Unknown Worlds Explores 2-Year Xbox Test Branches for Subnautica 2 as PC Keeps Experimental Builds
Updated
Updated · Polygon · May 16
Unknown Worlds Explores 2-Year Xbox Test Branches for Subnautica 2 as PC Keeps Experimental Builds
9 articles · Updated · Polygon · May 16
Unknown Worlds is discussing ways to let Xbox players test Subnautica 2 features early, despite Xbox Game Preview typically allowing only one live version of a game.
Anthony Gallegos said all patches will still launch simultaneously on Xbox, Steam and the Epic Games Store because cross-play requires platform parity.
Steam players will continue to get experimental branches first, a long-used PC testing method that lets developers gather feedback before wider rollout.
Microsoft previously canceled Project Moorcroft, a Game Pass plan for experimental demos, leaving Unknown Worlds to find another route for Xbox testing.
Subnautica 2 is expected to stay in early access for at least 2 years, with its Steam page saying the process could last up to 3 years.
What workaround could let Subnautica 2 offer beta tests on Xbox's locked-down system?
Will Subnautica 2 force Microsoft to modernize its rigid early access rules?