Once Human debuts holiday update for 2025 with new dungeons and an island to explore

Once Human is the latest game to embrace the holiday spirit.
Expect a fully themed island and New Year’s celebration, complete with exclusive rewards.
Meanwhile, dive into the Crimson Night Showdown event for intense, hardcore challenges.

We’re deep into the Christmas season—and you know what that means: even more festive updates. This time, NetEase is building on its The Dawning update for Destiny: Rising with a brand-new holiday event for Once Human, bringing seasonal chills and thrills.

The centerpiece is a brand-new Christmas-themed island. To honor the festive season, the giant tree at its heart will grow taller as players contribute, unlocking tickets to a special new minigame packed with lucrative holiday rewards.

Of course, it’s not all cheer and gifts—the Crimson Night Showdown event is also launching. It introduces three new dungeons: the Red Vulture Combat Zone, the Esoteric Altar, and the Hunting Grounds. Available now through January 21st, each offers ten floors of tough enemies to conquer.

More festive than ever

As you might expect—given its rollout on Garena’s Free Fire and NetEase’s Destiny: Rising—the Starlight Gala is arriving on December 30th, marking the year’s grand finale.

Step into an in-game party brimming with gifts for the first to claim them, alongside interactive instruments, photo-worthy spots, and dazzling holiday decorations. Plus, Once Human will roll out numerous giveaways and special events throughout the season. If you haven’t joined yet, now might be the perfect moment to dive in.

In the meantime, if you’re curious about the year’s standout releases, explore our ever-expanding list of the best mobile games of 2025—for our top picks so far.