Subnautica 2 Early Access: 9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Diving In
As Subnautica 2's Early Access release unfolds, it's clear that the game offers a robust survival experience, but it's also riddled with quirks and surprises. Here's a breakdown of some key insights that could have saved me a lot of frustration.
Base Building Blues:
- The game encourages base building, but it's a bit of a letdown initially. You can only craft a corridor and a hatch, which feels underwhelming. But remember, this is a deliberate design choice. Building these requires titanium, which you'll find in abundance near caves.
- My tip: Build your base close to a jetstream tube. Solar panels power your base during the day, but you'll need hydroelectric turbines for night, which is a pain if you don't plan ahead.
Exploration Boundaries:
- Don't venture beyond the Early Access area's red stripey walls. The game warns you about untested areas, and it's true - you'll die quickly. It's worth exploring, but be cautious and leave valuables behind.
Death and Disappointment:
- One of the game's most frustrating aspects is how your character respawns at base, while valuable items remain in the sea. It's a narrative choice, but it's annoying. I suspect this will be addressed in future updates.
Early Vehicle Access:
- You can build vehicles sooner than you think. The Tadpole, a one-man sub, is achievable early on. It's a multi-step process, but all the materials are readily available.
- Tip: Attach storage to the back of your Tadpole for a more functional experience.
Upgrading Your Tadpole:
- Your Tadpole can be upgraded, but this requires a Modification Station and celestine, a mineral found later in the game. Upgrades offer speed, armor, and scanning abilities, making them valuable.
Demolish and Rebuild:
- When moving items with your Fabricator gun, don't get discouraged if something won't budge. Demolish it and rebuild! You get your materials back, and it's a quick fix.
Quest Marker Control:
- Subnautica 2 is overly guiding, and quest markers can be annoying. You can disable them in the menu under Signals. This lets you explore freely and avoid marker clutter.
