Launch baseline
Several biomes
Some narrative
A variety of creatures and craftables
Launch baseline
Subnautica 2 Early Access
Early Access means the May 14 build is playable but not finished. Here is what's actually in the box on day one, and what Unknown Worlds plans to layer on after.
Reality check. Unknown Worlds states on the Steam Early Access page that they expect Subnautica 2 to take about 2 to 3 years in Early Access, based on their previous titles. The original Subnautica spent four years in Early Access before its 1.0 release in 2018, so 2-3 years is the floor rather than the ceiling. Buy it now if you enjoy growing with a project, wait if you want a polished 1.0.
Expected expansion areas
More biomes
More creatures
More craftables
More tools, vehicles, and story content
Playable baseline
Treat the first build as the starting map, not the finished ocean.
Future systems
Vehicles, tools, craftables, and base modules can expand over time.
Related guides
Where to go once you've decided whether to jump in on day one.