If you’re on the hunt for an exciting new game on PlayStation 5, you’ll want to keep an eye on Once Human, an upcoming open-world RPG that has been turning heads with its blend of Bloodborne-style dark fantasy, post-apocalyptic survival, and immersive exploration. Best of all? It’s completely free and doesn’t require a PlayStation Plus subscription to enjoy.
Once Human: A Unique Open-World Experience Coming to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S
Once Human has already established itself as a hit among PC gamers, having been available on Steam for over a year. Developed by Starry Studio, this ambitious survival RPG transports players to a grim, post-apocalyptic future full of eldritch horrors, reminiscent of the terrifying monsters you’d find in Bloodborne. Additionally, the game’s world-building draws inspiration from iconic titles like Days Gone and Fallout, creating a rich, atmospheric tapestry filled with danger and mystery.
The gameplay mixes cooperative multiplayer elements where you can team up with friends to fight enemies, uncover hidden conspiracies, compete for scarce resources, and fortify your own territory. Survival mechanics bear similarities to Valheim, ensuring that exploration and resource management are as critical as combat prowess.
Despite being free-to-play, Once Human boasts “Mostly Positive” reviews on Steam, with over 76,000 player reviews lauding its addictive and immersive gameplay. This success has paved the way for its anticipated launch on consoles in 2026, where PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S owners will finally get to experience it firsthand.
Massive Open World with Diverse Biomes and Dynamic Gameplay
One of the most impressive aspects of Once Human is its scale. The game world spans a staggering 16 by 16 kilometers, broken into four distinct biomes that offer varied environments and unique challenges. This vast map encourages exploration and discovery, filled with quests and side missions to keep players engaged for hours on end.
Traversing this expansive landscape without a vehicle can be an arduous task, so securing an early-game vehicle like a motorcycle is crucial for making fast progress. Whether you prefer to explore solo or with friends, the open world challenges you to survive while adapting to its hostile creatures and shifting environmental threats.
What Sets Once Human Apart? Free Access and No PS Plus Requirement
In a market filled with high-profile, often expensive titles, Once Human stands out boldly by being fully free-to-play. This means PlayStation players can dive into this rich and atmospheric open-world experience without needing a PlayStation Plus subscription. With the growing anticipation around big releases like GTA 6, Once Human offers the perfect alternative for gamers wanting a fresh, immersive RPG that won’t cost a dime.
More than just a survival game, its deep lore, multiplayer co-op, and the haunting aesthetic inspired by classics like Bloodborne make it a must-play for fans of dark, atmospheric RPGs. Plus, its planned launch on console platforms next year ensures that more players will get to experience its unique blend of mechanics and storytelling.
The Future is Bright for Open-World RPG Fans on Consoles
Looking ahead to 2026, the release of Once Human alongside other free titles like Where Winds Meet signals a resurgence of expansive, no-cost open-world games for console gamers. It’s an exciting time to be a PlayStation or Xbox player, especially for those seeking new, engaging multiplayer survival games with depth and variety.
The combination of its large map, survival mechanics, and visually stunning, eerie design promises that Once Human will be a standout title. It offers something fresh and different in a genre dominated by high-budget franchises, all while being easily accessible.
Conclusion
Once Human is poised to become one of the most talked-about free-to-play open-world RPGs available for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in 2026. With its Bloodborne-inspired eldritch creatures, expansive map, robust survival gameplay, and co-op multiplayer features, it’s the perfect game for fans of dark, atmospheric worlds and post-apocalyptic adventures. Best of all, PlayStation users won’t need PS Plus to play this epic title.
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