Subnautica 2 has reached another major milestone, with developer Unknown Worlds Entertainment announcing that the underwater survival game has surpassed 5 million copies sold during its Early Access period.
The achievement comes alongside the release of Update 1.1, the game’s first major Early Access patch, which introduces several community-requested improvements aimed at refining the overall experience.
The sequel has maintained strong momentum since launch, selling 2 million copies within its first 12 hours before later crossing the 4 million mark. Now, with more than 5 million copies sold, Unknown Worlds is continuing to expand and polish the game through player feedback.
Update 1.1 focuses on player-requested improvements
The biggest gameplay addition in Update 1.1 is the introduction of new defensive options for players. While the game still does not allow players to kill marine creatures, they can now temporarily fend off hostile wildlife by stunning or knocking them back.
The change follows widespread community feedback requesting more ways to defend against aggressive encounters without abandoning the series’ exploration-focused identity.
In a press release, Executive Producer Fernando Melo explained the team’s development approach:
“With this update, we focused on refining the early-game experience and core systems. We’ll continue shaping the world of Subnautica 2 together with our players throughout Early Access.”
Beyond gameplay adjustments, Update 1.1 delivers several improvements for builders. Unknown Worlds has refined Tadpole Dock placement, making it easier to fit into compact underwater bases. The update also improves Fabricator placement, introduces a dedicated storage structure, and includes enhancements to rendering, creature behavior, and the user interface.
These changes are designed to streamline one of the franchise’s most popular features while addressing issues frequently raised by Early Access players.
With millions of copies already sold and regular updates planned throughout development, Subnautica 2 continues to build momentum as Unknown Worlds shapes the survival adventure alongside its community before its full release.
