Gameplay Guide

Once Human PvP & PvE Guide

Everything you need to know about PvP and PvE in Once Human: how to disable PvP on PvE servers, co-op multiplayer, solo play, game modes, scenarios, specializations and first-person mode.

PvP vs PvE Overview

Once Human offers both Player vs Player (PvP) and Player vs Environment (PvE) gameplay experiences. Players can choose between different server types based on their preferred playstyle, from peaceful cooperative building to intense open-world combat.

Feature PvE Servers PvP Servers
Player combatDisabled (optional toggle)Enabled (open-world)
Base raidingProtectedPossible during raid hours
Loot on deathKeep itemsMay drop items
Best forCasuals, builders, solo playersCompetitive players, PvP enthusiasts
World bossesCooperativeCompetitive (fighting over kills)
Resource nodesShared, no conflictMay be contested

PvP Mode

PvP (Player vs Player) in Once Human allows players to engage in combat with each other in open-world environments, designated PvP zones, and competitive game modes. PvP servers offer a more challenging and competitive experience with base raiding and loot mechanics.

PvP Features

  • • Open-world player combat in PvP zones
  • • Base and territory raiding during raid hours
  • • Loot drops on player death (full-loot servers)
  • • Arena and competitive match modes
  • • Faction and alliance warfare
  • • Territory control and resource disputes
  • • Seasonal PvP rankings and rewards

PvP Tips

  • • Build defensible bases with traps and turrets
  • • Store valuable items in protected storage
  • • Join an alliance for mutual protection
  • • Use stealth and camouflage to avoid detection
  • • Equip PvP-optimized weapons and armor
  • • Learn raid windows and plan accordingly
  • • Use Deviants with combat abilities in PvP

PvE Mode

PvE (Player vs Environment) focuses on cooperative gameplay against AI-controlled enemies, Deviants, world bosses, and environmental challenges. PvE servers offer a more relaxed experience where players can build, explore, and progress without the threat of other players attacking them.

PvE Features

  • • Player vs Player combat is disabled by default
  • • Bases are protected from raiding
  • • Cooperative world boss fights and events
  • • Shared resource nodes (no stealing)
  • • Focus on PvE content: quests, dungeons, exploration
  • • Optional PvP toggle for those who want to duel
  • • Best for casual players, builders, and solo survivors

How to Disable PvP on PvE Servers

On PvE servers, PvP is disabled by default. However, some servers may offer an optional PvP toggle that allows players to engage in combat if both parties consent. Here is how to manage your PvP settings.

PvP Toggle Instructions

  1. Open the game settings menu (Esc or Settings icon)
  2. Navigate to the Gameplay or PvP settings tab
  3. Look for the "PvP Toggle" or "Player Combat" option
  4. Set it to "Disabled" to prevent PvP combat
  5. Some servers may require a cooldown before toggling
  6. Note: On dedicated PvP servers, PvP cannot be disabled
  7. If you do not see the option, your server may be PvP-only
Tip: If you want a completely PvE-free experience, make sure to select a PvE-labeled server when creating your character. Server types are clearly marked in the server selection screen.

Co-op & Multiplayer

Once Human features robust cooperative multiplayer, allowing players to team up with friends to explore, build, fight, and progress together. The game supports cross-platform co-op between PC, iOS, and Android.

How to Play Co-op

  1. Ensure you and your friends are on the same server and region
  2. Add each other as friends through the in-game friend list
  3. Send a party invite or join your friend's party
  4. Meet up in the game world at a shared location or fast travel point
  5. Build a shared base or territory together
  6. Participate in cooperative world events and boss fights

Co-op Benefits

  • • Shared base building and resource gathering
  • • Easier boss fights and world events
  • • Revive downed teammates
  • • Trade items and resources
  • • Shared quest progress
  • • Better survival chances in dangerous areas

Party Size

  • • Standard party: up to 4 players
  • • Larger groups for world events
  • • Alliances for massive cooperative play
  • • Cross-platform: PC + iOS + Android
  • • Voice chat built-in (or use Discord)

Solo Play

Once Human can be enjoyed entirely as a solo player. The game is designed to accommodate both cooperative and solo playstyles, with content scaling and mechanics that allow individual players to progress at their own pace.

Solo Play Tips

  • • Choose a PvE server for a peaceful solo experience
  • • Tame Deviants to assist in combat and gathering
  • • Prioritize defense upgrades for your base
  • • Use stealth to avoid dangerous encounters
  • • Some world bosses may be challenging solo — consider grouping
  • • Use the Cradle system for permanent cross-season progression
  • • Focus on a balanced build that can handle multiple situations
  • • You can still trade and interact with other players at safe zones
  • • Solo players can access all story content and most activities

Game Modes

Once Human offers various game modes and server types to cater to different playstyles. Understanding these modes helps you choose the right server and gameplay experience.

Standard Survival (PvE)

The default game mode focused on PvE survival, building, exploration, and cooperative gameplay. Player combat is disabled, making it ideal for casual players and those who prefer a peaceful experience.

Full-Loot PvP

A hardcore PvP mode where players drop their inventory on death. Bases can be raided during designated hours. This mode is for competitive players who enjoy high-risk, high-reward gameplay.

Seasonal Servers

Time-limited servers that reset at the end of each season. Players start fresh and compete for seasonal rankings and rewards. The Cradle system allows permanent progression to carry over to future seasons.

Scenario Modes

Special instanced scenarios with unique rules, objectives, and rewards. These include the Manibus scenario and other limited-time game modes that offer a change of pace from the standard survival experience.

Scenarios (Manibus)

Scenarios are special game modes in Once Human that offer unique gameplay experiences separate from the main open world. The Manibus scenario is one of the notable scenario modes, featuring its own rules, progression, and rewards.

Manibus Scenario

  • • A special instanced scenario with unique gameplay mechanics
  • • Features its own map, objectives, and progression system
  • • May include special enemies, bosses, and loot not found in the main world
  • • Scenario-specific rewards that can be used in the main game
  • • May have time limits or special win conditions
  • • Can be played solo or with a party
  • • Check the in-game scenario menu for availability and entry requirements
Scenarios may rotate or be available only during specific seasons or events. Always check the in-game scenario interface for the latest available modes, entry requirements, and reward details.

Specializations & Classes

Once Human features a specialization system that allows players to customize their character's playstyle and abilities. Specializations focus on different aspects of survival, combat, and support, allowing players to create unique builds for various situations.

Specialization Focus Best For
SurvivorDurability, gathering, survivalSolo players, gatherers, explorers
Combat / SoldierDamage, weapons, PvPPvP enthusiasts, boss hunters
Builder / EngineerBase building, crafting, techBase designers, crafters
Medic / SupportHealing, buffs, team supportCo-op players, party supports
Deviant HandlerDeviant taming, pet combatPet collectors, Deviant fighters
Scout / RangerStealth, mobility, rangedExplorers, ranged combat
For a detailed class tier list and build recommendations, see our Tier List page. Specializations can be reset or changed, allowing you to experiment with different playstyles.

First Person Mode

Once Human supports both third-person and first-person camera modes. Players can switch between perspectives depending on their preference and the situation, with first-person offering greater immersion and precision for combat and exploration.

Switching to First Person

  • • Press the camera toggle key (default: V or mouse wheel click) to switch perspectives
  • • First-person mode is available in most situations
  • • Some vehicles or specific actions may force third-person
  • • First-person offers better aiming precision for ranged combat
  • • Third-person provides better situational awareness
  • • Choose the perspective that best suits your playstyle
  • • Camera settings can be adjusted in the options menu

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Once Human PvE or PvP? +
Once Human offers both PvE and PvP server types. PvE servers disable player combat and base raiding, while PvP servers enable open-world combat and raiding. Players can choose their preferred server type when creating a character.
Can you disable PvP in Once Human? +
On PvE servers, PvP is disabled by default and cannot be enabled. Some PvE servers may offer an optional consensual PvP toggle. On dedicated PvP servers, PvP is always enabled and cannot be disabled. Choose a PvE server if you want no PvP.
Can you play Once Human solo? +
Yes, Once Human can be played entirely solo. Choose a PvE server for the best solo experience. Tame Deviants to assist in combat and gathering, focus on defense for your base, and progress through all story content at your own pace. Some world bosses may be challenging solo but are still possible with the right build.
Is Once Human co-op? +
Yes, Once Human features cooperative multiplayer. Players can form parties of up to 4 players, build shared bases, fight world bosses together, trade items, and revive downed teammates. The game supports cross-platform co-op between PC, iOS, and Android.
What is the Manibus scenario in Once Human? +
The Manibus scenario is a special instanced game mode in Once Human with its own unique rules, map, objectives, and rewards. It offers a different gameplay experience from the standard open-world survival mode. Check the in-game scenario menu for current availability, entry requirements, and reward details.
Does Once Human have first-person mode? +
Yes, Once Human supports both first-person and third-person camera modes. Press the camera toggle key (default V or mouse wheel click) to switch between perspectives. First-person offers better aiming precision, while third-person provides better situational awareness.

Choose Your Playstyle

Whether you prefer peaceful PvE building, competitive PvP combat, or solo exploration, Once Human has a server and playstyle for you.

Beginner Guide Weapons & Builds