Survival games have a way of pulling players in, often without them realizing why. Anthony Gallegos, designer for Subnautica 2, shared an interesting take on this, suggesting that these games resonate because they tap into our most basic instincts, or as he puts it, our “little monkey brains.”
Gallegos told Edge magazine that everyone craves shelter and food on a primal level. That simple need might be why survival games like Subnautica 2 hold such appeal. The game will launch in Early Access in 2026, and promises to offer plenty of both, though some fans have already called for a boycott after recent changes in the development team.
He shared a story from his time working at a Marvel studio where coworkers brought their kids to work. Watching a young child play Astroneer, a game known for having little onboarding, Gallegos was surprised. The kid built a base far beyond what he expected in just a couple of hours. It made him realize that survival game mechanics are simple enough that almost anyone can grasp them quickly. Maybe that’s why these games feel so natural and accessible.
Does it mean we’re all just little monkeys at heart? Maybe. It’s a funny thought, but it makes sense when you think about how survival games strip things down to basics and invite players to satisfy those basic needs. Yikes, it’s a bit humbling!
For those curious about Subnautica 2, the game’s journey hasn’t been without drama. Its creators were replaced recently by the studio’s new CEO, sparking some fan backlash. Despite that, the survival genre’s core appeal stays strong and straightforward.
What do you think? Are survival games so popular because they connect to something primal inside us? Feel free to share your thoughts below.
