Subnautica 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the acclaimed underwater exploration game, Subnautica, has finally been unveiled, revealing an exciting new feature: co-op multiplayer. The announcement, made during Thursday's Xbox Partner Preview, revealed that the game will be entering early access in 2025 via the Xbox Game Preview program, with the game available on Xbox Series X|S and PC. The game will also be available on Game Pass on day one.
The sequel will take players to a new, uncharted planet teeming with alien lifeforms, promising captivating experiences that will keep players on the edge of their seats. Unknown Worlds, the developers behind Subnautica, have assured fans that the single-player experience will retain its signature depth and challenges, offering a compelling journey even for those who prefer to explore the ocean's mysteries solo. The developers have also clarified that there will be no season passes, battle passes, or subscriptions, ensuring a clean and enjoyable experience for all players.
Subnautica 2 will be available on Windows PC and Xbox Series X, and will hit Game Pass on launch day, which will be in 2025. With the introduction of co-op multiplayer, Subnautica 2 will allow up to four players to join forces, diving into the unknown together, making the experience even more immersive and engaging. Whether diving solo or collaborating with friends, players can look forward to uncovering the secrets of a mysterious planet and encountering fascinating creatures around every corner.
While the game will enter early access in 2025, Unknown Worlds and Krafton have promised that it will be a fully-fledged experience, providing a deep and engaging gameplay experience. The developers have confirmed that the game will feature new tools, vehicles, and base-building mechanics, allowing players to craft and construct even more elaborate structures than before. Of course, no Subnautica game would be complete without its share of creatures, and Subnautica 2 will feature a whole host of new lifeforms, both large and small, adding a new layer of depth and excitement to the exploration process.
The developers have also shared that the game will be powered by Unreal Engine 5, which will allow for a much more detailed and immersive experience. The game's environments will be more visually stunning and realistic, creating a truly captivating underwater world. The game will also feature a new, improved crafting system, allowing players to create a wider variety of items and structures.
The development team has also confirmed that they will be adding additional biomes, creatures, craftables, and narrative elements throughout the early access period, making it a dynamic and evolving experience. Players will have the opportunity to influence the game's development through their feedback, shaping the future of Subnautica 2.
Subnautica 2 will be available on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Windows Store. Players can wishlist the game on each storefront to be notified when early access begins in 2025. While an exact release date has yet to be confirmed, the developers have reassured fans that Xbox Game Pass subscribers will be able to enjoy the game at no additional cost. While Subnautica 2 will be available on PC and Xbox, there has been no mention of a PlayStation 5 release, leaving fans wondering if the underwater adventure will be a console exclusive.
The introduction of co-op multiplayer is a welcome addition to the Subnautica series, offering a new dimension to the exploration experience. With its immersive world, captivating creatures, and engaging gameplay, Subnautica 2 promises to be a worthy successor to its predecessors, offering a thrilling experience for both veteran and newcomers alike. Players who are eager to explore the depths of this new ocean world can eagerly await the game's early access launch in 2025, where they can embark on an underwater adventure, solo or with friends, and shape the future of Subnautica 2.