Subnautica 2 release date and launch times

Diver looking at a fish — (Image credit: Unknown Worlds Entertainment)

Subnautica 2 is getting ready to launch into early access, which is music to the ears of anyone looking to get stuck into a new underwater adventure. It hasn't been particularly smooth sailing ahead of launch either, with Krafton gutting Unknown Worlds and stating that the game needs 'renewed energy and momentum' before reinstating the CEO within a year. So the fact it's nearly available certainly feels like a relief.

With the game being one of Steam's most-wishlisted, it's clear that a lot of people are eager to dive in when it finally rolls out in early access. So, here's everything you need to know about when you'll be able to play.

Subnautica 2 release times

Subnautica 2 launches into early access on May 14, at 8 am Pacific. It will unlock at the same time across the globe, so there's no waiting around while your friends delve into the deep blue without you. Here are the release times across the globe so you can see what that means for you:

Can you preload Subnautica 2?

Yes, you can preload Subnautica 2 if you've already purchased the game on Steam. So, you won't need to worry about any pesky slow download speeds when you're gearing up to dive right into the action. According to a post shared by Unknown Worlds, the same applies to anyone buying the game through Epic Games and Xbox.

Kara is an evergreen writer. Having spent five years as a games journalist guiding, reviewing, or generally waffling about the weird and wonderful, she’s more than happy to tell you all about which obscure indie games she’s managed to sink hours into this week. When she’s not raising a dodo army in Ark: Survival Evolved or taking huge losses in Tekken, you’ll find her helplessly trawling the internet for the next best birdwatching game because who wants to step outside and experience the real thing when you can so easily do it from the comfort of your living room. Right?