Subnautica 2 Publisher Krafton Allegedly Pushes Back Release to 2026, Potentially Forfeiting $250 Million Incentive for Developers
### Subnautica 2 Delayed: What You Need to Know
In a surprise announcement, publisher Krafton has confirmed that the anticipated sequel to the popular underwater exploration game, Subnautica 2, will no longer be released in its planned Early Access form in 2025. Instead, the game is now expected to be released in 2026.
The decision to delay the game's release comes as a shock to many, particularly the game's founder, Charlie Cleveland of Unknown Worlds Entertainment. Cleveland expressed his disappointment at being unable to make the decision to release Subnautica 2, stating that while the game is generally well-received in playtests, there are areas that require improvement.
The delay coincides with significant leadership changes at Unknown Worlds. Steve Papoutsis, CEO of Striking Distance Studios (The Callisto Protocol), has been appointed as the new studio head, replacing the three co-founders of Unknown Worlds. This change has sparked concerns among fans about the game's future.
The delay also affects a potential $250 million bonus for Unknown Worlds developers. The bonus was set to be paid if Subnautica 2 hit certain revenue goals by the end of 2025 following its Early Access release. However, with the delay, it seems unlikely that the game will meet these criteria, effectively removing the possibility of receiving the bonus.
Despite these changes, Krafton has reassured fans that Subnautica 2 will remain free of microtransactions, battle passes, and loot boxes, and that the rest of the development team remains unchanged. In a town hall meeting, developers asked if the delay was to avoid paying the bonus, to which Steve Papoutsis responded with patience, stating that more details were beyond his current understanding.
Papoutsis also emphasized that Krafton's desire is to have the very best version of Subnautica 2 available for its Early Access. He believes that the game isn't ready for Early Access and needs more content. Changhan Kim, CEO of Krafton, echoed this sentiment, stating that the delay in the release of Subnautica 2 is to ensure the best possible game is delivered to players.
The community has reacted strongly to both the delay and the leadership changes. Some fans have expressed frustration on social media, with some demanding that Unknown Worlds receive the reported payout from Krafton. To alleviate some of this tension, Krafton released a 90-second gameplay teaser for Subnautica 2.
It's impossible to say for sure what Krafton's motivation was for the delay in the release of Subnautica 2. Some find the leadership change suspicious, while others believe that the delay is simply to ensure the best possible game is delivered to players. Regardless, fans will have to wait until 2026 to get their hands on Subnautica 2.
- Microsoft's game publishing division, Krafton, announced the delay of Subnautica 2, initially planned for Early Access in 2025, to 2026, with Microsoft's Edge browser serving as a platform to announce the new release date.
- Steve Papoutsis, the CEO of Striking Distance Studios, known for The Callisto Protocol, has been appointed as the new studio head at Subnautica's developer, Unknown Worlds Entertainment, causing speculation among fans about the game's future.
- The delay in Subnautica 2's release affects the potential $250 million bonus for the developers; since the game missing its goal set for the end of 2025, the team might not receive the financial incentive.
- In a town hall meeting, Krafton clarified that there will be no microtransactions, battle passes, or loot boxes in Subnautica 2, despite the delay in its release, and the rest of the development team remains unchanged.
- Subnautica gadget enthusiasts and Windows PC or Xbox gaming aficionados eagerly await upcoming teasers or information about the game, as the delay presents an opportunity for the developers to deliver the best possible gaming experience.
- With the rapid evolution of technology and the introduction of new business models like software-as-a-service (SaaS) in the gaming industry, the increased scrutiny on the relationship between publishers and developers raises questions about the future of gaming finance and the impact on gadget-focused businesses.
