Subnautica developer Unknown Worlds has lost key members of its leadership team following a trifecta of sudden departures.
Parent company Krafton confirmed that Unknown Worlds CEO Ted Gill, Subnautica game director Charlie Cleveland, and technical director Max McGuire have all exited the studio “effective immediately.”
Striking Distance Studios CEO Steve Papoutsis has been ushered in as the new CEO of Unknown Worlds. Krafton said he will oversee the studio’s “overall management and creative direction.”
It’s unclear why Unknown Worlds’ original leadership team chose to depart, but the wording of Krafton’s statement suggests the Korean company was eager to retain their services in some capacity.
“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,” reads an announcement.
“Importantly, Krafton is confident that Papoutsis, with decades of experience behind the planning, development, and production of some of the highest-rated game franchises, will bring renewed energy and momentum to delivering the long-anticipated Subnautica 2 experience to fans.”
Subnautica 2 is currently slated for an early access launch in 2025. It’s unclear whether the upheaval at Unknown Worlds will impact those plans, but Krafton said it remains committed to “delivering the game players expect.”
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“There is nothing more important than the gamer experience. Given the anticipation around Subnautica 2, we owe our players nothing less than the best possible game, as soon as possible,” said Krafton CEO CH Kim. “We are thrilled Steve is joining us in our shared commitment at Krafton and Unknown Worlds to deliver Subnautica 2 as a more complete and satisfying entry in the series—one that truly lives up to player expectations.”
Newly-appointed Unknown Worlds boss Papoutsis echoed those sentiments and claimed player experience will be the studio’s “North Star.”
Game Developer has reached out to Krafton for more information about the departures of Gill, Cleveland, and McGuire.