Subnautica 2 Early Access and Everything We Know So Far

Subnautica 2 is the next installment in the underwater survival adventure series following Subnautica and Subnautica Below Zero, developed by Unknown Worlds. Players will encounter the beauty and danger of the ocean while exploring, navigating, crafting tools, and building custom bases. There’s a wealth of new information surrounding the game, so without further ado, let’s dive in to learn more about Subnautica 2 early access and beyond.

Subnautica 2 Early Access

Subnautica 2’s early access was first teased in late 2024, with a one-minute teaser trailer barely providing a glimpse of the gameplay. Since then, we’ve received a two-minute developer blog featuring Anthony Gallegos, the design lead for Subnautica 2.

The good news is that Subnautica 2 is in active development. And will be available for early access by the end of this year, according to the developers. They have also invited players to share their suggestions for what they want to see in Subnautica 2, as they aim to develop the game alongside the community. For more information about the platforms, read on below.

Subnautica 2 Features

Multiplayer: Subnautica 2 will feature multiplayer/co-op gameplay, allowing up to four players. You will also have the option to play the game solo.
New Adventure: The game introduces a brand new world, storyline, missions, and challenges, making survival increasingly difficult for humans.
Tools: In addition to basic tools like a scanner and flashlight, the game will feature new advanced tools, equipment, and submersibles.
Bases: To enhance adaptability, players can completely customize the layout and design of their bases.
Lifeforms: The mysterious aquatic world features the smallest fish to the largest Leviathans. Each creature is essential; use the scanner to study and learn more about them.
New Biomes: The underwater world is filled with vibrant biomes, each with its unique ecosystem and creatures. Discover and learn more about the world, and evolve your genes for better adaptation and survival.
Buildings: The game will also introduce new buildings, designs, half-round rooms, interior pieces, and improved foundations.
Regions: The game features regions such as observatory, graveyard, leadzone, plateaus, and shallows.

Release Date

First, let’s look at the past trends of the game’s developers, Unknown Worlds. The original game was available for early access in 2014 and fully released in early 2018. Similarly, Subnautica Below Zero, which, however, is not a direct sequel to Subnautica, was available for early access in 2019 and fully released in 2021.

With that in mind, Subnautica 2 is said to be available for early access by the end of this year, as confirmed by the developers. However, does this imply that the game will remain in early access for the next three years? That remains uncertain. The release date for both Subnautica 2’s early access and the full version is still unconfirmed, but we’ll keep you updated.

Subnautica 2 Platforms

Subnautica and Subnautica Below Zero are both available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. However, Subnautica 2 will be available for early access on Xbox Series X|S with Xbox Game Pass and PC. The developers have not yet confirmed its release for PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch.

Summary

Bringing new creatures, vehicles, craftables, regions, challenges, and much more, Subnautica 2 is officially in development. Early access to Subnautica 2 will be available by the end of this year. The game also promises new gameplay mechanics and enhanced visuals, as it is being developed on the Unreal Engine 5. This game is set to provide a whole new experience, as it is the largest and most ambitious Subnautica title to date.