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.
Underwater launch briefing with a submersible and illuminated base

Launch baseline

Several biomes
Some narrative
A variety of creatures and craftables

Expected expansion areas

More biomes
More creatures
More craftables
More tools, vehicles, and story content
Divers and a maintenance robot near an underwater habitat corridor
Playable baseline
Treat the first build as the starting map, not the finished ocean.
Underwater machine bay with robotic arms and a parked submersible
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.