The developers behind Subnautica 2 are setting the record straight after growing fan concerns over the use of generative AI in the upcoming underwater survival sequel. Following publisher KRAFTON’s announcement of an “AI-first” company strategy, fans began to question whether the beloved indie series would rely on artificial intelligence for its characters, environments, or dialogue.
However, the team at Unknown Worlds Entertainment has confirmed that Subnautica 2 will not use generative AI in its development or gameplay systems.
💬 “No GenAI in Subnautica 2,” Says Unknown Worlds
In a statement shared via the official Subnautica Discord server and social media platforms, the developers reassured fans that the creative work behind the game remains entirely human-driven.
“There is no generative AI in Subnautica 2,” the developers stated. “Our team is creating all art, writing, and design by hand, the same way we’ve always done it.”
This announcement came after KRAFTON, the publisher of Subnautica and PUBG, publicly declared its “AI-first vision” earlier this year. The strategy includes integrating AI tools into internal workflows, such as animation assistance, procedural generation, and voice tools, but Unknown Worlds insists that those initiatives do not apply to Subnautica 2.
⚙️ Background: KRAFTON’s “AI-First” Approach
In early 2025, KRAFTON unveiled its goal to become an “AI-driven publisher,” emphasizing research in generative AI and machine learning. The company described plans to develop AI-powered characters, game narration tools, and in-game voice systems.
That announcement sparked concern among Subnautica fans. who feared the sequel’s writing and art direction might lose their human touch.
Unknown Worlds’ clarification now seems to put those fears to rest at least for Subnautica 2.
🌍 What We Know About Subnautica 2 So Far
Subnautica 2 , often referred to internally as “Subnautica 3” by fans, is currently in active development for PC and next-gen consoles. Built in Unreal Engine 5, the game is expected to expand on the series signature open-world survival game-play. while introducing optional multiplayer and new bio-mes.
Key confirmed features:
- Built in Unreal Engine 5
- Multiplayer support (co-op exploration)
- New alien planet setting
- Improved underwater physics and creature AI
- A continued focus on narrative-driven exploration
The developers have emphasise that environmental storytelling and emotional depth remain central to the experience. Both of which align with their “no AI-written content” policy.
🧠 Why Fans Care About AI in Game Development
The debate over AI tools in game design has intensified in 2025. While some studios use AI to streamline art creation or writing assistance. many players argue it risks replacing creative jobs and diluting the unique tone of story-driven games.
In Subnautica’s case, the tension was heightened because of KRAFTON’s corporate AI stance. The developer’s reassurance that Subnautica 2 remains fully human-made has been met with relief , and renewed excitement for the sequel.
Release Timeline
Subnautica 2 is currently in early development, with no official release date yet. Based on prior release cycles and early developer comments, fans speculate a 2026 launch window.
Unknown Worlds has promised to share more details later this year, including gameplay previews and development updates.
Stay tuned to dkolla.com/gaming-news for the latest Subnautica updates, trailers, and developer interviews.
