Once Human, the highly anticipated multiplayer survival game developed by Starry Studio and published by NetEase, made its debut on July 9th on PC via Steam. Despite a promising start, the game encountered significant server issues over the launch weekend due to unexpectedly high player traffic.
Successful Launch and High Player Engagement
Once Human quickly garnered attention upon release, achieving a peak of 231,668 simultaneous players on Steam. This enthusiastic reception highlighted the game’s appeal and the anticipation among gamers for its unique gameplay features and open-world environment.
Server Challenges and Player Frustration
However, the influx of players far exceeded the studio’s initial expectations, leading to widespread server instability throughout the weekend. Issues reported included difficulty in joining friends due to full servers and long queue times to access game servers.
In response to these challenges, Starry Studio acknowledged the issues and implemented server caps to manage the load effectively. Each server was capped between 6,000 to 8,000 simultaneous players to prevent overcrowding and ensure a smoother gameplay experience for those able to connect.
Developer Response and Future Plans
In a statement on Steam, Starry Studio apologized for the disruptions and assured players that they are actively working on improvements. A patch scheduled for July 18th aims to address some of the server-related issues, alongside plans to offer compensation to affected players who experienced excessive wait times.
Community Feedback and Concerns
While the launch has been praised for its gameplay mechanics and immersive world, some players have raised concerns about privacy and the use of the NetEase launcher. Others have expressed frustration over mandatory resets each season and the limitations of character-bound cosmetic items.
Conclusion
Despite these challenges, Once Human’s successful launch underscores the growing popularity of free-to-play games and the vibrant gaming community on Steam. As the developers continue to refine the game and address feedback, players can expect ongoing updates and improvements to enhance their gaming experience.
Stay tuned for more updates and developments as Once Human evolves in response to player feedback and technical adjustments.
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