Once Human Remains Popular with 230,000 Peak Players

NetEase's post-apocalyptic survival game, Once Human, has achieved a noteworthy 230,000 peak concurrent players on Steam since its PC debut. This impressive launch also secured it a position as the seventh top seller and fifth most-played game. However, the game's initial player numbers suggest a potential decline in active players.

Scheduled for a mobile release in September, Once Human has already announced exciting updates. These include a PvP mode pitting the Mayflies and Rosetta factions against each other, and a new PvE area in a challenging northern mountain region, introducing fresh enemies and challenges. Set in a world ravaged by a catastrophic event leading to supernatural occurrences, Once Human is one of NetEase's most anticipated titles.

Despite its apparent readiness, NetEase has surprisingly delayed the mobile launch, although it remains scheduled for September. Nevertheless, Once Human maintains its strong position as a top seller and most-played game on Steam.

A Cause for Concern?

The reported 230,000 player count represents a peak number; the average player count is likely lower. This initial drop-off from the peak, so soon after launch, might be a cause for concern for NetEase, especially given the game's initial Steam wishlist count of under 300,000.

While NetEase is a mobile gaming giant, its shift toward the PC market is significant. Although Once Human boasts impressive graphics and gameplay, a rapid shift in primary audience might be overly ambitious.

Regardless, the mobile release of Once Human is highly anticipated. While you wait, explore our list of the best mobile games of 2024 (so far) and our list of the year's most anticipated mobile games to discover other exciting titles.