Alleged Subnautica 2 playtest leak suggests terrifying Leviathan, gene modding, and VR compatibility
An anonymous Reddit user claiming to have access to a Subnautica 2 playtest build has revealed early gameplay impressions across several Subnautica subreddits. The now semi-shadowbanned user revealed interesting details about Unknown Worlds’ highly anticipated sequel. Some of the highlights include a new terrifying foe, gene modification mechanics, and VR compatibility.
Subnautica 2 may be VR compatible
According to the post, Subnautica 2 is built on Unreal Engine 5.5.4 and is currently compatible with UEVR, which is a tool used to adapt flat-screen games for virtual reality. The user claims they achieved 90 FPS on a Quest Pro headset via Virtual Desktop, using high in-game settings and unspecified high-end AMD hardware.
However, it should be noted that in a recent Q&A video, one of the developers mentioned that they were not currently working on VR support, but may consider it in the future.
Connections with Subnautica and Below Zero
Interestingly, the post claims that Subnautica 2 starts deep down in the ocean, unlike the first two games. “You start really deep rather than high, which is quite interesting and fear-inducing,” the user wrote. “This is short-lived, though, as you get propelled to the top,” the user added.
The game reportedly takes place on a new planet but contains numerous callbacks to Subnautica and Below Zero. According to the post, there are several references to characters Ryley and Marguerit, and lore entries scattered across the PDA and other interactive elements.
Gene modification mechanics
As mentioned, the user claims that Subnautica 2 features a new mechanic that lets players modify their genes to better adapt to extreme conditions. “There is a section in the PDA that shows your adaptations,” the user notes. “It’s part of how you’re able to start so deep and a major part of the story.”
This claim loosely aligns with what one of the developers said in the latest dev vlog. “This is a world where alien DNA seeps into your bones… where you might be the last human - or the first of something new,” the Senior Narrative Designer said at the start of the vlog.
However, please note that this is just a speculation, and the gene modification mechanic, as well as other gameplay elements, are unconfirmed.
Terrifying new “Leviathan”
The boldest claim in the post is a terrifying new Leviathan-class creature dubbed the “Collector.” The user allegedly managed to bypass the playtest barrier and scan the beast, revealing its name and chilling animation. “A playtest barrier is in place, stopping further exploration; however, I can say that the 'Collector' is quite scary in person,” the user described.
While the post has garnered attention for its detailed impressions, the user is currently shadowbanned from commenting, likely due to the newness of their Reddit account or concerns about NDA breaches. The user insists they are trying not to spoil major plot points and are willing to provide proof of access to moderators if needed.
In any case, we’d ask our readers to take this with a grain of salt as these claims are not yet officially confirmed.
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