12 Hours With Subnautica 2: Steam’s Most-Wishlisted Game Needs To Relax And Quiet Down

A hands-on preview says Subnautica 2 still delivers compelling alien-ocean exploration, survival, and base-building.

But the sequel is criticized for constant narration, quest markers, and progression gates that make it feel more directed than the original.

Reviewers say the quieter, more self-guided discovery of Subnautica has given way to a busier, more guided experience.

Because Subnautica 2 is one of Steam’s most wishlisted games, these early design choices could strongly shape launch expectations.