The controversy surrounding Subnautica 2's development delays and leadership turmoil persists, as Krafton releases a detailed public statement today. The company accuses Unknown Worlds' executives of neglecting their duties, prioritizing personal ventures over contractual obligations, and ultimately holding them responsible for the game's postponed release.
In the official statement shared with media outlets (reproduced in full below), Krafton alleges it repeatedly urged founders Charlie Cleveland and Max McGuire to return to their roles as game director and technical director, but both refused. "After Moonbreaker's underperformance, we specifically requested Charlie's full commitment to Subnautica 2's development. Instead, he opted to pursue an independent film project," the statement asserts. "This leadership vacuum has caused persistent directional ambiguity and substantial timeline disruptions."
The document also references a disputed $250 million performance bonus, scheduled for distribution months later upon meeting revenue goals. According to Krafton, 90% of this incentive was earmarked for Cleveland, McGuire, and ex-CEO Ted Gill before their removal from the project.
Concluding the statement, Krafton vows "fair compensation for all remaining Unknown Worlds staff...reaffirming our pledge to honor previously promised rewards."
The complete statement reads:
To Our 12 Million Fellow Subnauts,
— Inevitable Leadership Restructuring Following Project Desertion – Despite Retaining 90% of Earnout Benefits
First, we express heartfelt gratitude for your enduring enthusiasm and dedication to the Subnautica universe. We aim to clarify recent executive changes at Unknown Worlds, our creative subsidiary.
Causes Behind Leadership Transition
Krafton cherishes Subnautica's distinctive vision and immersive design. To elevate player experiences, we acquired Unknown Worlds, investing fully in the franchise's future. We worked alongside the original leadership team – pivotal to the first game's success – to establish ideal conditions for Subnautica 2.
Beyond the initial $500 million acquisition, approximately 90% of the potential $250 million performance bonus was designated for three former executives, contingent upon their active leadership in Subnautica 2's development.
Unfortunately, these leaders abdicated their responsibilities. Originally targeting early 2024 Early Access, the project now faces substantial delays. Despite multiple appeals for Charlie and Max to resume their directorial positions, both declined. Notably, after Moonbreaker's commercial shortcomings, we expected Charlie's complete focus on Subnautica 2, yet he diverted attention to independent filmmaking.
This leadership absence precipitated persistent directional instability and major scheduling setbacks.
The current Early Access build also lacks planned content density.
We're profoundly disappointed by these actions, especially their breach of trust with our community.
Unwavering Support for Our Development Team
To deliver the premium experience you deserve, we implemented necessary leadership changes. A passionate core team continues developing Subnautica 2 with accountability and creative dedication. We fully endorse their expertise and will empower them to craft the exceptional game fans anticipate.
Honoring Employee Compensation Commitments
Krafton guarantees fair remuneration for all remaining team members who've tirelessly contributed to Subnautica 2. Their commitment forms the foundation of this franchise's evolution, and we'll fulfill all promised rewards.
Community remains central to Krafton's decisions. We pledge transparent communication and sustainable expansion of the Subnautica universe.
Maintaining your trust is paramount. We'll reward your patience with a polished, unforgettable gaming experience.
Last week saw Subnautica 2's entire leadership replaced by Krafton with ex-Striking Distance CEO Steve Papoutsis, alongside a delay to 2026. Cleveland described his abrupt removal as "shocking," asserting via Reddit that the game was "early access ready" and the launch decision rested solely with Krafton, calling his dismissal "painful."
Bloomberg subsequently reported these changes occurred just before the $250 million bonus payout window, leaving staff anxious about losing anticipated six-to-seven-figure incentives. Krafton previously told IGN the delay addressed playtester feedback, unrelated to "contractual or financial factors." In reaction, fans are mobilizing social media boycotts over the executives' removal and potential bonus cancellations.
