Subnautica 2 Delay Sparks $250M Lawsuit and Fan Backlash—What’s Really Going On?
The Subnautica 2 Delay Sparks Controversy and Legal Battles
Subnautica 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the underwater survival hit, has been delayed until 2026 by publisher Krafton. This delay, however, is stirring up more than just disappointment among fans. It’s tied to leadership shakeups, a looming $250 million bonus payout, and a brewing lawsuit, making the situation increasingly complicated and tense.
- Delay announced despite early access plans for 2025
- Key developers, including director Charlie Cleaveland, have left Unknown Worlds
- Conflicting stories between Krafton and former leadership about the game’s readiness
- Allegations of a $250M bonus tied to sales targets now at risk
- Community backlash with calls to boycott the game
- Legal action initiated by ex-director Charlie Cleaveland
From Excitement to Uncertainty
Fans have been eagerly waiting for Subnautica 2 to enter early access, originally expected by 2025. But Krafton surprised everyone by pushing the release to 2026, citing the need to improve the game’s biomes, mechanics, and story based on recent playtests. They emphasized the importance of community feedback in shaping the final product.
However, this explanation contrasts sharply with statements from former Unknown Worlds leadership. Charlie Cleaveland, the game’s director, expressed shock after being ousted, claiming the game was already ready for early access. He shared heartfelt reflections on his years building the company and the game’s universe, making the situation feel even more complex.
Leadership Shakeup and Fallout
In July, Krafton revealed that key figures including Cleaveland, co-founder Max McGuire, and CEO Ted Gill had left Unknown Worlds. A new CEO stepped in, with promises to push development forward. Yet, the community’s trust took a hit as fans questioned the motives and future direction of the project without its original leaders.
The $250 Million Bonus Controversy
A recent Bloomberg report claimed the delay is happening just before a $250 million bonus payout tied to sales targets — targets the team was expected to hit if the game launched in early access as planned. Now, with the delay, that payout is in jeopardy.
Krafton responded with a sharp statement, accusing the former leadership of betraying fan trust and denying that the bonus would benefit the entire team. Instead, they say, most of the money would have gone to the three departing leaders. Krafton also claims that those leaders abandoned the project to pursue other ventures.
Community Reaction: Boycotts and Piracy Threats
The Subnautica community has reacted strongly, with many urging others not to buy Subnautica 2 and to remove it from Steam wishlists. Some fans even mention considering piracy to avoid supporting Krafton financially.
Legal Battle Begins
Things escalated further when Cleaveland announced legal action against Krafton. In a Reddit post, he stated:
“Details should eventually become (at least mostly) public – you all deserve the full story. Suing a multi-billion dollar company in a painful, public and possibly protracted way was certainly not on my bucket list. But this needs to be made right. Subnautica has been my life’s work and I would never willingly abandon it or the amazing team that has poured their hearts into it.”
He also disputed Krafton’s claims about the bonus payout, insisting it was never limited to just the three former leaders and highlighting a history of profit-sharing with the team.
“I’m in this industry because I love it, not for riches,” Cleaveland wrote. “Historically we’ve always shared our profits with the team and did the same when we sold the studio. You can be damned sure we’ll continue with the earnout/bonus as well. They deserve it for all their incredible work trying to get this great game into your hands.”
What’s Next for Subnautica 2?
While Krafton insists the delay is to deliver a better game, the mixed messages and legal drama have left fans wary. Whether this will impact the game’s quality or its release remains to be seen, but the community’s passion for the series is undeniable.
For those interested in the latest gameplay reveal and updates from Krafton, check out the video below:
