Early Access
Subnautica 2 Launch Hub
Live countdown to 2026-05-14 08:00 PDT. Everything you need to be ready.
Platform Availability
Where can you play on Day 1?
| Platform | Day 1? | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam (PC) | Yes | $29.99 | Pre-load 24h before launch |
| Epic Games Store (PC) | Yes | $29.99 | Same as Steam |
| Microsoft Store (PC) | Yes | $29.99 | Free with PC Game Pass |
| Xbox Series X|S | Yes | $29.99 | Free with Game Pass Ultimate |
| PlayStation 4 | No | — | TBA after 1.0 release |
| PlayStation 5 | No | — | TBA after 1.0 release |
| Nintendo Switch | No | — | Switch 2 more likely; UE5 may not run on Switch 1 |
Full reasoning + history in Will Subnautica 2 be on PS4 / Switch.
Time Zones
Launch in your timezone
| Region | Local Time |
|---|---|
| US Pacific (PDT) | May 14, 08:00 |
| US Eastern (EDT) | May 14, 11:00 |
| UK (BST) | May 14, 16:00 |
| Central Europe (CEST) | May 14, 17:00 |
| India (IST) | May 14, 20:30 |
| Japan (JST) | May 15, 00:00 |
| Australia East (AEST) | May 15, 01:00 |
Pre-Launch Checklist
Be ready before the window opens
- 1. Pre-load on Steam or Xbox — both platforms allow pre-loading 24-48 hours before launch. Check your store page on May 13.
- 2. Update your GPU driver — Subnautica 2's UE5 visuals reward a fresh Nvidia or AMD driver release.
- 3. Free up storage — install size at launch is approximately 70 GB.
- 4. Set up your co-op group — sort out who hosts and how you join in advance. See the multiplayer guide.
- 5. Read the first 24 hours guide — so you do not waste your peak-energy first session figuring out what to craft.
Quick FAQ
Most-asked questions
Is Subnautica 2 free with Game Pass?
Yes — included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on day one. No additional purchase required while your subscription is active.
How long will Early Access last?
Approximately 2-3 years per Unknown Worlds. The full 1.0 release is projected for 2028-2029. See the full breakdown.
Can I refund Early Access if I do not enjoy it?
Steam's standard 2-hour / 14-day refund policy applies. Epic and Microsoft have similar windows. Test the game right away if you are unsure.
Can I play with friends on PS5 or Switch?
Not at Early Access launch — only PC and Xbox Series X|S. See platform availability for the future PS / Switch roadmap.