Once Human, the free-to-play multiplayer survival game, will officially release on Xbox Series X|S and through the Xbox app on PC on 25 August 2026, publisher NetEase confirmed. This launch comes two years after the game originally debuted on PC and follows a mobile release in 2025.
The console version supports full cross-play and cross-progression, allowing players to link their existing accounts from PC and mobile platforms. Although not part of Xbox Play Anywhere, the game offers seamless progress across supported devices, which is significant for those who have been playing since launch.
Console Launch Features and Availability
In addition to cross-platform support, the Xbox versions will feature keyboard and mouse compatibility, marking an important inclusion for players seeking precision controls. The game retains its free-to-play model but will include optional paid packs offering premium items to aid players.
Once Human combines elements of survival and looter games with both PvE and opt-in PvP gameplay. Players take on the role of Meta-Humans navigating a supernatural apocalypse within a vast open world infected by a Stardust phenomenon. The game emphasises gathering resources, base-building, and defending territories against sieges.
Version Differences and Future Updates
At launch, the Xbox and PC app versions will not be fully aligned with the current state of the PC and mobile editions, which have accumulated substantial content over two years. A question and answer session on the official Once Human website clarified that the console version will catch up with other platforms over time to maintain consistency in content and features.
One notable absence from the Xbox listing so far is achievement support, an issue that has been a source of community feedback since the game’s initial Steam release. Whether achievements will be enabled at launch or added later remains unconfirmed.
Players anticipating the console release of Once Human can expect the game to arrive on Xbox Series X|S and PC on 25 August 2026, marking its first full console availability after years as a PC and mobile-exclusive title.
