Subnautica: Below Zero

What to Know

Critics Recommend

Average Score

Total Reviews: 46

Play It

While Subnautica: Below Zero doesn’t quite reach the same heights as the original, it is a brilliant sequel nonetheless – mellow paced, captivating, and masterfully horrific.

Play It

Critics Recommend

Critic Reviews: 46

Critics Consensus

# Reviews: 46

While Subnautica: Below Zero doesn't quite reach the same heights as the original, it is a brilliant sequel nonetheless - mellow paced, captivating, and masterfully horrific.

Where to Play

** VSG may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

Rate and Review

What did you think of Subnautica: Below Zero?

Player Reviews0 Votes

Critic Reviews for Subnautica: Below Zero

Critic Reviews

Score Distribution

46

Reviews

Average Score - 83/100

83%

Ranges

9/10

Leana Hafer (IGN)

Subnautica: Below Zero is a leaner, meaner standalone expansion to Subnautica that improves on the story and mechanics, but doesn’t give us as much room to explore.

May 11, 2021 |

Full Review

Even if there are a lot of shared elements between the two games and the ground-based traversal isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be, Below Zero’s greater focus on character-driven storytelling lands well and this standalone adventure captures the unrivaled magic of underwater exploration all over again.

May 11, 2021 |

Full Review

8.5/10

Jordan Devore (Destructoid)

7/10

Sammy Barker (Push Square)

Not everyone will warm up to Subnautica: Below Zero, but it’s an unquestionably rewarding release once you begin to get a foothold into the frigid foray. The game’s constantly tantalising you with new, exciting equipment, and its otherworldly ocean is an immersive environment in which to spend your time. A lack of landmarks mean that it can be a little too easy to get lost, and the story is light and largely uninteresting – but if the act of building an underwater base appeals to you, then this PS5 sequel unquestionably has strong foundations.

May 11, 2021 |

Full Review

Leana Hafer (IGN)

9/10 - (Read Review)

Subnautica: Below Zero is a leaner, meaner standalone expansion to Subnautica that improves on the story and mechanics, but doesn’t give us as much room to explore.

Jordan Devore (Destructoid)

8.5/10 - (Read Review)

Sammy Barker (Push Square)

7/10 - (Read Review)

**Read all 46 critic reviews on the desktop version of VSG.

Read the Reviews (46 total)

Outlet	Author	Score	Date	Quote	Read
33bits	Jesús Díaz-Suelto Berrueco	90 / 100	05-20-2021	The mere fact of not having gone further in its playable base compared to the previous one is the only thing that retains this title. A fantastic sequel that fans of the original will adore that deepens -pun intended- the virtues of its predecessor and helps quench a thirst for adventures of solitary exploration in hostile and mysterious environments.	Read review
Atomix	Rodolfo León	86 / 100	05-18-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is easily one of the best survival/exploration games of this year, and you should definitely check it out even if you weren’t a fan of the first game.	Read review
Attack of the Fanboy	Brandon Adams	4 / 5 stars	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero doesn’t reach the same heights as the first game, but it’s proof Unknown World’s 2018 survival game wasn’t a fluke. The act of exploring a mysterious underwater world whilst trying to survive is nearly as captivating in Below Zero as it was then. I’m still not a fan of the survival genre, yet I loved every moment I spent with Subnautica: Below Zero. I may know most of the tricks by now, but that didn’t make the experience any less magical.	Read review
AusGamers	Steve Farrelly	9 / 10	05-24-2021	The reasons for that are two-fold: it was the most up-to-date version of the game I ploughed through, and two: it represents Unknown Worlds’ reinvigorated trust in its own console development chops, which was	Read review
CGMagazine	Preston Dozsa	7.5 / 10	05-28-2021	While not quite reaching the heights of its predecessor, Subnautica: Below Zero is still a survival game worth diving into.	Read review
Checkpoint Gaming	Justin White	7 / 10	05-25-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is another masterclass in survival gaming, setting itself apart from the overabundance of survival games on the market with its tranquil ocean setting, addicting exploration, and unique wildlife. If you are a fan of the previous title or survival games in general, this really ticks all the boxes that you are looking for, providing an enthralling world to explore and get lost in, all with gorgeous graphics and sound design. It can at times feel like a retread of the previous game with a few tweaks and additions, but Subnautica was by no means a bad game, so this is still a very well-crafted follow-up in the series.	Read review
COGconnected	James Paley	80 / 100	05-11-2021	The various gameplay loops have been tweaked, modified, and expanded from the original, but fans of the first game will find a lot of this very familiar. On the other hand, if you’ve been starving for more Subnautica, Below Zero is an absolute feast. You’re constantly scanning, salvaging, crafting, cooking, and expanding your little empire. Depending on your tolerance for stress, this can either be a serene little salt-crusted sandbox, or a nail-biting marathon. Either way, Subnautica: Below Zero is one ocean expedition you won’t want to miss.	Read review
Critical Hit	Brad Lang	8.5 / 10	05-19-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero presents the player not only with a harsh tundra to live in but the icy depths underneath it all. It’s tense, challenging, and always engaging, pushed on by a surprisingly in-depth narrative and characters that make eventually leaving behind all those magnificent alien animals all the more challenging when you eventually roll credits.	Read review
Cultured Vultures	Chris Baldwin	8.5 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero makes you feel like arctic explorers as you traverse the icy climate of planet 4546B. If you are able to stick with it and continue to move forward to find ways to dive deeper, Below Zero has plenty of discoveries to uncover.	Read review
Destructoid	Jordan Devore	8.5 / 10	05-11-2021	Even if there are a lot of shared elements between the two games and the ground-based traversal isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be, Below Zero’s greater focus on character-driven storytelling lands well and this standalone adventure captures the unrivaled magic of underwater exploration all over again.	Read review
Digital Chumps	Alex Tudor	8.5 / 10	03-17-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is not as large as 2014’s Subnautica but it is as deep. Between its fantastically mysterious story to its compelling biome, Below Zero builds upon what made the first game strong while being unique all on its own. The on-land segments of the game were pretty lackluster overall, which was slightly disappointing; but for a game that is all about discovering what lies beneath, Subnautica: Below Zero is a breath of fresh air.	Read review
Digitally Downloaded	Matt Sainsbury	3.5 / 5 stars	05-12-2021	In many ways survival games represent the ultimate conclusion of the open-world ethos	Read review
Everyeye.it	Gabriele Laurino	8.5 / 10	06-05-2021	While not revolutionizing the experience of its predecessor, Subnautica: Below Zero enriches and expands unknown worlds’ excellent playful insights, packing a stimulating and inspired narrative survival. If you are looking for an experience focused on simulated survival, but at the same time prefer to let yourself be taken by the hand by a guided but intelligent advancement, then all you have to do is sink into the depths of 4546B.	Read review
Game Informer	Andrew Reiner	9 / 10	05-11-2021	It’s technically a survival game, but it feels more like a grand adventure that is free of many of the genre’s frustrations	Read review
Game Rant	Pam K. Ferdinand	4.5 / 5 stars	05-12-2021	In developing Subnautica: Below Zero, Unknown Worlds heeded the lessons learned from Subnautica and the feedback received from players about both games over the years. Below Zero has taken no steps backward and instead offers an even more polished experience than its predecessor. As for gameplay and story, it’s not necessarily a better game, but it is certainly just as good.	Read review
GameSkinny	Jason D’Aprile	8 / 10	05-10-2021	The follow-up to Subnautica offers more of the same intriguing mix of gorgeous underwater exploration, survival and crafting, and fascinating alien intrigue.	Read review
GameSpew	Chris Mc	9 / 10	05-11-2021	This is a game where there’s not a radio tower, time trial or lengthy side-quest to be seen, and with a few exceptions, it’s down to you to make your own fun. And you know what? It’s an absolute joy to just get out there and mess around, embracing the thrill of discovery. It manages to be fresh, even if you’ve played the original. Subnautica: Below Zero is the most refreshing, engaging sandbox game I’ve played in ages and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t dive right in.	Read review
Gaming Nexus	Eric Hauter	9.5 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero further refines the survival sim, setting a new highpoint for the genre with sky-high production values and amazing world building. Every excursion is risky and rewarding, as the game continues to tease, push, and pull the player ever deeper into its labyrinth. An extraordinary visual delight, Below Zero has the chops to match its graphics with superb gameplay. Subnautica: Below Zero is a masterclass in game design.	Read review
GamingBolt	Shubhankar Parijat	8 / 10	05-13-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero once again delivers an experience with engaging exploration set in a mysterious, beautiful, and haunting underwater world.	Read review
GamingTrend	Kristian Longden	80 / 100	05-12-2021	Technical issues and autosave woes aside, I’ve really enjoyed my time with Subnautica: Below Zero. While the story beats are pretty hit and miss, and there are quite a few bugs and technical issues to contend with, the core gameplay of building and exploring is addictive, and in many instances provides that child-like sense of wonder that many games aim for but struggle to achieve.	Read review
Generación Xbox	Alejandro Serrador	8.5 / 10	05-12-2021	‎The narrative, a desperate quest, the great mysteries of planet 4546B and the surprises we will find ourselves on it. Subnautica: Below Zero considers these elements in order to offer us an icy underwater adventure that expands the experience of the original work. An enjoyable and beneficial adventure for all kinds of players who survive on the cold glacier without relying on anyone. It also calls ‎‎for the importance of enhancing discovery and‎‎ exploration for full development; the significance of experimenting to solve the different problems that may arise in a dynamic, complex, diverse and hostile environment. At the end of the day, we’re all explorers who want to understand the world we’re in.‎	Read review
Guardian	Tom Bramwell	4 / 5 stars	05-11-2021	Survive under the waves on a frozen planet in this freeform adventure where following the instinct to explore is the real goal	Read review
IGN	Leana Hafer	9 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is a leaner, meaner standalone expansion to Subnautica that improves on the story and mechanics, but doesn’t give us as much room to explore.	Read review
Metro GameCentral	GameCentral	7 / 10	05-11-2021	A mellow paced and captivating game of underwater exploration, crafting, and discovery, that feels more like a Subnautica expansion than a discrete sequel.	Read review
New Game Network	Ben Thomas	74 / 100	05-19-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is a good survival game, even if the new frozen land areas are not fun to explore and the story has several pacing issues. Fortunately, the solid progression system and mastery of the sea makes it easy to recommend for fans of the original.	Read review
Nintendo Life	PJ O’Reilly	9 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica and its excellent sequel have arrived on Switch in unexpectedly fine form. This is an absolutely essential survival smorgasbord, a fantastic port and something of a must-buy double feature for fans of the genre. If you’re purchasing one or the other separately on Switch we’d still plump for the original game, as Below Zero’s fleshed out narrative and on-foot sections dilute the overall experience ever so slightly, but, regardless of which you choose, you’re in for a mighty good time here with two of the very best survival games currently available on any platform.	Read review
Nintendo Wire	Unknown	9 / 10	05-13-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero’s adventure is equal parts survival sim and sci-fi thriller, and should you decide to take the plunge into its icy depths, you’re sure to find one of the most robust and satisfying survival titles on the eShop.	Read review
NintendoWorldReport	Jordan Rudek	8 / 10	05-11-2021	Fortunately, there are a few different options at the game’s start menu that make the experience somewhat customizable, like removing the hunger and thirst parameters. Ultimately, there is much to discover both below and above the waterline, including aliens, mysterious messages, and even a mech that can walk on the ocean floor. While those looking out for signposting and clear directions should probably keep their feet dry, those who enjoy a more laid-back, albeit grindy, experience can safely dip their toes in these waters.	Read review
Noisy Pixel	Nathan Meji	9 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero offers an amazing world of discoveries through a mysteriously captivating campaign to uncover. Every moment exploring is rewarded through stunning environments, and I wanted to continue my adventure if only to see a little more. There are some moments of confusion through resource management, but once you dive in, Subnautica: Below Zero won’t have you coming up for air any time soon.	Read review
PC Gamer	Rick Lane	86 / 100	05-12-2021	Below Zero is a mostly brilliant sequel to the best survival game of all time.	Read review
PC Invasion	Jason Rodriguez	8.5 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero presents an exciting adventure as you explore the unknown. Whether you’re trekking through the snow or diving down unfathomable depths, there’s a feeling of dread as you try to survive, and a sense of wonderment as you discover something new.	Read review
PlayStation LifeStyle	Paulmichael Contreras	8 / 10	05-14-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero will grow on you, if you give it time. While the beginning hours aren’t nearly as rough as the last time around, a dedicated session or two of several hours is essentially mandatory before the adventure really starts to open up. After that, though, the sense of exploration is fantastic, the story is engaging, and the views can be spectacular. Fans of Subnautica should pick this up as soon as they can, and anyone else interested in exploration-style games should also give it a shot. Subnautica: Below Zero continues in its predecessor’s footsteps in all the right ways, with some additions that help make the adventure more accessible. You’ll be glad you took the plunge.	Read review
PlayStation Universe	Dan Twohig	8.5 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is a sublimely addictive timesink and an exemplary survival adventure game that transcends the genre. The improvements to the formula of the original game are minimal but impactful. Fans of the franchise will certainly have plenty to get into, and the appeal is broad enough to welcome many more newcomers to the experience. Whilst there is little ground broken in terms of visuals, Subnautica: Below Zero more than compensates with an all-round stellar experience that rivals that of bigger budget productions.	Read review
Press Start	James Berich	8.5 / 10	05-12-2021	In a genre that often isn’t for everyone, it’s hard to see who wouldn’t enjoy what Subnautica: Below Zero has to offer. It flourishes an enthralling sense of exploration and progression with a serviceable narrative to boot. It’s not without its flaws, but there’s nothing quite like it besides its predecessor, perfectly encapsulating the curiosity and dread that comes with exploring the deep.	Read review
PSX Brasil	Bruno Ribeiro	90 / 100	05-24-2021	Like its predecessor, Subnautica: Below Zero entertains in each of its little details. The story is able to arouse your curiosity and the infinity of possibilities makes you want to play more and more, be it building, exploring or investigating. Hours in front of the TV are guaranteed.	Read review
Push Square	Sammy Barker	7 / 10	05-11-2021	Not everyone will warm up to Subnautica: Below Zero, but it’s an unquestionably rewarding release once you begin to get a foothold into the frigid foray. The game’s constantly tantalising you with new, exciting equipment, and its otherworldly ocean is an immersive environment in which to spend your time. A lack of landmarks mean that it can be a little too easy to get lost, and the story is light and largely uninteresting – but if the act of building an underwater base appeals to you, then this PS5 sequel unquestionably has strong foundations.	Read review
Screen Rant	Joseph Fonseca	4 / 5 stars	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero doesn’t revolutionize the Subnautica formula, but builds on it. Every new venture into the depths is full of calculated terror, the narrative is more interesting and personal, the horrors are memorable, and survival rarely feels trivial. Subnautica: Below Zero is as good a Thalassophobia simulator as anyone could hope for.	Read review
SECTOR.sk	Branislav Kohút	7.5 / 10	05-27-2021	Try to survive again, this time in cold waters with icy islands. It is not as good as the first game, however still amusing.	Read review
Sirus Gaming	Leif Rey Bornales	8 / 10	05-25-2021	Overall, if you’re into exploration and survival games where you can spend hours and hours just collecting materials to create equipment and other items, then I recommend Subnautica Below Zero. It has just the right balance of everything you can hope for in a survival game. It is a great addition to the series and will hopefully pave the way for many games in the future.	Read review
TechRaptor	Alex Verdini	8.5 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero delivers big with storytelling, quality of life improvements, and new beautiful areas to explore.	Read review
The Games Machine	Emanuele Feronato	9 / 10	05-11-2021	Mix the feeling of weakness of the movie Open Water with a compelling story, a world to explore in metroidvania style kind of like in Don’t Starve, add the maniacal detail of In Other Waters, shake and there we have Subnautica: Below Zero, an intriguing sci-fi survival with just a bit of horror. While at first it might seem a little limited in scope, with a bit of patience you will soon realize how great of a game it is.	Read review
TheSixthAxis	Jason Coles	8 / 10	05-11-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is a masterfully horrific experience that encourages you to push on despite your fears. It’s a fine balancing act of the horrors you’ll face underwater and the rewards you can get for evading them. It’s really very hard, but it’s also really very good.	Read review
Washington Post	Christopher Byrd	Not Recommended	06-11-2021	“Subnautica: Below Zero’s” conventional sci-fi story line, which revolves around a greedy corporation looking to get ahead in the weapons business, never raised my interest. But the painstaking effort it takes to get Robin from one minor narrative point of interest to another made me appreciate its small, very human scale of success.	Read review
WayTooManyGames	Leonardo Faria	8.5 / 10	05-15-2021	In all honesty, yes, Subnautica: Below Zero is just more Subnautica, but don’t think of that as a bad thing. It might not have that many new features when compared to its predecessor, but considering how excellent the original game was, having yet another well-designed Subnautica, with a brand new map to explore and challenges to overcome, will always be worth celebrating.	Read review
Wccftech	Chris Wray	7.5 / 10	05-11-2021	If you liked Subnautica, Subnautica: Below Zero still has the base of what made the original great	Read review
ZTGD	Ken McKown	8 / 10	05-25-2021	Subnautica: Below Zero is a great follow-up to one of the best in the genre. It dishes out the survival aspects in more digestible chunks than some of the more extreme cases. This makes it much more approachable for players like me who are intimidated by the restrictions of the genre. Do not let the nature of the game scare you away. This is a beautiful experience that I recommend if for nothing else, but to experience the ridiculously beautiful world Unknown Worlds has created.	Read review

** Learn more about how to become a MetaMeter-approved Critic.

Game Info

Game Description / Storyline:

Dive into a freezing underwater adventure on an alien planet. Below Zero is set two years after the original Subnautica. Return to Planet 4546B to uncover the truth behind a deadly cover-up. Survive by building habitats, crafting tools, & diving deeper into the world of Subnautica.

RELEASE DATES:

DEVELOPER(S):

PUBLISHER(S):

GENRES:

SERIES/FRANCHISE:

GAME MODES:

GAME ENGINE:

DLC:

BUNDLED IN:

DIRECTOR(S):

PRODUCER(S):

DESIGNER(S):

PROGRAMMER(S):

ARTIST(S):

WRITER(S):

COMPOSER(S):

LINKS:

AGE RATING:

Detailed Information

GAME MODES:

GAME ENGINE:

DLC:

BUNDLED IN:

DIRECTOR(S):

PRODUCER(S):

DESIGNER(S):

PROGRAMMER(S):

ARTIST(S):

WRITER(S):

COMPOSER(S):

Developed by Unknown Worlds Entertainment. All titles, content, brand names, trademarks, logos, artwork, and associated imagery are trademarks and/or copyright material of their respective owners. © All rights reserved.