Subnautica 2 release date and launch times
Subnautica 2, the long-awaited sequel to the popular underwater survival game, officially launches this week. The game becomes available on Thursday, May 14th, with release times set for 8am PT / 11am ET / 4pm BST / 5pm CEST across platforms including Steam and Xbox Series X|S.
The sequel will be included with Xbox Game Pass on day one, providing immediate access to subscription service members. This distribution strategy capitalizes on substantial pre-launch demand—Subnautica 2 ranks among Steam’s most-wishlisted titles, indicating considerable consumer anticipation.
The path to launch involved organizational challenges. Publisher Krafton previously restructured developer Unknown Worlds Entertainment, stating the game needed “renewed energy and momentum.” However, the studio’s leadership was reinstated within a year, allowing development to progress toward this early access release.
The game launches in early access rather than as a finished product, enabling players to experience the title and provide feedback during active development. Given the strong sales performance and interest already demonstrated, particularly on Steam, the early access launch is expected to attract substantial player numbers eager to explore the underwater survival adventure.