Subnautica 2 Promises Non-Violent Defense Features After 467,582-Player Launch Sparks Backlash
Updated
Updated · VICE · May 16
Subnautica 2 Promises Non-Violent Defense Features After 467,582-Player Launch Sparks Backlash
2 articles · Updated · VICE · May 16
Unknown Worlds said Subnautica 2 will add ways to deter hostile creatures and adjust creature behavior after players complained the sequel removed the original game's self-defense killing option.
The update follows backlash over a developer's Discord reply telling critics to "go play Sons of the Forest" if they wanted to kill things, a comment that fueled memes and complaints.
The studio did not say it would restore killing, signaling the likely fix is a non-lethal defense tool or repellent rather than a return to lethal combat.
Steam data still points to strong momentum: Subnautica 2 holds a "Very Positive" rating and reached 467,582 peak concurrent players, suggesting the controversy has not derailed the launch.
Beyond player backlash, is Subnautica 2's developer fighting a bigger war for its survival against its owner?
Is Subnautica 2's controversial 'no-kill' rule a design choice or a symptom of the studio's chaotic legal war?
How did a CEO's private ChatGPT logs become the smoking gun in the corporate war over Subnautica 2?