Subnautica 2 is poised to launch soon after a lengthy legal dispute. Players are eagerly anticipating this title, currently the most-wishlisted game on Steam. The early access version will be available on PC and Xbox Series X|S starting May 14, 2024.
Background of the Legal Battle
The game’s development faced challenges due to managerial changes at Unknown Worlds, the studio behind Subnautica 2. After an internal shake-up, including the ousting of executives Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland, and Max McGuire, the game’s launch was pushed back. Originally slated for 2025, it was delayed to 2026 amid feedback from playtests.
This change occurred just days after the executives were let go, coinciding with a $250 million bonus target tied to performance metrics, as reported by Bloomberg. The departing executives launched a lawsuit, which led to a judge reinstating Gill as CEO and extending the bonus eligibility to September 15, 2024.
Development Insights
Despite the tumultuous environment, the Unknown Worlds team remained focused on development. Creative media producer Scott MacDonald emphasized the team’s dedication to creating the best game possible. Game design lead Anthony Gallegos shared that they continued to work on the game while navigating the legal challenges, feeling supported by their fanbase.
Krafton’s Role
While Krafton was initially listed as the game’s publisher, the March ruling shifted the publishing rights to Unknown Worlds. However, Krafton is still involved in a co-publishing capacity. According to Gallegos, Krafton is committed to supporting the early access launch and is focused on its success.
Expected Updates and Pricing
Subnautica 2 will be an early access title, meaning regular updates will be implemented following the launch. Gallegos anticipates minor updates roughly every four to six weeks, with larger updates introducing significant changes and story content occurring over several months. The game is expected to be in early access for approximately two to three years.
- Initial price: $29.99
- Possibility of price increases during early access
- Early access anticipated to last: 2-3 years
The recent delays and challenges have allowed the development team more time for polish. MacDonald noted that this has resulted in a more accessible and refined game, particularly for new players unfamiliar with the Subnautica series.
Conclusion
With the early access launch on the horizon, the anticipation for Subnautica 2 continues to grow. Fans can look forward to an exciting experience enriched by improvements made during its development.
