Unknown Worlds, the studio behind the hit underwater survival game Subnautica, is seeing major changes at the top. Krafton, the studio’s parent company, announced that Steve Papoutsis, formerly CEO of The Callisto Protocol developer Striking Distance, is now taking over as CEO of Unknown Worlds.
This leadership transition comes just months before Subnautica 2 is set to enter early access in 2025. Papoutsis is replacing Subnautica’s original creator and director Charlie Cleveland, as well as company CEO Ted Gill and co-founder Max McGuire. According to Krafton, the outgoing founders will no longer be involved in the Subnautica franchise.
Krafton released a statement saying, “While Krafton sought to keep the Unknown Worlds’ co-founders and original creators of the Subnautica series involved in the game’s development, the company wishes them well on their next endeavors.” The company expressed confidence that Papoutsis will “bring renewed energy and momentum” to Subnautica 2.
Papoutsis brings years of experience, having previously worked on the Dead Space series and then leading Striking Distance. He will guide the creative direction for both Unknown Worlds and his previous studio.
Krafton’s leadership emphasized their focus on quality and player experience, promising that Subnautica 2 will meet community expectations. There is no change to the planned early access launch later in 2025, but a final date has not been set.
Fans have reacted with concern to the sudden shift in leadership, with some worried about what the future holds for Subnautica 2. It is rare for original creators to depart so deep into a game’s development. Still, Krafton assures players that their priorities remain on delivering the best possible game.
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