Subnautica 2's Steam early access launch is confirmed for May 14, capping the latest phase of the Krafton-Unknown Worlds legal battle. Court filings revealed allegations against Krafton CEO Changham Kim, including consulting ChatGPT to block a $250 million staff bonus, while extending revenue targets for the payout.
In the ongoing Krafton-Unknown Worlds Subnautica 2 dispute—following rulings reinstating CEO Ted Gill, addressing firings, and mandating studio control restoration—Krafton has committed to the May 14 early access release on Steam.
Pre-trial briefs alleged Krafton CEO Changham Kim blocked a $250 million staff bonus tied to 2025 revenue targets, which the delays threatened, even seeking ChatGPT advice to evade it. The dispute extended into March 2026, with the court ordering Gill's reinstatement and now extending the bonus revenue window to September 17, 2026 (potentially March 15, 2027).
The third Subnautica entry introduces four-player co-op on a new planet with enhanced visuals, building on the series' underwater survival. Krafton's 2021 acquisition of Unknown Worlds preceded rising tensions, including executive dismissals and launch delays from late 2025.
