Subnautica 2: early access on the way and coordination issues with Krafton

Subnautica 2, the long-awaited sequel to the popular underwater survival game Subnautica, has finally received an official early access release date. The game will be available on May 14, 2026 for PC and Xbox Series X|S, with an accessible price tag of $29.99. The announcement also comes amid a legal dispute between developer Unknown Worlds and publisher Krafton, adding some uncertainty around the launch. Below, we break down the key details and developments surrounding Subnautica 2.

Key facts about Subnautica 2

• Published by: Unknown Worlds in collaboration with Krafton.
• Early access release date: May 14, 2026.
• Platforms: PC and Xbox Series X|S.
• Early access price: $29.99.
• Most wishlisted game on Steam: Subnautica 2 currently tops Steam’s wishlist charts, pointing to huge anticipation from the gaming community.

Development and legal challenges

Subnautica 2 has been in development since 2022 and was originally expected to launch in the second half of 2025. However, Krafton, the owner of Unknown Worlds, pushed back the release date to avoid a $250 million bonus payment to former executive staff. That led to legal action from the former executives, who claimed they had been unfairly removed from their roles. Krafton was forced in March 2026 to reinstate Unknown Worlds CEO Ted Gill. The legal battle has had a significant impact on the game’s development and the communication around it.

No generative AI in Subnautica 2

Despite Krafton’s ambitions to become an “AI-first” company, the developers say no generative AI was used in the development of Subnautica 2. Scott MacDonald, the game’s creative media maker, confirmed that all AI-related components were built manually by the team. “We do not plan to use generative AI in Subnautica 2,” MacDonald said. “It’s all traditional work.” This decision not to use generative AI raises questions about the impact of Krafton’s shifting strategy on the Unknown Worlds team.

Anticipation around the release

The launch of Subnautica 2 looks set to be a major event, especially given that the game is already the most wishlisted title on Steam. Unknown Worlds developers have said player feedback will be crucial, and they plan to keep updating the game throughout early access with additional content and improvements. Ted Gill, CEO of Unknown Worlds, says: “Our team can’t wait to hear your feedback as the game evolves during early access.” The game promises another rich underwater experience, with players able to team up in co-op multiplayer to explore different biomes, craft vehicles, and build bases throughout their adventure on this unknown ocean world.

With these challenges and hopes for a successful launch, both gamers and developers continue to wait in anticipation for Subnautica 2.