The controversy over Subnautica 2 continues, particularly within the wake of a report by Bloomberg, which alleged that Krafton delayed early entry earlier than the studio might obtain a $250 million payout as a part of its settlement. This adopted the substitute of the management with Putting Distance CEO Steve Papoutsis and an official delay of early entry to subsequent yr.
Nevertheless, Krafton has since supplied clarification on the sudden change of management and the supposed payout on its dwelling web page (by way of Reddit). The corporate “deeply values Subnautica’s distinctive creativity and immersive world-building. To supply followers with even higher gaming experiences, we acquired Unknown Worlds, totally dedicated to supporting Subnautica’s future success. We collaborated intently with the studio’s management, who had been central to the creation of the unique Subnautica, to foster the optimum surroundings for a profitable Subnautica 2.“
It revealed that of the $500 million spent on buying the studio, 90 % of its $250 million earn-out compensation would go to the three co-founders – Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland, and Max McGuire. This was “with the expectation that they’d display management and energetic involvement within the improvement of Subnautica 2.”
“Nevertheless, regrettably, the previous management deserted the duties entrusted to them. Subnautica 2 was initially deliberate for an Early Entry launch in early 2024, however the timeline has since been considerably delayed.”
The corporate claims to have “made a number of requests to Charlie and Max to renew their roles as Sport Director and Technical Director, respectively, however each declined to take action. Particularly, following the failure of Moonbreaker, Krafton requested Charlie to commit himself to the event of Subnautica 2. Nevertheless, as an alternative of taking part within the recreation improvement, he selected to concentrate on a private movie venture.”
This “absence of core management” has induced “repeated confusion in path and vital delays within the general venture schedule.” Although Cleveland mentioned the title was prepared for early entry, Krafton believes it at present falls “quick by way of content material quantity.”
“We’re deeply upset by the previous management’s conduct, and above all, we really feel a profound sense of betrayal by their failure to honor the belief positioned in them by our followers.” In consequence, it made the “troublesome but needed choice to vary the chief management.” Apparently, there’s no point out of Ted Gill, who served as CEO.
In fact, for the third time now, it assures that “Subnautica 2 has been and continues to be actively developed by a devoted core group who share real ardour, accountability, and dedication to the sport. We deeply respect their experience and creativity and can proceed to supply full and unwavering assist, enabling them to focus solely on delivering the distinctive recreation you deserve.”
Apparently, it additionally dedicated to “truthful and equitable compensation for all remaining Unknown Worlds workers who’ve constantly and tirelessly contributed to Subnautica 2’s improvement. We consider that the dedication and energy of this group are on the very coronary heart of Subnautica’s ongoing evolution, and we reaffirm our dedication to supply the rewards they had been promised.”
In closing, Krafton mentioned that followers will “all the time stay on the middle of each choice we make.” “Transferring ahead, we promise clear communication and continued efforts to sustainably develop and increase the beloved Subnautica universe.”
Subnautica 2’s early entry will launch for PC and Xbox Collection X/S in 2026. In keeping with Unknown Worlds’ delay announcement, the extra time will enable for implementing suggestions from playtests and including extra content material, together with new biomes, creatures, instruments, and extra. Keep tuned for additional updates within the meantime.
