Once Human, the latest free-to-play title from NetEase, has quickly captured the attention of the gaming community, not only for its engaging gameplay and fair monetization practices but also for a controversy that’s brewing among its players. At the heart of the discussion is a specific in-game element—a door marked “SHELTER”—that has sparked a debate over whether it serves as a nod to Remedy Entertainment’s Control or represents a less flattering imitation.
The Controversial Door: Easter Egg or Rip-Off?
The door in question features several design similarities with those found in Control. Both doors are large, metallic, and bear the label “SHELTER” prominently. They also display a yellow band indicating maximum occupancy, along with similar texts detailing the shelter model, ID, and protection ratings. The positioning of these texts and even the font used have led to comparisons between the two games.
Community Reactions
The reaction within the Once Human community has been mixed. Some players appreciate the homage, viewing the similarities as a subtle easter egg that gives a nod to Control—a game celebrated for its unique art style and mechanics. These players often cite the overall “Control vibes” of Once Human, from its environmental design to gameplay elements like telekinesis, as indications that the similarities might be intentional tributes.
However, other segments of the community feel that the likeness goes beyond mere homage. Critics argue that the door’s design is too close to its counterpart in Control, suggesting a lack of originality. This sentiment is echoed by players who feel that Once Human incorporates too many elements from various games, resulting in a game that lacks a distinct identity. Comparisons to “AI-generated art” underline some players’ dissatisfaction with what they perceive as derivative design choices.
Developer Response and Community Impact
As of now, responses from NetEase and StarryStudios, the developers behind Once Human, are pending. The community eagerly awaits their commentary, hoping for insights into the design process that might clarify whether these similarities were indeed respectful nods or unfortunate oversights.
Broader Implications for Game Design
This controversy highlights a larger conversation in the gaming industry about the fine line between homage and imitation. In an era where game development is more visible and scrutinized than ever, how developers draw inspiration from existing games is frequently discussed among players and critics alike. The outcome of this debate could influence future design decisions, not only for Once Human but for other games in the industry.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The discussion surrounding the “SHELTER” door in Once Human is a reflection of the broader challenges facing game designers in balancing inspiration with innovation. Whether deemed an easter egg or a rip-off, this incident underscores the complexities of creative influence in game development and the passionate engagement of the gaming community in these debates. As the conversation continues, it will be interesting to see how NetEase addresses the feedback and what this means for the future of Once Human.
Also Read:
- Ghost of Tsushima Sequel, Ghost of Yotei, Announced for PS5
- PS Plus Premium Adds 3 Exciting Games for 2024, Including Dino Crisis
- PS Plus Free Games for October 2024: WWE 2K24, Dead Space, and More
- Mortal Kombat 1 Reveals Peacemaker’s Epic Animality in Khaos Reigns DLC
- Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii to Be Larger Than Gaiden
