Unknown Worlds, the developer behind Subnautica 2, has responded to concerns from fans following the announcement by publisher Krafton regarding the game’s direction. Krafton revealed in its latest financial report that Subnautica 2 would adopt a multiplayer format and a “game-as-a-service” model.
While confirming the multiplayer aspect of Subnautica 2, Unknown Worlds clarified that the game is not solely focused on multiplayer. Players will have the option to play cooperatively with up to four players, but solo play remains entirely possible.
Addressing worries about the “games-as-a-service” model, Unknown Worlds assured fans that the intention is to continuously update the game over many years, akin to its Early Access update model but expanded. The studio emphasized that there won’t be season passes, battle passes, or subscriptions. However, it did not comment on the possibility of microtransactions.
Contrary to Krafton’s claim that Subnautica 2 would be released this year, Unknown Worlds stated that it is not intended for Early Access release in 2024. More information about the game’s development will be shared later in the year, and the studio expressed excitement about revealing their progress to fans.
Unknown Worlds, acquired by Krafton in 2021, is currently working on two confirmed projects: Subnautica 2 and the tabletop-inspired tactical game Moonbreaker. Moonbreaker recently received its 1.0 update in February after four months of Steam early access.
Originally, Moonbreaker was planned to include loot boxes, a battle pass, virtual currency, and a premium in-game shop. However, after evaluating player feedback, Unknown Worlds decided to remove these features in October 2023.
This decision was well-received, especially considering the positive impressions of Moonbreaker’s gameplay noted by Eurogamer’s Robert Purchese during his playthrough the previous year.
