Subnautica

Subnautica

December 4, 2018
Unknown Worlds Entertainment, Inc.
4.6/5.0(87,840 reviews)

Genres

Adventure

Themes

oceansurvivalexplorationmysteriousdarkscientific

Mechanics

open-worldresource-managementcraftingexplorationpuzzle-solvinginventory-managementbase-buildingweather-systemhidden-secrets

About This Game

A first-person survival game that trades combat for oxygen, where progress means crafting better gear to dive past kelp forests into trenches, lava fields, and the silent reach of open water. There is no fighting the leviathans that patrol the deep, only managing breath, hull pressure, and the dwindling light as bases rise on the sea floor. Critics rated it among the genre's strongest, settling near a Mighty consensus that singled out its soundtrack, atmosphere, and a sense of discovery built on fear of the unknown rather than violence. Players echo that praise, though many report playing in short bursts because the open ocean triggers genuine dread, and the recurring grumble is that mid to late resource runs turn grindy. For anyone wanting tension without a trigger finger it is essential; for those expecting a combat survival loop, it deliberately withholds one.

Platforms

PS4
PS5

Multiplayer

Single Player Only

Game Information

ESRB Rating:ESRB Everyone 10+
Languages:
Chinese (Simplified)CzechEnglishFinnishFrench (France)GermanHungarianItalianJapaneseKoreanPolishPortuguese (Brazil)Portuguese (Portugal)RussianSlovakSpanishSpanish (Mexico)SwedishTurkishUkrainian

Gameplay

Modes
Single player
Perspective
First personVirtual Reality

Time to Beat

Rushed:26h
Main story:51h
Completionist:49h

Player Reviews

Great

Overall, players are overwhelmingly positive about Subnautica, praising its immersive world, engaging gameplay, and the blend of exploration and horror elements. However, some critiques point to challenges with resource management and pacing in the later stages of the game, particularly regarding grindiness. Despite these criticisms, the majority of feedback reflects a deep appreciation for the game's atmosphere, visuals, and storytelling.

Pros

  • Immersive world and atmosphere
  • Excellent sound design
  • Engaging gameplay and crafting system
  • Beautiful graphics and diverse biomes
  • Strong sense of exploration and discovery

Cons

  • Grindiness and pacing issues in mid to late game
  • Some bugs and glitches reported
  • Resource management can become tedious

Based on 139 reviews from playstation, steam

Screenshots

Gameplay Video

Subnautica Guide for Beginners - Getting Started

DLC & Editions

Subnautica + Subnautica Below Zero Double Pack
Subnautica + Subnautica Below Zero Double Packbundle
Subnautica Deep Ocean Bundle
Subnautica Deep Ocean Bundlebundle

Subnautica — Frequently Asked Questions

Is Subnautica worth playing?
Subnautica has a great reception from players, holding an average score of 4.6 out of 5 across 87,840 reviews.
How long does it take to beat Subnautica?
Subnautica takes around 51 hours for the main story and about 49 hours to fully complete.
Is Subnautica single-player or multiplayer?
Subnautica supports single player.
What platforms is Subnautica available on?
Subnautica is available on PS4 and PS5.
When did Subnautica release?
Subnautica released on December 4, 2018.
What is Subnautica's age rating?
Subnautica carries an ESRB rating of ESRB Everyone 10+.