After a protracted legal battle over a disputed payout, Krafton has agreed to pay the developers of Subnautica 2, and the bonus update has proven to be a game-changer for Unknown Worlds. The dispute is over a potential $250 million earnout related to Krafton’s acquisition of Unknown Worlds in 2021 and the commercial performance of Subnautica 2. Krafton and Unknown Worlds now say the dispute has been settled, with bonuses to be paid out to all existing employees over three years. The update also includes one more major change at the top, with Ted Gill resigning as CEO after a judge’s reinstatement. But the big thing with Subnautica 2 is that it’s remains available in Early Access for players. The settlement may help clear the air surrounding the studio and allow the team to focus more clearly on updates, fixes, and long-term development.
What was the bonus controversy in Subnautica 2?
The Subnautica 2 bonus fight was one of the largest stories in the gaming industry, which involved studio leadership, acquisition terms, legal action and a much-anticipated game launch. It has been reported that Krafton acquired Unknown Worlds in 2021, with an earnout based on future revenue targets. The removal of the key Unknown Worlds leaders before they could take their payout just added fuel to the fire. Leaders later sued, claiming the move hurt the studio and affected the bonus. Then the case took another turn, when a judge restored Ted Gill as chief executive. The settlement now seeks to end the legal battle and clear the way for staff payments.
Krafton to compensate developers
The biggest news is that Krafton will be paying bonuses to the Unknown Worlds developers. The reports state the payments will be made to all existing staff members, not just those who were in the studio when it was purchased by Krafton. This is important because the previous debate was on who would benefit from the earnout, and whether the wider development team would be rewarded. The bonuses will be staggered over three years so the money won’t be paid out in one go. The deal is significant in that it acknowledges the developers after a rough patch, but not all the terms of the settlement were made public. It could also help restore trust in the studio.
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A big piece of the settlement is the resignation of CEO Ted Gill. His departure is significant as he had only been reinstated to the role after a court case over who was in charge. “Unknown Worlds may now be in a reset phase,” Gill said, “and new leadership is the best way forward for the studio.” His exit isn’t necessarily bad news for Subnautica 2, but it does represent the end of a turbulent chapter of leadership. The new CEO/leadership team will be responsible for taking the game through Early Access, keeping the developers on track, communicating with players and delivering the updates promised on the roadmap.
Priyanshu Naithani writes about the fast-moving world of technology, including gadgets, apps, software, cybersecurity, digital trends, artificial intelligence, and innovation. His coverage is designed to make complex tech topics easier to understand and more useful for everyday readers.