Subnautica 2 update adds exosuit built for climbing

Subnautica 2’s second Early Access update will add the Seafrog Chassis, an exosuit that gives the Tadpole vehicle arms and legs. Players will use it to jump, dash across open areas and climb walls and rock formations in Proteus.

The suit is similar to the Prawn Suit from the first Subnautica game. World Lead Sebastian Spatzek described the larger region in the update as a better setting for the Collector Leviathan and said it would give players more space to explore and new tools to use.

Spatzek called the Seafrog Chassis “a dream come true” for the level design team. The equipment will allow designers to create more complex areas and puzzles. Some caves may require players to climb walls to reach resource deposits, while other locations may support new ways to interact with the environment.

The update will add new resources, story details and locations. Art Director Michał Piatek explained that players will learn more about the Axum, a mysterious subject connected to Proteus, as they travel deeper into the underwater areas.

World Art Lead Ben Kelly described environments designed to communicate parts of the story through their structures and objects. Rock formations, caverns and man-made structures will contain resources and story clues. They will also provide places for players to avoid the Collector.

Unknown Worlds has designed the Collector as part of the environment rather than as a standard roaming enemy. Animation Programmer Sam Dark explained that the creature’s four tentacles use physical simulation based on water physics. Each tentacle can move independently, reach surfaces, grab them and pull the Collector forward. The creature can respond to and affect objects around it.

Lighting will provide clues about potential danger. Kelly explained that warmer colors may identify areas suitable for resting or building a base, while colder blue tones may indicate more dangerous locations.

Players will also encounter Descenders, small green creatures that gather near the warm glow of Ignis Coil plants. Animation Lead Daniel Lilleberg described them as friendly creatures intended to make nearby areas feel safer. Creature Designer Louis Karim noted that Descenders watch for the Collector. When it approaches, they look toward it and hide, giving players an early warning.

Unknown Worlds has not announced a release date for the second Early Access update.

Reviewed and fact-checked by Vlad Kipran on November 14.