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. 

When we announced that the release date for Humankind was moving, many players reached out and asked if they would have an opportunity to play again between now and release. The answer is yes, of course! 

Starting today, any player who has pre-purchased the game on Steam or the Epic Games Store can access the Victor OpenDev and play as Victor Hugo's avatar from the Neolithic to the Early Modern era or 150 turns – whichever comes first.

Quite a few changes have been integrated since the "Lucy OpenDev" from last December. Players will be playing on a new fixed map with lots of water, so things will be more focused on naval gameplay (maps will be randomly generated in the game at release).

We've also integrated lots of changes based on the feedback we got during the Lucy OpenDev and are very excited for you to check them out!

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 be released on PC (Steam, Epic Games Store) and Stadia as well as retail on August 17, 2021.