Court Rules for Subnautica 2 Studio CEO’s Reinstatement, Grants Control Over Early Access Launch

A judge has ruled in the ongoing legal dispute between the cofounders of Subnautica developer Unknown Worlds and Krafton, ordering Krafton to reinstate CEO Ted Gill and grant him control over the Early Access release plans for Subnautica 2. This decision comes nearly nine months after unexpected firings and conflicting claims placed one of Steam’s most anticipated titles at the center of a complicated lawsuit.

“Judgment is entered in favor of Fortis [representing the Unknown Worlds founders] on its Phase One claims,” stated Vice Chancellor Lori W. Will in the ruling from the Delaware Chancery Court. “Krafton breached the EPA by terminating the Key Employees without valid Cause and by improperly seizing operational control of Unknown Worlds.”

Consequently, the “July 1, 2025 Board resolution” that led to Gill and others being dismissed is now deemed ineffective regarding Gill’s operational control rights. The judge has instructed Krafton not to obstruct the reinstated CEO’s authority over the early access launch of Subnautica 2 and to restore his access to the Steam platform.

Additionally, the judge has extended the timeframe for the team to qualify for a $250 million payout as part of Unknown Worlds’ sale to Krafton. The cofounders can now earn the bonus based on the studio’s performance until September 15, 2026, with the possibility of extending this period even further.

This is a developing story.