The behind-the-scenes drama of Subnautica 2 is quickly becoming one of the most intriguing gaming stories of the month, but probably not in the way that Krafton intended. In the wake of scorched-earth remarks from Krafton about the former leaders of Subnautica 2 developer Unknown Worlds, studio co-founders Charlie Cleveland and Max McGuire, and former CEO Ted Gill are filling a lawsuit against the company.
Cleveland announced the lawsuit on Reddit just a few days after indicating that Subnautica 2 is ready for early-release. According to an earlier report, the decision to part ways with former team leaders and delay the game was potentially due to a $250 million bonus that Krafton was supposed to pay Unknown Worlds. That bonus is only slated to be paid if Unknown Worlds reaches certain financial numbers in 2025, which may be difficult or impossible without Subnautica 2 hitting early-access this year as originally scheduled.
Krafton announced the delay of the game alongside the new trailer for Subnautica 2, but it was bombarded by negative comments about the bonus amid calls for a boycott against the game. In turn, Krafton released a scathing statement accusing Cleveland, McGuire, and Gill of abandoning their responsibilities during the development of Subnautica 2. Cleveland also shared his response to the company’s comments.
“We’ve now filed a lawsuit against Krafton: the details should eventually become (at least mostly) public,” wrote Cleveland. “You all deserve the full story. Suing a multi-billion dollar company in a painful, public, and possibly protracted way was certainly not on my bucket list. But this needs to be made right. Subnautica has been my life’s work and I would never willingly abandon it or the amazing team that has poured their hearts into it.”
Cleveland thanked Subnautica fans for their support and addressed accusations that he and his partners intended to keep the bonus for themselves.
“As for the earnout, the idea that Max, Ted, and I wanted to keep it all for ourselves is totally untrue,” said Cleveland. “I’m in this industry because I love it, not for riches. Historically we’ve always shared our profits with the team and did the same when we sold the studio. You can be damned sure we’ll continue with the earnout/bonus as well. They deserve it for all their incredible work trying to get this great game into your hands.”
Subnautica 2 will be released on Xbox Series X|S and PC in 2026.
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