Unknown Worlds announced today that its popular open-world survival and crafting games, Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero, will launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on February 17. The releases will include significant graphical and performance upgrades designed to fully leverage the capabilities of the new hardware.
Both titles will feature graphical enhancements on the Nintendo Switch 2. When connected to a television, players can explore the depths of planet 4546B at a resolution of 1440p, although handheld mode will run at 1080p. In both modes, the games will support a smooth 60 frames per second, providing more responsive controls, greater immersion and a more fluid underwater gaming experience. The Nintendo Switch 2 versions similarly boast improved controls for the Joy-Con 2 controller, enabling more precise movement, smoother exploration, and enhanced interaction with the vast oceanic environments of Subnautica.
Unknown Worlds also confirmed a free upgrade path for existing players. Owners of Subnautica or Subnautica: Below Zero on the original Nintendo Switch can download the Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade package for free via the Nintendo eShop.
“What has always set Subnautica apart is its community, from the stories players share to the discoveries they make and the sense of wonder that comes from exploring an unknown world together,” said Michael Verrette, Producer at Unknown Worlds. “Bringing Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero to the Nintendo Switch 2 is about welcoming new players to that community, while also giving long-time fans a chance to experience these worlds again in a new, seamless, and more immersive way.”
Meanwhile, Unknown Worlds has released the fifth video in its developer diary series for the upcoming Subnautica 2. The new video focuses on the game’s first-of-its-kind cooperative gameplay feature, which was added in response to player feedback. In Subnautica 2, up to four players can build bases together and explore the unknown ocean depths as a team, offering a new collaborative experience within the Subnautica universe. The video also includes enhanced footage of gameplay on portable devices, as well as development updates aimed at improving accessibility, including cross-platform PC and console multiplayer support. Subnautica 2 remains in development and is slated for release later this year, further expanding the world of Subnautica.
