Subnautica 2 drama gets even more confusing as Krafton confirms internal document leaks are real

Amid increasingly bitter bonuses, Krafton now chooses to confirm leaks Aquarius 2 In fact, the development papers that allegedly criticize the highly anticipated sequel are actually real.

But first, some context. Crafton got Unknown World in October 2021 then, explain Subnautica Studio will continue to operate as a standalone clothing. However, last week, former strike-distance CEO Steve Papoutsis joined Subnautica 2 developer Unknown Worlds as CEO. Shocking announcement confirmed former leadership teams – Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland and Max McGuire – Replaced with “Efficient now. “Over the years, I found out that I was no longer able to start working in the company,” he said. The statement also implies that although the former leadership team believes the game is ready for an early visit release, Crafton did not.

Then, last week, it was reported that Subnautica 2 had delayed it until 2026, only a few months before Krafton was about to pay Offer $250 million in bonus to the development team. Bloomberg It said that the delay was “violating the will of the former leader of the studio” and that if the prize money from the Unknown World reached a certain income target by the end of 2025.

Krafton insisted in a statement from IGN that the decision had nothing to do with “any contractual or financial considerations.” Instead, Coffton claimed that the delay was to respond to Playtests’ feedback and that delayed negotiations were already being discussed before Cleveland, McGuire and Jill were eliminated. Shortly after this statement, Former leadership team reveals they are filing lawsuits against Krafton.

Now the drama continues, with the leak Internal audit documents This has less of a much more important than the Stellar Mid-Cycle review. However, instead of denying the leak, Crafton certified it, he said: “In view of these circumstances, Crafton determined that transparent communication was necessary and chose to confirm the authenticity of the document.”

The leaked image itself displays Two pages of development commentsit seems to be a photo of the PC monitor. They show the disconnect between Krafton's expected development and AS position. While we don't know who or which company the report was written, it's obviously critical of the Unknown World, suggesting that Subnautica 2 should “start with an MVP-level build, which allows players to experience the core loop on high-quality quality”, but in the current stand-up situation, the game lacks the grease levels needed to drive IP growth and expansion. ”

“It is recommended to increase the amount of polished content and level before launching, in order to attract a wider market from the (early acquired) release phase,” the report said. “While the game contains a variety of content, the freshness and volume of the sequel are currently lacking.

“In addition, it is not enough to meet the high expectations of OWSC and Asian markets.”

It is not clear how leaked documents begin to be publicly circulated online.

Crafton is in a position EUROGAMER. “The statement is intended to provide clarity and context about the current situation.

“The documents circulating on social media and reported by various media are indeed part of the internal milestone review, an internal milestone review conducted as part of the Subnautica 2 project. Krafton has confirmed that some of it has been leaked and is now widely shared among online platforms and fan communities. Krafton recognizes that this has caused this confusion.

“In view of these circumstances, Coffton determined that transparent communication was necessary and chose to confirm the authenticity of the document,” the publisher added. “Coffton believes that minimizing speculativeness and ensuring accurate communication with players must be preferred.

“Milestone Reviews are regularly conducted in collaboration with Krafton’s creative studios across all projects. These reviews help assess progress in development, define clear goals, and ensure that each project is aligned with Krafton’s standards in creativity and quality. This process is Krafton’s commitment to deliver polished, high-quality gaming at the right time.

“Crafton will continue to work closely with the Unknown World to ensure Subnautica 2 meets the expectations of the players who have supported the series for years,” the statement concluded.

Vikki Blake is an IGN journalist, as well as a critic, columnist and consultant with over 15 years of experience working with some of the world's largest gaming websites and publications. She is also a guardian, a Spartan, a quiet Hilan, a legend and a permanent chaos. Find her Bruceky.