Subnautica 2 Early Access Originally Planned for 2024, Krafton Blames “Absence of Core Leadership”

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The debate surrounding Subnautica 2 persists, intensifying after Bloomberg’s report claimed that Krafton pushed back early access to secure a $250 million payout, which was due under their agreement once the studio had released it. This came shortly after Steve Papoutsis, CEO of Striking Distance, took over leadership and announced a delay in early access until next year.

Krafton has explained the shift in management and the anticipated compensation on their official website (through Reddit). The firm appreciates the unique creativity and immersive world-building of Subnautica. To enhance fans’ gaming experiences, they acquired Unknown Worlds, pledging to uphold the success of Subnautica. They worked closely with the studio’s leaders, who played a significant role in creating the original Subnautica, to create an ideal setting for a successful Subnautica 2.

It was disclosed that out of the $500 million spent on purchasing the studio, around 90% or approximately $225 million would be allocated towards earning bonuses for the trio – Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland, and Max McGuire. This bonus came with the condition that they would exhibit leadership and actively contribute to the creation of Subnautica 2.

Unfortunately, the previous team failed to fulfill their duties as assigned to them. Initially, it was planned that Subnautica 2 would be launched on Early Access in early 2024, but due to these delays, the release date has been pushed back considerably.

As a gamer, I’ve heard the news that the company has reached out to Charlie and Max, asking them to return as Game Director and Technical Director respectively. But unfortunately, they’ve both turned down the offer. After the setback with Moonbreaker, Krafton asked Charlie to pour his energy into Subnautica 2, but instead, he decided to dive headfirst into a personal film project.

The lack of clear guidance from the leadership team has resulted in multiple instances of uncertainty about the project’s path and prolonged delays in its timeline. Despite Cleveland claiming that the project is prepared for early release, Krafton feels that it still lacks sufficient content quantity at the moment.

We’re truly disheartened by the past management’s actions and feel deeply let down because they didn’t live up to the faith our supporters had in them. Consequently, we took the tough but essential step to replace our top management.” Notably, Ted Gill, who was previously CEO, is not directly addressed in this statement.

Absolutely, let me rephrase that for you: “Indeed, this is the third time I’m saying it – ‘Subnautica 2’ is being developed by a dedicated core team who genuinely care about the project. We appreciate their skills and imagination and will always stand behind them, allowing them to concentrate solely on creating the amazing game that you expect.

It’s worth noting that it has pledged to offer “fair and balanced pay” for all the Unknown Worlds employees who have been working diligently on Subnautica 2. We strongly believe that their hard work and dedication are crucial to the growth of Subnautica, and we remain committed to delivering them the rewards they were promised.

Wrapping up, Krafton assured fans that they will continue to be the focus in all our decisions. From hereon, we pledge open communication and unwavering dedication to preserving and expanding the cherished Subnautica universe in a sustainable manner.

The early access version of Subnautica 2 is set to debut on PC and Xbox Series X/S in the year 2026. This delay, as announced by Unknown Worlds, will give them extra time to incorporate feedback from playtests, enhance the game with additional content such as new biomes, creatures, tools, and more. Keep an eye out for future updates until then.

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2025-07-11 17:41