The news that Subnautica 2 will not feature the iconic vehicles from its predecessor, including the beloved Cyclops submarine, has left many fans with mixed emotions. Design Lead Anthony Gallegos confirmed this decision, revealing that while the sequel is set to introduce a new story and environment, many of the vehicles players cherished in the original game will not return.
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The Impact of Iconic Vehicles in Subnautica
In the original Subnautica, the Cyclops submarine was more than just a mode of transportation. It served as a mobile base, a sanctuary for players to store materials and escape the dangers of the deep ocean. The Seamoth, a smaller and more nimble vehicle, provided players with a fast and efficient way to explore, while the Prawn Suit allowed for heavy-duty exploration and combat in hazardous environments. Together, these vehicles made Subnautica‘s open-world exploration experience truly unique.
The Future of Vehicles in Subnautica 2
Despite the removal of the Cyclops and other familiar vehicles, Gallegos hinted that Subnautica 2 would still feature a similarly large vehicle, though details remain scarce. It’s clear that the development team at Unknown Worlds Entertainment is focused on bringing fresh mechanics and features to the sequel, giving fans a new and exciting experience on an alien planet.
According to Gallegos, the decision to leave behind the original vehicles was driven by the desire to introduce new gameplay elements that would better suit the game’s new environment and narrative. Subnautica 2 is set to tell an entirely new story, with players navigating an unfamiliar world, facing new survival challenges, and encountering unique alien lifeforms.
What Does This Mean for Fans?
For fans who were hoping to see the return of the Cyclops and its companions, this news might be disappointing. However, the decision reflects the team’s commitment to evolving the Subnautica franchise. The removal of old vehicles will likely open the door for innovative, groundbreaking gameplay mechanics. While the vehicles may not be returning immediately, it’s likely that the developers will continue to refine and introduce new concepts as the game progresses through its development.
As it stands, we know little about the exact details of the new vehicles planned for Subnautica 2. Since the game is still in early development, fans should temper expectations and remain patient for more updates from the team. Early access may include only a portion of the final features, with additional content likely arriving later.
Looking Ahead
While it may take some time before we see these new vehicles in action, the shift away from familiar ones like the Cyclops suggests that Subnautica 2 aims to redefine what it means to explore an alien ocean. Fans will need to wait for future updates and deeper dives into the game’s development, but rest assured, the experience will be unlike anything we’ve seen before in the series.
Stay tuned for more updates as Subnautica 2 continues to take shape.