Wondering whether to buy Subnautica 2 now in early access or wait for the full release? The developers, Unknown Worlds, plan to add co-op multiplayer, diverse environments, massive creatures, vehicles, and base building to the final version. However, Subnautica 2 will continue to be updated and improved for several years after its official launch.
Subnautica Early Access Summary
- May 14 launch
- $29.99 starting price
- Day one on Game Pass
- Four-player optional co-op
- Multiple biomes, creatures, leviathans, and vehicles
- Some story content
- Steam Deck Verified
- Expected two to three year early access period
- Reaper Leviathan Statue reward for buying during launch week
Subnautica 2 Release Date & Early Access Launch
Subnautica 2 releases in early access on May 14, 2026.
Platforms & Game Pass Availability
Confirmed Platforms
Subnautica 2 is confirmed for:
- Xbox Series X|S
- PC (Steam & Epic Games Store)
Although Subnautica 2 is planned for PlayStation release in the future, it won’t be available on that platform during the early access period. Similarly, Nintendo Switch players won’t be able to play the game when early access begins.
Is Subnautica 2 on Game Pass?
Yes, Subnautica 2 will be available to play immediately with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass subscription when it enters early access.
How Much Does Subnautica 2 Cost?
Subnautica 2 will cost $29.99 at the start of early access, though its price may increase over time.
Are There Preorder Bonuses or Special Editions?
The game doesn’t have any preorder bonuses or special editions, but if you buy it within the first week of its release (between May 14th at 8 AM PT and May 25th, 2026 at 10 AM PT), you’ll get a Reaper Leviathan Statue to use in the game. Just remember, you need to buy the game during that week to get the statue, not just start playing it.
Watch at least 20 minutes of the Subnautica 2 Pre-Launch Showcase on Twitch (May 9th at 8:00 AM PT) to unlock a special Seamoth Statue for your base in the game. Plus, if 100,000 players join the pre-launch event, everyone will receive a blueprint for a Lost River Poster.
What to Expect from Subnautica 2’s Early Access
The upcoming game, Subnautica 2, will be available in early access for between two and three years. When early access starts on May 14th, players will already be able to experience many of the game’s main features.
Multiplayer & Co-Op
Subnautica 2 is being designed specifically for multiplayer, and will support up to four players in co-op mode right when it launches. You can find more details in our co-op guide.
Biomes & Creatures
I’m so excited for the game to come out! From what I’ve heard, there will be tons of different areas to explore right away, each packed with all sorts of creatures and massive leviathans. And get this – PC Gamer just revealed that the first major update after launch will add a whole new region, and it’s where you’ll find The Collector, this gigantic squid monster! It sounds incredible.
Vehicles & Base Building
When early access begins, you can start exploring the ocean depths with your Tadpole submersible and build your own customized bases. Keep in mind that these features are still in development, and we’ll be adding more tools, equipment, and vehicles throughout the early access period.
Story Content
The complete story won’t be available when the game first releases, but players will still be able to experience parts of it.
Character Creation
At launch, players can select from a variety of character models, and we plan to add even more choices during early access.
How Long Will Subnautica 2 Early Access Last?
The game will be in early access for two to three years. Throughout this period, players can look forward to frequent small updates every month and a half to two months, and bigger updates with new content, locations, and features released every few months.
PC Specs, Steam Deck & Performance
Minimum & Recommended Specs
As per the game’s Steam page, the minimum and recommended PC specs are:
| Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|
|
|
Steam Deck & Handheld Support
Subnautica 2 is officially Steam Deck Verified and can also be played on ROG Xbox Ally handhelds.
DLSS / FSR Support
Both DLSS and TSR upscaling will be ready to use when the game’s early access period begins. While FSR won’t be available at launch, the developers plan to add it in a future update.
Buying Early Access vs Waiting for 1.0
Thinking about whether to play the game now in early access or wait for the full release? Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Buy early access if you want to see, and play a role in, how the game changes over time.
- Wait for 1.0 if you want access to the full story immediately, hate bugs and balance changes, or don’t like waiting for content updates.
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2026-05-07 21:40