Subnautica 2 Early Access: How to Get In
Subnautica 2 is out now in Early Access (it launched May 14, 2026) and is expected to stay in Early Access for around 2-3 years. Whether you want it on Steam, the Epic Games Store, the Windows Store, or through Game Pass, this guide covers how to start playing and how to opt into experimental builds.
๐ Where to Get It
- PC: Steam, Epic Games Store, or Windows Store.
- Xbox: Xbox Series X|S.
- Game Pass: available on PC and Xbox (including Xbox-on-PC / ROG Xbox Ally).
- Not available: there is no PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch version.
Buying Subnautica 2
Pick up Subnautica 2 on the store of your choice:
- On PC, search for Subnautica 2 on Steam, the Epic Games Store, or the Windows Store and purchase the Early Access build.
- On Xbox Series X|S, find it in the Microsoft Store.
- If you have Game Pass on PC or Xbox, install it directly from the Game Pass library at no extra cost.
Steam "Experimental" Branch
If you own the game on Steam, you can access new features ahead of the default branch:
- Right-click Subnautica 2 in your **Steam Library**.
- Select **Properties** > **Betas**.
- Select the experimental branch from the dropdown menu (the exact name may vary, check the listed options).
- The game will download the latest (but potentially unstable) developer build.
Game Pass on Xbox & PC
Subnautica 2 is available on Game Pass for both PC and Xbox, so subscribers can play the Early Access build without buying it separately. Crossplay between PC and Xbox is on by default, so Game Pass players can join the same world as players who bought the game elsewhere.
๐ป Hardware Checklist
Like the previous Subnautica games, you'll have a smoother time with **modern hardware** and a stable **SSD** for faster asset streaming as you explore deeper biomes.
๐ฌ Early Access Feedback
This is an Early Access release, so expect ongoing changes. Reporting bugs through the in-game feedback tools helps the developers polish the 4-player co-op experience.
What to Expect in Early Access
- Evolving content: biomes, creatures, and features are added and reworked over the multi-year Early Access window.
- Occasional rough edges: expect the usual Early Access bugs and balance changes.
- Save changes: as a precaution during Early Access, back up your world (Upload to Cloud) before major patches.
Is Subnautica 2 out yet?
Yes. Subnautica 2 launched in Early Access on May 14, 2026 and is expected to remain in Early Access for around 2-3 years.
What platforms is it on?
PC (Steam, Epic, Windows Store) and Xbox Series X|S, plus Game Pass on PC and Xbox. There is no PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch version.
Is there an official dedicated server?
No. Co-op is host-based and there is no official dedicated-server tool yet (it is a top community request). Managed hosts keep your world online as an always-online session as a workaround.
Next Steps
Be "Beta Ready": Don't let a slow server ruin your testing experience. Supercraft's development-tier servers are optimized for experimental builds, giving you the stability needed to properly stress-test Subnautica 2's new ocean depths.