Subnautica 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the popular survival game, is currently entangled in a legal battle following significant changes at its developer, Unknown Worlds. Krafton, the publisher of Subnautica 2, recently dismissed the studio’s founders and postponed the game’s release to 2026, prompting a lawsuit. Reports indicate that the founding team alleges Krafton intentionally delayed the game to avoid a substantial $250 million bonus that was tied to revenue targets. The situation can be traced back to Krafton’s acquisition of Unknown Worlds in 2021 for $500 million.
At that time, the studio leadership, including Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland, and Max McGuire, stayed on, with plans for a potential bonus payout if the game achieved its desired success. However, as the lawsuit suggests, Krafton began pressuring the studio to delay Subnautica 2 and withdrew marketing support, which the founders argue was a tactic to minimize the likelihood of the bonus being paid. Krafton claims that the leadership of Unknown Worlds had veered off from their responsibilities, focusing on personal projects rather than the game’s development. In contrast, sources suggest that the game was progressing well, particularly for an early access title.
Although Krafton expressed disappointment over the lawsuit, they emphasized their commitment to delivering a high-quality game rather than rushing an incomplete product. As the lawsuit continues, Krafton has also announced an extension for the bonus payout period for the remaining developers at Unknown Worlds. Subnautica 2 remains set for a 2026 early access launch on PC, as fans eagerly await further developments.
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