Subnautica 2, Steam’s Most-Wishlisted Game, Gets Release Date Amid Publisher Drama

After months of legal turmoil, developer Unknown Worlds has announced that Subnautica 2 will enter early access on May 14, 2026, launching at 8 AM PT (11 AM ET / 4 PM BST) on Windows PC and Xbox Series X|S. The game will be priced at $29.99 USD, with regional pricing variations available. Players who purchase during early access will retain access to all future updates and the final 1.0 release at no additional cost.

Currently Steam’s most-wishlisted game, Subnautica 2 will be available across multiple PC storefronts including Steam and the Epic Games Store, as well as Xbox Game Pass. The underwater survival game will feature both single-player and cooperative multiplayer for up to four players online, distinguishing it from its predecessor with its shared exploration capabilities.

The announcement comes roughly a month after a significant legal dispute between Unknown Worlds and publisher Krafton reached resolution. Krafton had removed the studio’s leadership team, including CEO Ted Gill, in July 2025 and subsequently delayed the game’s early access from late 2025 into 2026. Following legal action, a judge sided with Unknown Worlds and its ousted executives, with Gill’s reinstatement confirmed through his appearance in the official announcement materials.

Subnautica 2 launches ahead of other notable May 2026 releases, continuing the franchise’s focus on deep-sea exploration and survival mechanics established by the 2018 original and its 2021 prequel, Subnautica: Below Zero.

Subnautica 2, Steam’s Most-Wishlisted Game, Gets Release Date Amid Publisher Drama

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