Subnautica 2 early access starts in May, in the wake of its publisher and fired leads’ legal dispute

April 30, 2026 - 21:48

The underwater survival sequel Subnautica 2 is scheduled to enter Early Access in May, but the launch arrives under a cloud of corporate turmoil. Developer Unknown Worlds Entertainment, owned by South Korean publisher Krafton, is currently navigating a legal dispute involving the studio's recently fired leadership team.

According to court documents, Krafton was ordered to reinstate the game's fired leadership team after a legal challenge. The dispute centers on the termination of key executives who were reportedly removed without cause. The situation has drawn attention from industry observers, as it pits a major publisher against the creative leads of one of its most anticipated titles.

Despite the internal conflict, Unknown Worlds confirmed that development on Subnautica 2 continues as planned. The Early Access version will launch on Steam and the Epic Games Store, offering players a first look at the new underwater world. The game promises expanded biomes, new creatures, and improved base-building mechanics compared to its predecessor.

The legal battle adds an unusual layer of uncertainty to the release. While the reinstatement order suggests a temporary resolution, the long-term stability of the development team remains unclear. For now, fans of the series can expect to dive back into the deep in May, though the waters may be choppier behind the scenes than in the game itself.