Once Human’s newest PvE scenario, The Way of Winter, is finally here. The Way of Winter brings the element of environmental survival into an already chaotic post-apocalyptic world. You will need to learn to survive in the face of biting cold and blistering heat. Gearing up in Once Human has always been about strategy, but in The Way of Winter, strategizing gear is absolutely vital to survival.

Let’s break down how to stay alive in The Way of Winter by managing environmental hazards, utilizing special gear, and understanding the key survival mechanics.

Treating Environmental Ailments

In The Way of Winter, the primary challenge is dealing with the harsh weather elements. One misstep in managing the cold could lead to hypothermia, which rapidly reduces your health. You want to keep your body temperature in the “cozy” state. To counter the extreme cold, you'll need to take immediate action by finding heat sources like campfires, building your mobile camp, carrying a torch as your melee weapon, or using Thermal Towers—structures that can modify the environment to provide warmth over a wide area, which will become available in Phase 2. Unfortunately, the upgraded camp doesn’t warm you up. You will need your rugged, original tent. You can also drink hot beverages and eat soups to warm you up.

If you find yourself freezing and dying in Once Human: Way of Winter, check to make sure you’ve unlocked the Memetic “Polar Expedition I” under the Infrastructure tree. Polar Expedition I unlocks the ability to turn gravel into Thermoium, Heatium, and Coldium. Keep Heatium in your bags to keep you warm while adventuring. Use wisely because they last for one hour and do not stack. You’ll want to also unlock Chaosium and Polar Expedition II under the same memetic tree. Polar Expedition II allows you to make a portable lantern at the Intermittent and Advanced Supplies Bench. This lantern keeps you warm by using Chaosium as fuel. Add the lantern to your quick bar for easy access. The best way to get Chaosium is by killing Vultures. I would advise you to use the lantern in desperate situations, as it burns through 10 Chaosium very quickly.

And on the opposite side of the extreme cold is the extreme heat, where heatstroke is a real danger in desert regions or during volcanic storms. To beat the heat, you must stay hydrated, take cover in shady spots, and use campfires wisely to maintain a balance between staying warm and avoiding overheating. Similar to cold temperatures, certain crops and crafted items in the game can also regulate your body temperature, offering a temporary buffer against harsh conditions.

Managing Body Temperature: Cold and Heat Survival

Combat the Cold

The Way of Winter has introduced weather resistance gear. When you first begin, you will be instructed to craft gear that is cold resistant. The Wish Machine also has a new gear set, Blackstone that has 2.5% Cold and Heat Resistance at base.

When the environment starts to freeze, choose gear with cold resistance. Layered clothing and crafted items can prevent dangerous body temperature drops. Bear and seal pelts increase cold resistance.

Additionally, keep warm food and drinks on hand. Look for newer recipes, like Salty Roasted Spikemato, that have Food Effect: Cold Relief, which increases your resistance to cold. Some recipes from the previous scenario, like Fruit Cake, will work because it allows you to swap out old fruit ingredients for the new Spikemato.

Also, while traveling on foot, keep a torch in hand, especially if traveling at night. Stay close to Thermal Towers when possible or build fires at strategic points to maintain warmth during extended travels.

Beat the Heat

When you find yourself in hotter areas, such as volcanic zones of Ember Strands, you will need to stay cool and hydrated to stay alive. To prevent heat exhaustion, make sure to stay hydrated and rest in cooler areas. Lighter clothing with high breathability is also crucial to managing body heat. Cold compresses and chilled beverages can help bring down elevated body temperature, allowing you to function better in sweltering conditions. Ember Strands is a higher level area and will open later in a later phase.

Gear Up: Surviving with the Right Equipment

Preparation is key to surviving The Way of Winter. The scenario introduces a variety of weapons, armor, and equipment to help you withstand the fluctuating temperatures. New blueprints can be unlocked to craft specialized gear, including clothing that adjusts to cold or hot environments.

• Thermal Gear: Equip clothing that increases your resistance to cold or heat. This will give you longer periods of comfort and protection against environmental damage.

• Weapons and Mods: Throughout your journey, you'll encounter opportunities to enhance your weapons and modify gear to improve your chances of survival. Find cold and heat resistance and fast recovery mods for your gear.

Look to Securement Silos and challenges for resources that will help you survive longer in extreme conditions.

Scenario Challenges: Strategic Planning and Quick Thinking

The Way of Winter requires more than just reacting to changing conditions—it demands forethought. Make sure you’re stocked up on supplies, and always have a plan for managing both cold and heat before you leave out on your missions.

Each area of The Way of Winter is unique, with different environmental hazards ranging from snowstorms to volcanic eruptions. Learn how to navigate the icy tundras of Vena Fjord and the fiery landscapes of Ember Strand. For example, if you’re in the Vena Fjord and Onyx Tundra, you’ll need heavy thermal gear, but in the Ember Strand, you’ll have to prioritize lighter, more breathable gear to stay cool.

Stay warm, stay cool, and most importantly, stay alive in The Way of Winter!