NetEase Games has officially confirmed the mobile release date of Once Human, a post-apocalyptic survival game that has generated massive buzz. The game will arrive on Android and iOS on April 23, 2025.
This announcement is significant for mobile gamers and fans of open-world survival titles.
Since its original debut on PC, Once Human has steadily built a passionate global following. The mobile release now opens the door for millions of new players.
It’s a move that marks a significant step in NetEase’s strategy to expand across platforms.
More than 30 million players have already pre-registered. That figure alone speaks volumes about the game’s momentum. It also sets the stage for one of the year’s most significant mobile survival launches.
Players who pre-register will earn exclusive in-game rewards. These include cosmetic items, in-game currency, and unique weapon skins. More excitingly, players will also get a chance to win physical prizes like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
This incentive system reflects a growing trend in mobile games. Developers now use pre-registration events to drive excitement and community participation.
However, the buzz isn’t just about rewards. NetEase has been working behind the scenes to enhance the entire gameplay experience. Several new features have already been implemented or are about to go live.
One of the most notable additions is the launch of Non-Shutdown Servers, which went live on March 13. This feature allows players to continue progressing through different game scenarios without experiencing server wipes.
Traditionally, server wipes reset player progress, often frustrating long-time users. Players can retain their characters, gear, and achievements with persistent servers.
As a result, the gameplay becomes more immersive. Players can build their bases, alliances, and characters without fear of starting over. This system encourages deeper gameplay and more time spent in Once Human.
But that’s not all. Starting March 27, NetEase will introduce another powerful feature—Cross-Character Sharing. This system allows players to share resources and gear between characters under the same account.
Players can transfer blueprints, weapon mods, accessories, and cosmetics from one character to another, allowing greater flexibility in exploring different playstyles.
It also reduces the grind of unlocking the same items repeatedly.
This is a big deal for those who like experimenting with new builds or roles. Players no longer need to restart their entire inventory for each character. It’s a user-friendly update that rewards creativity and diversity in gameplay.
At the same time, NetEase continues expanding the PvE (Player vs. Environment) experience. On March 13, the studio launched the Lunar Oracle Phase Three update, which adds a new dimension of cooperative challenges to the game.
Players now face powerful enemies in a dreamlike, constantly shifting battleground. These scenarios demand coordination, strategy, and teamwork, and each encounter offers something different from the last.
Unlike static raids in many online games, these dreamscapes adapt and evolve, keeping players on their toes and adding replay value to an already content-rich world.
PvE fans looking for fresh, unpredictable encounters will find this update appealing. It highlights NetEase’s focus on innovation and replayability. This is not just more content—it’s more innovative content.
Furthermore, these updates aren’t isolated to mobile players. They also apply to existing PC users. NetEase is aiming for a unified ecosystem across platforms.
This cross-platform consistency means no player is left behind. The game world remains the same whether you play on PC or mobile, fostering a stronger, more connected community.
Beyond gameplay mechanics, Once Human is also defined by its setting. The world is grim, eerie, and full of supernatural horrors. Players must survive in a post-apocalyptic landscape overtaken by mysterious alien matter.
This world design is a core reason for the game’s popularity. It blends classic survival gameplay with sci-fi horror and environmental storytelling. Every corner of the map tells a story.
Players must gather resources, build shelters, and fend off human and otherworldly enemies. They also explore anomalies and unearth the origins of the alien corruption. It’s survival with a heavy dose of mystery and lore.
NetEase has made it clear that Once Human isn’t a static product. It’s a live-service game that will evolve. The team is committed to frequent updates, new modes, and player-requested features.
That approach mirrors the success of other live games like Genshin’s Impact or Fortnite. Developers continually improve the game based on community feedback. It builds trust, loyalty, and longevity.
Moreover, the mobile version isn’t a simplified port. It will offer the whole survival experience with optimized controls and interface. Players can expect console-like graphics, intuitive touch controls, and smooth performance.
NetEase has invested heavily in adapting the game for mobile hardware. The aim is to deliver a seamless experience that rivals the PC version. Early impressions suggest they’re on the right track.
By expanding to mobile, NetEase also taps into a wider audience. Many players prefer gaming on the go, so now they can enjoy Once Human anywhere, anytime.
It’s a smart business move, especially in regions where mobile dominates the market. Asia, Latin America, and Europe have seen explosive mobile gaming growth. NetEase is targeting those audiences.
The game also supports cross-progression. Players can switch between mobile and PC without losing progress, making it more accessible and adaptable to different lifestyles.
Whether commuting, at home, or taking a break at work, your survival journey continues. That flexibility adds a new convenience layer to a complex and immersive game.
The mobile version will also support voice chat, clan systems, and social hubs. Community is at the heart of Once Human. NetEase understands that games thrive when players feel connected.
Looking ahead, the launch of Once Human on mobile could redefine what survival games can be. It proves that high-quality open-world experiences are no longer confined to consoles or desktops. Mobile is the new frontier.
With over 30 million pre-registrations, the hype is undeniable. Expectations are high, but NetEase seems confident in its ability to deliver.
The countdown has begun. Players eager to join the fight for survival can still pre-register via the official Once Human website. Exclusive rewards, immersive gameplay, and thrilling battles await.
Stay tuned as April 23 approaches. A new era in survival gaming is almost here. And it’s coming to the palm of your hand.
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About the author
Christopher Brooks is a computer and information researcher with a passion for advancing digital technologies. He holds a Master's Degree in Computer Science from MIT and has been applying his knowledge to further the fields of cyber security, consumer electronics, artificial intelligence, data science, and more. In his free time, Christopher enjoys biking and hiking.
