‘We are not a killing game,’ says Subnautica 2 dev: ‘Go play Sons of the Forest or something if you want to kill’
May 18, 2026
Creating content for public consumption, whether it be timeless art or contemporary video game news, often involves navigating the complexities of audience feedback. This challenge has recently come to the forefront for the developers of Subnautica 2, particularly in light of remarks made by one of its creators, O’Rielly, which have stirred a mix of reactions among fans.
Public Response to Developer Comments
In a candid exchange, O’Rielly suggested that players seeking a violent gaming experience might find more satisfaction elsewhere, specifically mentioning titles like Sons of the Forest. While his intention may not have been to dismiss players outright, the comment was interpreted by some as a blunt invitation to leave the Subnautica experience behind, leading to a flurry of discussions on platforms like Reddit.
One of the primary concerns raised by players was the lack of options to fend off aggressive marine life within the game. While Unknown Worlds has opted for a design philosophy that minimizes violence, players expressed frustration over being overwhelmed by hostile fish without any means of defense. In response to this feedback, O’Rielly reassured the community that this issue would be addressed in an upcoming update, alleviating some of the tension surrounding the game’s mechanics.
Despite the uproar, there is a certain charm in the notion of a game that encourages players to coexist with nature rather than dominate it. While it is true that nature itself can be quite brutal, the absence of human-like sapience in the animal kingdom adds a layer of complexity to this discussion. Such interactions between developers and their audience are a natural part of the gaming landscape, often leading to both misunderstandings and moments of connection.
In a more positive exchange, O’Rielly took the time to acknowledge a fan’s gratitude for the game, expressing his delight in the community’s enjoyment of the world they have crafted. He emphasized the team’s commitment to continuous updates and enhancements leading up to the game’s full release, showcasing a dedication to player experience amidst the occasional discord.
‘We are not a killing game,’ says Subnautica 2 dev: ‘Go play Sons of the Forest or something if you want to kill’
Creating content for public consumption, whether it be timeless art or contemporary video game news, often involves navigating the complexities of audience feedback. This challenge has recently come to the forefront for the developers of Subnautica 2, particularly in light of remarks made by one of its creators, O’Rielly, which have stirred a mix of reactions among fans.
Public Response to Developer Comments
In a candid exchange, O’Rielly suggested that players seeking a violent gaming experience might find more satisfaction elsewhere, specifically mentioning titles like Sons of the Forest. While his intention may not have been to dismiss players outright, the comment was interpreted by some as a blunt invitation to leave the Subnautica experience behind, leading to a flurry of discussions on platforms like Reddit.
One of the primary concerns raised by players was the lack of options to fend off aggressive marine life within the game. While Unknown Worlds has opted for a design philosophy that minimizes violence, players expressed frustration over being overwhelmed by hostile fish without any means of defense. In response to this feedback, O’Rielly reassured the community that this issue would be addressed in an upcoming update, alleviating some of the tension surrounding the game’s mechanics.
Despite the uproar, there is a certain charm in the notion of a game that encourages players to coexist with nature rather than dominate it. While it is true that nature itself can be quite brutal, the absence of human-like sapience in the animal kingdom adds a layer of complexity to this discussion. Such interactions between developers and their audience are a natural part of the gaming landscape, often leading to both misunderstandings and moments of connection.
In a more positive exchange, O’Rielly took the time to acknowledge a fan’s gratitude for the game, expressing his delight in the community’s enjoyment of the world they have crafted. He emphasized the team’s commitment to continuous updates and enhancements leading up to the game’s full release, showcasing a dedication to player experience amidst the occasional discord.