SUMMARY
- Subnautica was an instant hit, when in launched mid 2010.
- Subnautica 2 will have a live-service model. Newer maps, and content will be released over time.
Released in the mid-2010s, the under-sea survival game Subnautica became an instant hit on PlayStation and Xbox. It;’s expertly woven survival crafting mechanics with a touch of horror in a unique setting made it popular among players. The game is coming back with a second edition, and it is set to include features that were missing from the first game.
In its latest earnings report publisher Krafton shed more light on the upcoming installment. Subnautica 2 is being developed by Unknown Worlds. Earlier, the game had been given a release window of 2025, however, now Krafton has revealed a 2024 release.
Subnautica 2 to be live-service and multiplayer
Krafton’s latest earnings report describes Subnautica 2 as a “multiplayer sequel” to the hit survival game. It further mentions that the game uses Unreal Engine 5 to deliver a “stunningly realized” marine world. Additionally, it also mentions that the upcoming game is designed for “single or 1-4 player co-op”, and that it uses a “Game-as-a-Service model with enhanced replayability”.
Besides, Subnautica 2 will also look to change things up with the devs looking for a more long-term development plan. It is suggested that the game could have a live-service model offering new content, such as new locations, story beats, challenges, and more. These new elements are expected to be released regularly over time.
Notably, the two installments before this, the original Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero, were both single-player experiences. However, there were several mods available that allowed multiplayer in the two games. This makes Subnautica 2 the first game of the series to focus on the multiplayer campaign. Up to 4 players can play in the co-op mode supported by Unreal Engine 5.
It will also be the first Subnautica game to support live service. In recent years, live service has not been well-received by the community. Nonetheless, Krafton believes that Subnautica 2’s “stunning stylized graphics” and “enhanced replayability” will make sure the players engage.
After Krafton revealed these details, developers Unknown Worlds published a blog to clarify some of the descriptions. The blog read, “In reference to ‘Games-as-a-Service,’ we simply plan to continually update the game for many years to come, just like the previous two Subnautica games.”
The developer also explained that it is in fact “not multiplayer-focused. Co-op will be an entirely optional way to play the game. You’ll be able to enjoy the game as a single-player.” They further said players should take the game as an expanded version of the early access update model. There will be no season passes, battle passes, or subscriptions.
Fans react to Subnautica 2’s live-service and multiplayer
The news was met with a rather underwhelming response from fans of the series. Several fans voiced their concerns about the uncertainty of the longevity of live-service survival games. The recent record of live-service games has not been great.
A user named ‘Kemy’ says, “Another game poisoned by live service…What a waste of potential.” Another user ‘DarkLordWaffles’ writes, “Annnnnnd just like that, I’ve lost all interest, hype, and excitement for the new @Subnautica game.” (sic.)
It just feels like satire at this point….one company after the next decide to switch the focus of a beloved IP to something that nobody fucking wants.
Live service games are fine if they are build from the ground up, don’t force this onto games where it doesn’t belong.— Tobias Frank (@Toby_Frank) February 8, 2024
The indie horror survival title Dread Hunger had its servers shut down. Another example is The Day Before, which witnessed an unfortunate fate. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League also welcomed backlash when the developers announced its live-service model. All these instances have left fans in a negative state when it comes to live-service gaming.