Subnautica: Below Zero - Buyer's Guide

Explore the frozen tundra of Planet 4546B in Subnautica: Below Zero, a visually stunning survival adventure with a new story and characters. Discover the secrets of the past, build habitats, and research alien lifeforms.
Fan-art of Subnautica: Below Zero

“The icy grip of Planet 4546B has tightened its hold on a new chapter in the Subnautica saga, as Below Zero plunges players into an arctic odyssey of survival and discovery. Daring to delve into the unknown, players return to the mysterious ocean world, armed with wit and scant resources, to unravel the truth behind a sister’s disappearance and the eerie events that have driven the remaining scientists to flee. As the frozen landscape unfolds, players must improvise to thrive in a harsh environment, construct habitats and vehicles, and research the enigmatic alien lifeforms that lurk beneath the waves. Can the secrets of the past be unlocked, or will the biting cold of the tundra consume all in its path?”

Should I play Subnautica: Below Zero in 2024?

The good

  • Stunning Graphics: Most players agree that the game is visually beautiful, effectively rendering the chilly, underwater world with great detail.
  • Immersive Audio: The soundtrack and sound design receive high praise, considered an “eargasm” for many.
  • Accessible Gameplay: This game appeals to a broad audience, including kids, teens, and adults, and is easy to get into.
  • Reasonable PC Requirements: You don’t need a supercomputer to run it; a decent setup will do.
  • Bug-Free Experience: Mostly free of bugs, which is always a plus.
  • Variety in Environment and Fauna: The new biodiversity adds a fresh layer of exploration and intrigue.
  • Seatruck Addition: Many found the new Seatruck a fun element, adding new dynamics to the gameplay.
  • Engaging for Fans: Fans of the original Subnautica still found Below Zero enjoyable.

The bad

  • Simpler and Safer Gameplay: Compared to the first game, the gameplay feels more streamlined and less threatening.
  • Hand-Holding: The game guides players a lot, which reduces the sense of exploration and discovery.
  • Smaller Map: The world is smaller and less expansive than the original.
  • Storyline Woes: The story doesn’t live up to the original’s enigmatic allure; it feels more like a side quest.
  • Voice Acting: Some players found the voice acting and AI companion annoying.
  • Movement Issues: Sluggish movement and some minor gameplay bugs like vehicles getting stuck were reported.

Verdict

Should you still buy or play this game in 2024? Absolutely! 🌊

Subnautica: Below Zero shines in its own right with breathtaking graphics and immersive audio that will pull you into its icy underwater world. While it may not reach the atmospheric and exploratory heights of its predecessor, it’s still a solid experience that offers new adventures and challenges. If you loved the original Subnautica, this spin-off will still bring joy, albeit in a slightly different flavor. Dive in and explore—just don’t expect it to be a carbon copy of the first game! 🌌🚀



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In-game Screenshot

Screenshot of Subnautica: Below Zero

Top image is not real in-game screenshots. Fan-art made by Gamer.se. Some game metadata is coming from RAWG