The development process for Subnautica 2 is currently making headlines for reasons likely unintended by the publisher, Krafton. In the wake of strong public remarks from Krafton concerning the former leadership of Unknown Worlds, the studio behind Subnautica 2 – specifically co-founders Charlie Cleveland, Max McGuire, and former CEO Ted Gill – these individuals have initiated a lawsuit against the publisher.
Cleveland announced the lawsuit via Reddit, shortly after having suggested that Subnautica 2 was nearing readiness for early access. According to prior reports, the decision to part ways with key former team leaders and subsequently delay the game may be connected to a substantial $250 million bonus Krafton potentially owes to Unknown Worlds. This bonus payment is reportedly contingent upon Unknown Worlds achieving certain financial targets in 2025, which could become challenging or impossible if Subnautica 2 does not enter early access this year as originally planned.
Krafton confirmed the game`s delay concurrently with the release of a new Subnautica 2 trailer. However, this announcement was met with significant negative feedback from fans, sparking discussion about the bonus and calls for a boycott of the game. In response, Krafton released a pointed statement accusing Cleveland, McGuire, and Gill of failing to fulfill their obligations during the development of Subnautica 2. Cleveland has also shared his perspective in response to Krafton`s claims.
“We have now filed a lawsuit against Krafton; the details of this case should eventually become public,” Cleveland stated. “You all deserve to know the complete story. Pursuing legal action against a multi-billion dollar corporation through a difficult, public, and potentially drawn-out process was certainly not something I ever planned to do. However, this situation must be addressed and made right. Subnautica has been my life`s work, and I would never willingly abandon it or the incredibly talented team who have dedicated their efforts to it.”
Cleveland extended his gratitude to the Subnautica fan community for their support and addressed accusations suggesting he and his partners intended to retain the entire bonus payment for themselves.
Regarding the potential `earnout` bonus, Cleveland commented, “The notion that Max, Ted, and I sought to keep it all for ourselves is absolutely incorrect. My commitment to this industry stems from passion, not a desire for riches. Historically, we have consistently shared our profits with the team and followed the same principle when we sold the studio. You can be absolutely certain that we will continue this practice with the earnout/bonus as well. The team deserves it for all their remarkable work in striving to deliver this excellent game to you.”
Subnautica 2 is expected to launch on Xbox Series X|S and PC in 2026.