Krafton, the South Korean game developer, initially hinted that Subnautica 2 would take a multiplayer-focused approach, causing some confusion among fans eagerly awaiting the sequel. However, developer Unknown Worlds has since clarified that the game will not be multiplayer-focused. In Krafton’s financial report, they referred to Subnautica 2 as a “multiplayer sequel to the original IP pursuing fandom snowballing.” However, they have now stated that the game will feature co-op multiplayer, built on a “games-as-a-service model.”
Furthermore, they emphasized that Subnautica 2 will share similarities with the early access of previous games in the series. Importantly, there will be no battle passes or subscriptions involved. Krafton stated, “In reference to ‘Games-as-a-Service,’ we simply plan to continually update the game for many years to come, just like the previous two Subnautica games. Think our Early Access update model, expanded. No season passes. No battle passes. No subscription.”
Subnautica 2 will mark the third game in the Unknown World series, following the original game released in 2018 and its sequel, Subnautica: Below Zero.
Upon hearing about the multiplayer aspect, some fans expressed disappointment as they were eagerly awaiting a solo, self-contained version similar to the previous Subnautica games. In response, Unknown World promptly clarified on their blog that the game would not be multiplayer-focused. They reassured fans that co-op would be entirely optional, and players could still enjoy the game as a single-player experience.
These statements came as a follow-up to the earlier confusion, with Unknown World providing a detailed and clear explanation of the game’s features. Additionally, they announced that Subnautica 2 is not expected to be released in 2024, with further information to be provided later in the year.