One of the games on Steam that fans are most looking forward to is Subnautica 2. The Early Access release was supposed to take place this year, but unfortunately, it will not happen – which the developer is particularly struggling with.
What is the problem? As Bloomberg reports, there was a bonus from the publisher Krafton for the development team at Unknown Worlds Entertainment if Early Access for Subnautica 2 started in 2025. Currently, over 200,000 players are excited for the launch (see SteamDB).
The bonus payment would have amounted to 213 million euros, which would have been distributed among the development team. The executives of Unknown Worlds have already confirmed that they wanted to distribute the bonus payment among the approximately 100 employees. As some employees confirmed to Bloomberg, the bonuses would have ranged in the 5 or 6 figure range.
But because of the delay until 2026, that will not happen. Additionally, just recently, the leadership of the development studio was replaced by Krafton. This included the co-founder and Creative Director Charlie Cleveland, who caused discontent towards the publisher with his recent statements.
Publisher of Subnautica 2 defends against allegations
Why was the game delayed? As Unknown Worlds explains, there are still some areas that need a bit of fine-tuning. However, this statement contrasts with the dismissed executive Charlie Cleveland, who revealed on Reddit that Subnautica 2 is actually ready for Early Access.
This led the community on Reddit to think that Krafton intentionally delayed the game to avoid the bonus payment. However, Krafton has already responded to the allegations.
Was it intentional? In an interview with GamesRadar+, an employee of Krafton confirmed that the delay of Subnautica 2 had already been discussed before the executives of the developer were dismissed. The release in 2026 is not related to the bonus payment.
This decision was solely based on our commitment to quality and the best possible experience for players. It was not influenced by contractual or financial considerations. Furthermore, the decision had already been discussed before the recent management changes in the studio.
As if the recent developments weren’t enough, the authorities also released a new trailer for Subnautica 2. This shows longer gameplay of the survival game for the first time. MeinMMO has embedded it for you above.
Either way, it will still take a few more months before Subnautica 2 is released on Steam. A person known through Steam avoids the gap and plays Subnautica in real life: Gabe Newell plays Subnautica in real life, has his own research company, discovers new life forms in the sea
