Wondering if you need to play Subnautica 1 before Subnautica 2? Read our guide to learn about story connections, returning lore, and the recommended play order for the series.
Table of Contents
Should You Play Subnautica 1 Before Subnautica 2?
The short answer is no. Subnautica 2 is set on a completely new planet with a standalone story, and Unknown Worlds has designed it to be accessible to players who have never touched the series before. You won’t miss anything important if you start here.
What Carries Over From Subnautica 1
Subnautica 2 is a continuation of the franchise timeline. Players familiar with the first game will recognize that while the story, biomes, and creatures are new, some elements are carried over from the first game.
Most notable among these is that the Alterra Corporation is still present, and the colonists on the new planet are described as refugees connected to the chaos of the Kharaa bacterium, which was the central threat of the first game.
Why You Should Play Subnautica 1 Anyway
Subnautica 1 is one of the best survival games ever made. The experience of descending into an alien ocean with nothing but a small air tank and no map is something that becomes very hard to replicate once you already know how this series works. The sense of discovery, the first Leviathan sighting, and the moment the seafloor drops away into an unseen abyss all hit differently when you are not prepared for them.
What About Subnautica Below Zero?
Below Zero is a standalone game set in a different biome but on the same planet as Subnautica 1. It adds lore that connects to the broader universe, but it is not considered essential before Subnautica 2. If you are only going to play one game in the series before the sequel, make it Subnautica 1.
Recommended Play Order
If you want to play the series in order, start with Subnautica 1. It’s the best entry point for the franchise and establishes everything the series builds on. Below Zero comes after, though it’s optional and not required before Subnautica 2.
About Subnautica 2 Early Access
Subnautica 2 launches with Chapter 1 of its story and roughly 15–20 hours of content, with more updates already planned. It’s designed to grow significantly over time. If you prefer to play games once they’re further along, starting with Subnautica 1 is also a great option.
Early Access Overview and Update RoadmapRelated Articles
Recommended Guides
| Progression & Priorities | ||
|---|---|---|
 Early Game | Mid Game | Late Game |
Lists
All Leviathans
All Items List
Biomes & PoI ListNotable Items
Salt
Silver
Copper
Lead
Lucifer RotsacGuides for Beginners
 Multiplayer Guide | Food Guide | Water Guide |
 How to Craft Air Tank? |  Scanner Station Guide |  How to Manage Your Oxygen? |
Specs Requirements
New Game Features
Is There Crossplay?
Supported Devices
Update & Roadmap
How Long to Beat?
