For several days now, players can finally dive into Subnautica 2. But why is it successful when underwater levels are hated?
On May 14, 2026, after 12 years it finally happened: Subnautica 2 was released. For a long time, it was the most wanted game on Steam and it started with 450,000 players on its release. The predecessor was already a success with players, which is why the second part was highly anticipated.
But why is that? The entire game takes place below the sea level, famously a place that many players reject. Underwater levels are overwhelmingly unpopular in games.
This is partly due to the fact that the game’s controls are not designed for water, thus restricting players’ movements in a way. Factors such as limited air, lack of orientation, and opponents’ advantages come into play.
The Subnautica games are one big underwater level. So what makes it different to be so popular?
Water as the foundation of the game and not as an obstacle
The biggest plus in Subnautica is precisely what annoys in other games: water. Or rather: the handling of water in the game.
In most games, underwater levels are almost a punishment because the character moves slower or is restricted. In Subnautica, the opposite is true: movements underwater feel almost like flying, as the protagonist adapts perfectly to the water with their swimming movements and can spread in all directions.
Also other means of transportation in Subnautica are well adapted to the environment and allow players to quickly go from A to B. Especially the huge submarines ensure that one does not feel inferior as an individual diver in the water.
No air is not a (real) problem
Although, as in other games, in Subnautica the air is limited, it is not necessarily perceived as a disturbing element, but rather as a tension element.
If it still bothers you, it’s easy to solve the problem since there are plenty of upgrade options to get a larger oxygen tank. Moreover, oxygen can be replenished in the base or in the various vehicles. Players do not have to swim up to the surface but have other options to get air.
A full world to explore
The world of Subnautica is packed with things to discover compared to many underwater levels. Numerous materials, creatures, and structures can be explored, presented in a colorful and rich world.
While underwater levels in other games are meant to be traversed, Subnautica invites you to linger.
If you are currently diving into Subnautica 2, you can find all kinds of useful tips in our guides on MeinMMO:
In conclusion, it can be said that underwater levels usually take something away from players and restrict them through lack of movement options. The Subnautica games do the exact opposite by giving players the necessary means to move freely in the water.
Are you playing Subnautica 2? If so, how do you find it? Let us know in the comments!
The hype around Subnautica 2 was enormous even years before its release. But why were so many players looking forward to the game? We answer that question in this article: After 12 years, Subnautica 2 finally arrives – Why are so many excited about the game?
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