into the player's image, and a doll that sporadically changes its location whenever players look away. It will be up to you to unravel these puzzles, dispel the deviants, and claim your rewards.
②Crates
We have received feedback from some players stating that the chances of encountering random events while exploring the wilderness were not high enough, and oftentimes they would have to travel long distances to come across points of interest. To address this issue, we've added new crate mechanics in the new version.
You may use your probing ability to locate these crates. Randomly encountered crates will also offer different gameplay experiences based on their unique characteristics. For example, players may come across immobile crates, erratic jumping crates, or even crates that have the ability to control lightning and more.
③Fog
In the CBT 1.0, Some players have pointed out that the foggy ambiance of the Public Crisis Event added a thrilling aspect to battles due to reduced visibility. In response to this, we've added area gameplay with low-visibility close-range combat/exploration, emphasizing the impact of limited visibility on players' personal experiences.
④Settlement Workshops
In the CBT 1.0, abandoned factories were a well-known location for gathering materials. In the new version, we have introduced special workshop areas. Some may locate deep within a factory, or even adjacent to a town overrun by Deviants. Players can temporarily occupy these workshops and utilize the existing production facilities to generate valuable resources.
That being said, with reward comes risk. While producing resources, the equipment will make noise which attracts nearby Deviants. You may have to quickly repurpose the workshop to defend yourself. Block entrances with abandoned vehicles in town and dismantle roofs to destroy enemy landing spots. You can also bolster your defenses by placing portable turrets and spike traps.
Of course, teamwork will improve your odds. We suggest calling on other Hive members to help you bolster your defenses and share resources.
⑤A More Powerful V
Remember your trusty companion V? In this test, we have made some major adjustments to V. Once you get to a certain stage in the game, V will become a constant presence by your side, accompanying you through your journey across the vast world. Whenever you encounter any difficulties or questions, V will be there to provide assistance and guidance through both voice and text communication.
You'll gain the Whim ability once you've secured the Deviation "Butterfly's Emissary". Empowered by this extraordinary ability, V will help you soaring through the skies in Once Human. When you find yourself in high places, you can command V to gracefully glide, swiftly guiding you to your desired destinations.
III. More Fun in the Open World
In Once Human, it's always best to adventure alongside friends. While you're out fighting Deviants, be sure to take some time, slow down your steps, smell the roses along your Journey and interact with other Meta-Humans.
①Photo-taking
In the CBT 1.0, saved photos are often crude screenshots with annoying UI and lonely Meta-Human silhouettes, making for dull images despite the wide swaths of scenery.
In response to this, we have introduced a new item: a Camera! By entering the photography mode, you can select between two lens types: landscape or selfie. Feel free to adjust the camera, perspective, weather, time, and even movement. Furthermore, you can embellish your photos with filters, stickers, and text to add your personal touch.
You can also frame the photos and decorate them in your Territory, or even input the photos into a gacha machine to create monster models posing just like the figures in the photos!
②Leave A Message in the World
In the CBT 1.0, many players reported that encounters with other players felt too brief, ultimately creating a profound sense of solitude in the expansive open world.
In response, we have introduced "Butterfly Echoes" in the new version, which is a byproduct of the anomaly "Butterfly's Emissary". Metas can leave messages on the ground within the game's scenes and also discover and read messages left by other Metas. The Butterfly Echoes system will intelligently recommend messages that may be helpful based on the player's location and relevant data. And of course, Metas can give "Likes" to messages, and when a message receives a certain number of "Likes", the sender will receive a corresponding reward.
We hope that Metas can use these messages as a way to support and encourage strangers, share game strategies, and even provide feedback on bugs or issues they encounter.
5. Seasonal Gameplay
During the test, we're planning to roll out new season scenarios for you to try out!
Each scenario has its own characteristics, with different rules, map layouts, collectibles, and gameplay mechanics. For instance, there are scenarios focused on exploring dark areas and defeating powerful enemies, intense battle scenarios, as well as relaxing scenarios for leisurely exploration. You can join any scenarios freely. Once you've completed the initial season content, feel free to explore different season scenarios. If you want to meet up with friends from different servers, why not select a scenario and embark on an extraordinary journey through different realms together?
We've also adjusted the length of each season in this upcoming test based on player feedback, extending it to six weeks, and giving you more time to explore the rich and immersive world at your own pace. We have also excited plans to introduce new gameplay mechanics and activities in future season updates, ensuring a diverse and fulfilling experience for all. Once a season comes to its end, there will also be a period of "free time" in which you can choose to stay in the current world a bit longer to complete any remaining challenges or continue your exploration. When you feel ready, you can then select your preferred scenario and embark on a brand new journey.
Apart from gameplay and pacing updates, we have also prepared a wealth of season rewards for our dedicated players! Winner Warbands will receive special visual displays such as new nametags, avatar frames, and more. But even that's not all – we are also adjusting the allocation of important items, linking more rewards to individual actions, ensuring that every player can enjoy a fruitful season with plenty of rewards.
Thank you for your interest and support in the upcoming test of Once Human! The development team genuinely values every player's suggestions and feedback, and we are committed to making improvements and changes based on them. We invite you once again to participate in the CBT 2.0 and witness how Once Human has evolved!
December 6, 2023
Starry Studio
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