KRAFTON Replaces Original Unknown Worlds Leadership Ahead of Subnautica 2 Early Access Launch
KRAFTON, the South Korean publisher and owner of PUBG Studios, announced a major leadership change today at its subsidiary Unknown Worlds Entertainment, the acclaimed developer behind Subnautica. The company revealed that it has replaced the original studio founders—Charlie Cleveland, Ted Gill, and Max McGuire—with Steve Papoutsis, a veteran of the games industry best known for his role at Visceral Games and as the co-creator of Dead Space.
A Strategic Shift as Subnautica 2 Approaches
KRAFTON acquired Unknown Worlds in October 2021, but until now, the studio retained its original leadership structure. That has changed with the formal appointment of Steve Papoutsis as CEO, signaling a new phase for the studio as it nears the early access launch of Subnautica 2, scheduled for later this year on PC and Xbox Series S|X, including day-one availability on Xbox Game Pass.
This leadership transition comes at a pivotal moment, as KRAFTON seeks to sharpen its focus on delivering a refined and engaging sequel to one of the most beloved survival games in recent years.
KRAFTON’s Vision for Subnautica 2
In a statement accompanying the announcement, CH Kim, CEO of KRAFTON, emphasized the importance of player satisfaction and the urgent need to deliver a polished experience:
"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. We are thrilled Steve is joining us in our shared commitment... to deliver Subnautica 2 as a more complete and satisfying entry in the series—one that truly lives up to player expectations."
Kim’s remarks also suggest a desire for faster and more directed development as Subnautica 2 heads toward its launch window.
Steve Papoutsis Steps In with Experience and Focus
Steve Papoutsis brings a deep legacy in narrative and systems-driven game development. A key figure behind Dead Space and former CEO of Striking Distance Studios (which developed The Callisto Protocol, also under KRAFTON), Papoutsis is expected to bring veteran leadership to guide Subnautica 2 through early access and beyond.
“Player experience is our North Star,” Papoutsis said. “The team is laser-focused on delivering the best possible game for the Subnautica community. We appreciate Ted, Charlie, and Max for their past roles... and thank the fans for your devotion and patience.”
His remarks echo KRAFTON’s goal to ensure a stable, content-rich, and high-quality launch that respects the expectations of the dedicated Subnautica community.
The Road Ahead for Subnautica 2
Subnautica 2 is expected to retain its hallmark underwater exploration and survival mechanics, while expanding gameplay systems with co-op features and more sophisticated environments. With early access planned for PC and Xbox Series X|S, and availability through Game Pass, the sequel has significant exposure and potential. The leadership change may indicate a tighter, more production-focused development cycle as the title nears release.
What are your thoughts on the leadership shakeup at Unknown Worlds? Does this signal a bold new direction or raise concerns about development stability? Join the discussion below.
