Rumors suggesting a delay for Subnautica 2, linked to reported leadership changes at developer Unknown Worlds by parent company Krafton, have now been officially confirmed. Unknown Worlds has announced that the game`s early access release is postponed to 2026. Alongside this news, the studio unveiled a new trailer to keep fans engaged.
In a statement on their official website, Unknown Worlds explained that the delay is intended to allow for improvements in “a few areas” identified during a recent private beta test. The developers aim to make the game stronger and use the additional time to incorporate more biomes, vehicle upgrades, new tools and creatures, and expand the story further.
Contradicting the developer`s reasoning, the game`s former director and designer, Charlie Cleveland, recently expressed his belief that Subnautica 2 was already prepared for early access. Furthermore, a report earlier this week indicated that the delay might be connected to a substantial $250 million bonus Krafton was reportedly due to pay Unknown Worlds if the studio met specific financial milestones this year. Without the early access release in 2025, achieving that target becomes improbable.
This potential corporate motivation for the delay has resonated with the community. Comments on the new trailer`s YouTube page are reportedly filled with messages urging Krafton to pay the $250 million bonus, shifting focus from the game`s release timing to supporting the developers directly. Whether this public display of support will have any impact remains uncertain.
Subnautica 2 is currently scheduled for release on PC and Xbox Series X|S platforms in 2026.