"Subnautica 2" is slated to be released in 2026, but with the surrounding issues around it, it might take some time before we see it on Steam and other gaming platforms.
Ted Gill, the recently reinstated CEO of Unknown Worlds, claims publisher Krafton prematurely leaked the game's early access release window for May, potentially violating a judge's order.
CEO Reinstatement and the Controversial Memo
On March 16, Judge Lori Will ordered Ted Gill reinstated as CEO of Unknown Worlds. Just days later, an internal memo from Steve Papoutsis, installed by Krafton after the 2025 firings, revealed the May launch window to the development team.
According to Game File, Krafton later confirmed the date publicly through multiple outlets. Gill and the co-founders' lawyers argue that Papoutsis no longer had authority to announce the release.
"Krafton self-servingly announced the launch without any regard to its impact on the game, the team, or the community—let alone this Court's Opinion," the legal letter stated, stressing that launch announcements should be carefully managed to maximize fan excitement.
Allegations of Intentional Leaks
Gill's legal team alleges that Krafton deliberately leaked the release date, disrupting the planned marketing strategy and confusing fans. They urged Judge Will to consider holding Krafton in contempt, warning that the premature announcement could harm both the game's launch and community engagement.
Krafton's Defense
According to Kotaku, Krafton responded, asserting that the memo merely celebrated a milestone achieved by the Unknown Worlds team. The company insists the message did not violate the judge's order and that Gill retains full authority over Subnautica 2's actual release.
Krafton's legal letter indicated that nothing in Papoutsis's message alters Gill's authority or discretion.
'Subnautica 2' Delay Could Happen
Judge Will has not yet issued a response. Both parties are scheduled to meet later this week to propose a judgment consistent with the prior ruling. The official launch timeline for "Subnautica 2" remains uncertain as the legal dispute continues.
Originally published on Player One
