What if you could rewrite the entire narrative of human history? How would you change the course of Humankind? These are the questions at the center of Humankind.

In Humankind, you'll be combining different cultures as you progress through the eras to create a civilization that's as unique as you are. Your goal is to accumulate as much fame – or infamy -- as possible. The journey matters more than the destination, and no great deed will go unnoticed. 

Standing at the center of civilization, Babylon is, was, and always will be one of the greatest cities the world has ever seen. It's your turn to write a chapter in its glorious history. How will you be remembered?

Ourselves, we hope to be remembered for our wonderful strategy games, always crafted with the community's input. Today we start that process for Humankind by giving access to a first 45-minute OpenDev scenario focused on exploration.  Two more scenarios will follow in the coming month.

A few key things to remember:

• Scenarios are time limited – each will be available from Thursday at 07:00 PDT/ 16:00 CEST/ 15:00 BST through Monday at the same time
• We will grant access to additional applicants with each new scenario – so players should keep checking their email in the coming weeks
• Getting access later grants access to all previous scenarios – In fact, we would prefer that newcomers play the scenarios in order as they have a bit of an onboarding logic to them
• Applications will remain open during the entire process – Even if you weren't selected for this first round, you can apply now for a chance to be included in the 2nd or 3rd wave of players

Last but certainly not least, a reminder about why we're doing OpenDev: to get your feedback. The game is still in an early state, and these scenarios are targeted to test out small slices and specific features.

Community input is extremely important to us and we want to work together to make Humankind an amazing game!

Here's what you can expect the day you launch your first game of Humankind:

• One million civilizations– Create your own unique civilization by combining 60 different historical cultures from across the heritage of humanity. Begin as Ancient Egypt, then evolve into the Romans, the Khmers, or perhaps the Vikings—the choice is up to you. Each culture brings its own special gameplay layer, leading to near-endless outcomes.
• More than history, it's your story - Face real historical events and figures, make great scientific discoveries, and visit the wonders of the world. Shape your people's beliefs and confront other players. Every decision you make adds a flourish to your story.
• In the eyes of posterity– The journey matters more than destination. Fame is a new and unifying victory condition. Every great deed you accomplish, every moral choice you make, every battle won will build your fame and leave a lasting impact on the world. The player with the most fame will win the game.
• A tactical world – Show off your tactical skills by mastering terrain elevation, city-building, full tactical battles and warfare. Choose the high ground for your city, and it will be harder to siege. Deploy your archers in the woods to avoid stampeding horsemen. Call upon your allies to help you in times of need and transform an epic battle into a full-scale multiplayer world war!

Humankind will release for PC/Mac in 2021.