Subnautica 2

Subnautica 2

Now with more water

A sequel used to mean that we were going to get a better experience and more content but with flop after flop, sequels have really become a bit of a joke. But something must be in the water because Subnautica 2 somehow delivers on the promise of leveling up the original, even in early access.

With the media circus surrounding this game, I almost thought it would never come out. But I'm so glad it did, because seeing it in all its alien virus infected beauty, just wow. For those who have never played a Subnautica game before, the core gameplay is simple, you're on an ocean planet and you need to survive. Figure out where to get food and water, then start leveling up your gear, finding new equipment and lore at scattered other survivors' bases. Subnautica's core survival gameplay is akin to Minecraft with how quick and easy it is to learn but it builds upon this by introducing upgrades and elements slowly, without overwhelming the player.

If you crave exploration and discovering the unknown, the Subnautica series is one of the best there is.

Gameplay

Very similar to Subnautica 1, same core loop but lots of new things to explore and find. Lots of cool new tools and mechanics to mess around with.
I like the addition of the perk system, too bad they haven't added multiple slots yet, can't wait to make some stupidly broken builds.
9 / 10
8 / 10

Graphics

This game's graphics are a step up over the original, which was already gorgeous. I love the lighting tech, the godrays and dynamic shadows are awesome!
The graphics are incredible, somehow in a package 10x smaller than ARK: Survival Evolved.
10 / 10
9 / 10

Performance

This game looks great no matter where you play it, PC, Steam Deck, Series S and X. The main differences are draw distance, global illumination and frame rate, but this game holds up well on most systems.
9 / 10

Story

The story feels a little unfocused at the start but as you continue exploring, things start to click. The story is mainly a vehicle for the gameplay, but there is a decent amount of lore, even in early access. This is not a story game, but it has one.
Wait, there's a story?
7 / 10
4 / 10

Multiplayer

Game is great in singleplayer but waaaay better in multiplayer. Watching your friends get munched by a leviathan is top tier.
Hell yeah, fih with friends
10 / 10
9 / 10

Music

Music is a slight departure from the original, leaning more ambient and almost liminial-esque at times. All around great score.
9 / 10

Food Ratings

Small Seafood Stir Fry

Subnautica 2 has lots of different ingredients that come together really well. Needs just a little bit more sauce, and I want a bigger bowl.

9.5 / 10

Shrimp Pizza

Subnautica 2 has a really good base, still waiting for a few more toppings.

9.1 / 10

TL;DR

Too Long; Didn't Read

Subnautica 2 is off to a great start, it's core gameplay loop is just as fun as the first game, the graphics are great, the story is still a work in progress but the multiplayer is perfect. We look forward to seeing this game get updated!

9.5 / 10
9.1 / 10