Developer Unknown Worlds has reached out to the Subnautica community, urging fans to exercise patience following a significant leadership transition at the studio. The announcement from publisher Krafton revealed the departure of key figures, including co-founder Max McGuire, alongside the appointment of Steve Papoutsis, known for his work on Dead Space and as CEO of Striking Distance (The Callisto Protocol), as the new head of the studio.
Community Response
This news has stirred a wave of reactions among fans, with some expressing their discontent through social media platforms. A notable post on the PC gaming subreddit has called for a boycott of the anticipated Subnautica 2, reflecting the community’s unease. Discussions surrounding the game on Steam appear to favor the departed developers, casting doubt on the effectiveness of Unknown Worlds’ communication in mending relationships with its fanbase.
The letter from Unknown Worlds, while an attempt to reassure players, has been criticized for its lack of detailed information regarding the leadership changes. Notably, it does not mention the names of Cleveland, Gill, or McGuire, nor does it clarify the reasons behind their exit. As fans await further updates, skepticism remains about the timeline for Subnautica 2’s early access launch, originally slated for 2025.
Commitment to Fans
Despite the turmoil, the letter emphasizes that the game will not shift towards a live service model or undergo any monetization changes, addressing a common concern among gamers. While this reassurance may not directly address the specific worries related to Subnautica 2, it reflects an understanding of the broader apprehensions within the gaming community.
The most compelling aspect of the letter highlights the commitment of the remaining development team. Unknown Worlds acknowledges the hard work that has already gone into Subnautica 2 and asks for continued support as Papoutsis transitions into his new role. “We also understand that it means we’ll need to ask you to remain a little patient and support us as he comes on board,” the letter states, hinting at forthcoming updates regarding the project’s schedule and early access timeline.
As Unknown Worlds and Krafton navigate this challenging period, they face the task of rebuilding trust within their community. The circumstances surrounding the leadership shakeup may become clearer over time, but for now, the focus remains on the future of Subnautica 2 and the dedication of its development team.
