Subnautica 2 Dev Issues Statement Following 'GaaS' Controversy

Update: Well, that didn't take long! Subnautica developer Unknown Worlds has posted a statement on its website, aiming to reassure fans who were concerned about the mention of "Game-as-a-Service" for Subnautica 2.

According to the studio, this reference only means that the team will "continually update the game for many years to come". Here are the key parts of the statement, as shared on Twitter a couple of hours ago:

3⃣ The game is not multiplayer-focused. Co-op will be an entirely optional way to play the game. You’ll be able to enjoy the game as a single-player.— Subnautica (@Subnautica) February 8, 2024

Original story: The folks over at Subnautica publisher Krafton have revealed some early details about Subnautica 2 in a new earnings report today, and controversially it sounds like it might incorporate the "Game-as-a-Service model".

We say "might", because there are two versions of this report on Krafton's website right now, and one of them doesn't mention anything about the GaaS elements. However, the version that does mention it is spreading on social media:

Subnautica 2 will be a "multiplayer sequel" according to publisher Krafton.

The game will adept the Game-as-a-Service (GaaS) model and will be playable with up to 4 player co-op, as well as singleplayer.

Subnautica 2 is built in UE5, as opposed to the original's Unity Engine. pic.twitter.com/29hLM3wGgy

— MauroNL (@MauroNL3) February 8, 2024

As you can see, it's also mentioned that Subnautica 2 will utilise Unreal Engine 5 to deliver "stunning stylised graphics", and interestingly it'll also feature up to four-player co-op support - which is the bit we're most excited about here!

Who knows whether the GaaS mention was a mistake, but we'll let you know if there's any follow-up statement from Krafton or Subnautica developer Unknown Worlds in the near future. You can view the differences for yourself below: