Subnautica 2 will be a live-service game that builds on its predecessors

After the first Subnautica mostly focused on single-player content, fans were shocked to find out that Subnautica 2 is now a live-service game focused on replayability. While players can still explore the vast ocean by themselves, publisher Krafton wants people to play with their friends, though they won't have to pay extra for anything.

The game’s press release (via IGN) claims that there will be multiplayer with up to four players as they “uncover the mysteries on an entirely new alien planet.” Krafton also boasted about the game’s visuals, as this sequel is now being powered by Unreal Engine 5, which is a big deal.

Subnautica 2 will most focus on its live-service model, which will supposedly add a ton of replay value to the ocean explorer. Considering how most gamers are done with the live-service model, fans were rightfully worried.

However, Krafton reached out to us to confirm that the games-as-a-service model is just a means to keep the survival sim updated. Much like the previous two Subnautica games, gamers will be able to play by themselves, while also waiting for new content. Krafton was also able to confirm that there will be no season passes, battle passes, or subscriptions of any kind.

Indie fans will remember how successful the original Subnautica was, as the game surprised everyone with how it blended survival mechanics in the ocean. The claustrophobic environments and fierce sea monsters had fans talking, which is why this game garnered a huge fanbase.

Due to the first game’s popularity, an expansion called Subnautica: Below Zero was released and also received a positive reception. New areas that took place in cold land resulted in a new body heat mechanic that players had to look out for. It doubles the game’s survival mentality, especially since the oxygen mechanic from the first game is still here.

Considering how the first two games made a positive impact through single-player content, it will be interesting to see if Subnautica 2 can keep up. Focusing on live-service elements is a kiss of death these days, but it looks like Krafton is simply building on the foundation of previous games. As long as the single-player has a ton of content, fans should be pleased.

Read More: Does Subnautica Below Zero Have Multiplayer?

Subnautica 2 will be released sometime in 2024, though no official release date has been revealed.