Unknown Worlds delayed Subnautica 2 into Early Access until 2026 after closed playtests revealed issues and management changes. Public trailers confirm multiplayer and multiple biomes will arrive with the Early Access build. New leadership from Krafton replaced several co-founders, and former team leads have filed a legal claim over contract disputes.
A July 9, 2025 statement from Unknown Worlds said the team wanted extra time to address feedback uncovered during closed playtests. Closed feedback reportedly highlighted areas that needed improvement before the game was released in Early Access. Developers will use the extra months to refine core systems and balance before launch.
Krafton released a separate Krafton announcement on July 2, 2025, naming Steve Papoutsis as CEO of Unknown Worlds and confirming the replacement of co-founders Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland, and Max McGuire. Those moves have fueled speculation and public debate inside the community. Serious allegations from former leads have followed changes at the top.
Former leads allege that a $250 million bonus was promised for a successful year and claim delays may have been timed to avoid paying it; those claims form part of a lawsuit now underway. Public posts from former staff list timelines and contractual details that have drawn wide attention. Legal proceedings are ongoing and will likely inform further reporting.
Plans call for an Early Access launch in 2026 on PC via Steam, the Epic Games Store, and the Windows Store, plus Xbox Series X|S. Developers say Early Access will last about two to three years, which places a full release around 2027 to 2028. Pricing will increase after the Early Access window, making the initial purchase the cheapest option.
Reveal footage shows a diver prospecting vibrant reefs before encountering a giant crustacean and a Kraken-esque beast, while a second clip highlights co-op exploration in small submersibles. Multiplayer will support solo play or up to three friends online, with crossplay between Xbox and PC not yet confirmed. Gameplay notes mention crafting via scanner and Biosampler, an overhauled base-building system, and an initial selection of biomes, creatures, craftables, and narrative beats.
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