Subnautica 2 — Everything We Know
Subnautica 2 (sometimes called "Subnautica 3" by fans) is the third entry in the franchise by Unknown Worlds Entertainment, launching Early Access in May 2026. It features a new ocean planet, cooperative multiplayer, DNA modification mechanics, and new creatures including the terrifying Collector Leviathan.
Developer
Unknown Worlds
Early Access
May 2026
Multiplayer
Yes — Co-op
Platform
PC (+ Console)
Confirmed Creatures
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Collector Leviathan
leviathanA massive cephalopod-like leviathan with four sprawling tentacles, drawing clear inspiration from Lovecraftian mythology. The Collector Leviathan inhabits the Sparse Plains biome approximately 20,000–25,000 units from the starting area.
Aggressive
Wakemaker
leviathanA large creature teased in early Subnautica 2 screenshots and developer vlogs. Full details have not yet been confirmed.
Aggressive
Hammerhead
predatorA creature teased in early Subnautica 2 developer content. Appears to feature a distinctive hammer-shaped head structure.
Aggressive
Waterslug
passiveA small passive creature discovered through hidden Time Capsules left by Unknown Worlds developers during Subnautica 2 development.
Confirmed Biomes
4 confirmed · 4 leaked / unconfirmed
Sparse Plains
extremeA vast, open ocean biome located approximately 20,000–25,000 units from the starting area. The Sparse Plains are the known territory of the Collector Leviathan, making long-range exploration extremely dangerous without preparation.
0m – 500m
Graveyard
highA haunting biome confirmed for Subnautica 2, characterized by the remains of ancient or destroyed structures. Details about resources and creatures are pending further developer reveals.
0m – 800m
Plateaus
mediumA confirmed biome in Subnautica 2 featuring elevated underwater plateau formations. Likely to contain unique resources and fauna suited to mid-depth exploration.
100m – 600m
Thermal Spires
extremeA deep biome dominated by towering hydrothermal spire formations. Confirmed for Subnautica 2, likely featuring extreme heat-related mechanics and unique heat-adapted lifeforms.
400m – 1200m
Confirmed Vehicles
Interactive Map
Subnautica 2 — Confirmed Biomes Map
Explore confirmed biomes and key locations. Positions are approximate based on developer reveals — updated as more is revealed.
Confirmed Mechanics
DNA Modification System
Players can collect DNA samples from creatures using a bio-sampler tool, then apply those genetic modifications to gain new abilities.
Bio-Sampler Tool
A new tool used to harvest DNA from living creatures. The primary interface for the DNA modification system.
Procedural Base Building
Subnautica 2 features a new procedural base building system, a significant evolution over the module-based system in S1 and Below Zero.
Multiplayer
Subnautica 2 supports cooperative multiplayer — a first for the franchise.
New Planet
The game is set on a new ocean planet, not 4546B.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Subnautica 2 actually Subnautica 3?
Technically, yes — Subnautica 2 is the third game in the franchise (after Subnautica and Below Zero). Unknown Worlds chose to call it "Subnautica 2" rather than "Subnautica 3" because it represents a more direct sequel in tone and vision to the original.
When does Subnautica 2 come out?
Subnautica 2 is scheduled to enter Early Access in May 2026 on PC. A full release date has not been announced.
Does Subnautica 2 have multiplayer?
Yes — Subnautica 2 includes cooperative multiplayer, which is new for the franchise. Subnautica 1 and Below Zero were single-player only.
Can you kill the Collector Leviathan?
No. The Collector Leviathan cannot be killed. It has a persistent pursuit AI but can be temporarily distracted with flares.
Is Subnautica 2 on the same planet as Subnautica 1?
No. Subnautica 2 takes place on a new ocean planet. It is not planet 4546B from the original game.