Once Human Launches Confidential First-Person Pioneer Test for North America in June 2026
Once Human's confidential First Person Perspective Pioneer Test runs June 10–16, 2026 for 500 North American players via the live client.
The post-apocalyptic world of Once Human is about to trade its detached third-person camera for a far more intimate view. The development team has announced a confidential First Person Perspective Pioneer Test scheduled for June 10–June 16, 2026 (PT), with recruitment closing on June 4 (PT). The test is limited to North America and roughly 500 players. No separate client download is required; qualified participants will access the Pioneer Test through the current live game client, as if a hidden corridor suddenly opened inside a familiar structure.
This is not merely a camera adjustment. Removing the third-person view feels like lifting a sheet of glass that previously separated the player from the wasteland. For veterans of Manibus and Endless Dream, stepping into first person may feel like walking through a remembered house after the furniture has been rearranged under moonlight.
A Confidential, Data-Wiping Test
The Pioneer Test is an online, data-wiping confidential test. When the server closes, all character data on the First Person Pioneer Test server will be cleared. Participants must sign a non-disclosure agreement before entering, and unauthorized sharing of screenshots, videos, livestreams, or other test content is prohibited. Violations may result in account bans, linked-account bans, legal action, or other measures.
During this test, the First Person Perspective will be available in both the Manibus and Endless Dream scenarios. The development team has stressed that visuals, animations, UI, and other elements are not final and remain under polish. High-rarity Fashion items with unique appearances are not yet supported.
What Can Stay First-Person
The following experiences can be maintained in First Person mode throughout the test:
| Experience | Status |
|---|---|
| Basic movement controls | 🟢 Maintained in first person |
| Use of various weapons | 🟢 Maintained in first person |
| Throwables, medicine, and food | 🟢 Maintained in first person |
| Gathering with bare hands or a Pickaxe | 🟢 Maintained in first person |
| Collecting supplies in the wilderness | 🟢 Maintained in first person |
Some mechanics are still tethered to third-person to keep the test stable. Melee attacks, Electric Chainsaws, Electric Drills, and underwater exploration will remain third-person during this test. The team says melee attacks, Electric Chainsaws, and Electric Drills will receive a complete first-person experience at official launch, and underwater exploration will follow in the future.
Recruitment and Access
Recruitment closes on June 4, 2026 (PT). Candidates must complete the official survey and provide accurate information, including device specs, gaming background, and play preferences. Within three business days after recruitment closes, the team will review applications and notify qualified players by email or SMS. Selected players must sign the NDA before entering.
Once qualified, players will be prompted to enter the Pioneer Test server when logging into the game. They can still play other scenarios and switch back to the Pioneer Test at any time through the Mode Switch option in the upper left corner.
Switching to First Person
The perspective toggle will only be visible in the designated test environment. Players can switch via Settings on PC or mobile, add the Switch Camera command to the Function Wheel, use a shortcut key on PC, or enable a quick button on mobile. The mobile quick button is hidden by default and can be found in Customize.
Early First-Person Preview
Although melee attacks remain third-person during the Pioneer Test, the preview shows where close combat is headed. In the First Person Perspective, slashes, charged heavy attacks, and other melee actions feel more responsive and intuitive, with a clearer sense of buildup, release, and impact.
Other planned differences include:
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🎯 Feel every shot in your own hands – aiming, shooting, and reloading from the player's own point of view.
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⚔️ More intense combat – enemies can appear at the edge of vision and bullets can fly past the player, changing distance judgment and spatial awareness.
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🌍 More immersive exploration – familiar Manibus landscapes and the dreamlike light and shadow of Endless Dream feel new again.
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💊 More immersive survival items – eating, using consumables, and throwing items feel closer to the action.
Pioneer Test Rewards and Feedback
Participation rewards are delivered by in-game mail. Players who log in on Days 1 through 6 can claim 100 Wish Emblem each day, while Day 7 grants 300 Wish Emblem. Wish Emblems can be exchanged for rewards in Events > Shop > Starwish Shop.
| Login Period | Wish Emblem Reward |
|---|---|
| Days 1–6 | 100 per day |
| Day 7 | 300 |
The team will also launch a dedicated feedback event for the First Person Pioneer Test. Players can share thoughts on first-person camera behavior, weapon handling, combat feel, item use, exploration, and gathering. A separate announcement will explain participation, point calculation, and feedback rewards.
The developers describe the test as a calibration pass, not a finished debut. Every piece of feedback will help shape later adjustments to the First Person Perspective. As the June 2026 window approaches, selected Metas will get an early chance to feel the apocalypse through their own eyes.