Subnautica director and Unknown Worlds co-founder Charlie Cleveland just lately introduced on Twitter that he’s taking authorized motion towards writer Krafton. This comes after the latest administration adjustments and delay announcement for Subnautica 2’s early entry launch. The announcement additionally comes after Krafton’s official response that claims that of the $500 million it had spent on the studio’s acquisition, $250 million was put aside as earn-out compensation, 90 p.c of which was meant to go to the three co-founders of the studio. Nevertheless, in his assertion, Cleveland claims that is “completely unfaithful”. In accordance with a latest report by Bloomberg, Krafton allegedly delayed the sport’s early entry earlier than the studio might obtain a $250 million payout as a part of its settlement.
Hiya everybody,
It continues to be an explosive and surreal time for the Subnautica staff and group. None of that is what we needed. However we actually respect the wonderful assist we’ve gotten from everybody. It means quite a bit to us, particularly now.
As I wrote final week, we all know in…
— Charlie Cleveland (@Flayra) July 11, 2025
The total message from Cleveland:
Hiya everybody,
It continues to be an explosive and surreal time for the Subnautica staff and group. None of that is what we needed. However we actually respect the wonderful assist we’ve gotten from everybody. It means quite a bit to us, particularly now.
As I wrote final week, we all know in our souls that the sport is prepared for Early Entry – that’s simply how we roll. And we’d like nothing greater than so that you can play it (sport devs stay for this). Nevertheless it’s not at present beneath our management.
We’ve now filed a lawsuit towards Krafton: the main points ought to finally turn out to be (not less than principally) public – you all deserve the total story. Suing a multi-billion greenback firm in a painful, public and probably protracted manner was definitely not on my bucket record. However this must be made proper. Subnautica has been my life’s work and I might by no means willingly abandon it or the wonderful staff that has poured their hearts into it.
As for the earnout, the concept Max, Ted and I needed to maintain all of it for ourselves is completely unfaithful. I’m on this trade as a result of I adore it, not for riches. Traditionally we’ve at all times shared our income with the staff and did the identical after we offered the studio. You may be damned certain we’ll proceed with the earnout/bonus as nicely. They deserve it for all their unimaginable work attempting to get this nice sport into your fingers.
Keep tuned.
-Charlie
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