Games Like Subnautica: Plunge Into These Thrilling Titles

Water covers over 70% of our planet, but let’s be real—what’s really going on beneath those waves is still a total mystery! The ocean depths are equal parts awe-inspiring and terrifying, full of shimmering alien reefs, dark abysses, and creatures that might just make you question your life choices. If you’ve already braved the eerie underwater world of Subnautica, you know how captivating (and occasionally spine-chilling) oceanic survival can be. With its stunning landscapes, mysterious creatures, and a constant survival challenge, Subnautica has carved out a special spot in our gaming hearts. But what happens when you’ve explored every nook and cranny of Planet 4546B and find yourself craving more? Fear not! The gaming world is filled with adventures that capture the same magic—whether it’s uncovering alien mysteries, crafting your way to survival, or diving deep into uncharted territories. So, grab your diving mask, take a deep breath, and get ready to explore some of the best games like Subnautica – the ocean is calling!

Where to Play Subnautica:

Steam – PS Store – Xbox Store – Nintendo Store

Diving Deeper into the Depths: What Makes Subnautica So Special?

Before we plunge into a treasure trove of games like Subnautica, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate just why Unknown Worlds Entertainment’s masterpiece has captivated so many of us here at Pixel Pop Corner. Released back in January 2018, Subnautica wasn’t just another survival game; it was a breathtaking journey into an alien ocean, teeming with both wonder and terrifying beauty. Its immersive underwater exploration, the sheer alien-ness of its ecosystems, and a storyline that kept us hooked made it an instant classic. Subnautica masterfully blended the tension of survival with the joy of discovery, all wrapped up in a deep-sea mystery that begged to be unraveled.

Gameplay: Surviving and Thriving on Planet 4546B

Imagine waking up as the sole survivor of a catastrophic spaceship crash, only to find yourself adrift on an alien planet entirely covered in water. That’s the exhilarating (and slightly terrifying) premise of Subnautica. Dropped onto the watery surface of Planet 4546B, players are immediately tasked with the fundamental need to survive. This means navigating a stunning yet treacherous underwater world, scavenging for vital resources, and learning to craft the tools and habitats necessary to stay alive.

The core gameplay loop revolves around exploration and survival. From the vibrant coral reefs teeming with life (hello, adorable fish!) to the shadowy depths of volcanic craters and the pitch-black abyss, each biome on 4546B is a unique and often dangerous place to explore. These diverse environments are home to an incredible array of alien flora and fauna, some of which are essential for crafting, while others are best avoided (unless you fancy becoming Leviathan lunch!). As players venture deeper, the mysteries of the planet begin to unfold, often accompanied by increasingly formidable and, let’s be honest, nightmare-inducing creatures.

Crafting and Building Your Underwater Sanctuary

A cornerstone of Subnautica‘s addictive gameplay is its robust crafting system. You’ll be constantly gathering resources—from common metals and minerals to bizarre alien plants—and combining them to create everything from basic tools and essential equipment to sprawling underwater bases. Balancing your needs for food, water, and that ever-precious oxygen is crucial, and constructing underwater habitats becomes your lifeline. These bases aren’t just for shelter; they’re where you can set up crafting stations, upgrade your gear, and even grow your own food. The ability to customize and expand your underwater home adds a real sense of progression and ownership to your survival.

Storyline: Unraveling the Mysteries of an Alien World

Subnautica isn’t just about surviving against the odds; it also weaves a compelling narrative that unfolds as you explore and interact with the environment. Beyond the immediate struggle for survival, there’s a larger mystery surrounding Planet 4546B itself. Who were the Precursors, the ancient alien race who left their mark on the planet? What really caused the Aurora to crash? By discovering abandoned bases, piecing together cryptic datapads, and listening to fragmented radio transmissions, players gradually uncover the planet’s secrets and the challenges they must ultimately face.

Expanding the Adventure: Subnautica: Below Zero

The resounding success of Subnautica paved the way for a standalone expansion, Subnautica: Below Zero. Initially released in early access in January 2019 and fully launched in May 2021, Below Zero takes players to the frosty arctic regions of Planet 4546B. While retaining the core gameplay elements that made the original so beloved, Below Zero introduces new biomes, creatures, and a chilly new environment to conquer. Players step into the shoes of a scientist investigating the disappearance of her sister, uncovering even more of the planet’s secrets and the mysteries lurking beneath the ice.

Reception: A Deep Dive into Critical Acclaim

Subnautica was met with widespread critical acclaim and a passionate player base. Praised for its breathtaking and atmospheric underwater world, engaging gameplay loop, and captivating narrative, it quickly became a benchmark for the survival genre. Critics and players alike lauded the game’s ability to build tension, creating moments of both awe-inspiring wonder at the marine life and sheer terror when encountering its more… assertive inhabitants. Subnautica truly stands out as a shining example of how to craft an unforgettable adventure filled with discovery, danger, and a deep sense of intrigue.

So, you’ve braved the depths of 4546B, built your dream underwater base, and maybe even had a close encounter (or ten) with a Reaper Leviathan. Now what? If you’re still craving that unique blend of survival, exploration, and mystery, then dive right in with us as we explore more games like Subnautica that are sure to make a splash!

Games Like Subnautica: Beyond Planet 4546B

So, you’ve conquered the crushing depths, built your underwater empire, and maybe even made peace with the local Leviathans of Subnautica. The question now is, where do you turn to next to scratch that same itch for exploration, survival, and uncovering the mysteries of an alien world? Fear not, fellow aquanauts and adventurers! While nothing quite replicates the specific magic of Subnautica‘s underwater realm, there’s a treasure trove of games out there that share its core DNA. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of surviving against the odds, the satisfaction of crafting your way out of a tight spot, or the allure of uncovering a compelling narrative in an unfamiliar environment, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to explore new frontiers, both beneath the waves and amongst the stars, as we dive into some of the best games like Subnautica that will keep your adventurous spirit thriving.

Games Like Subnautica – Underwater Exploration & Survival

These games plunge you into the depths, challenging you to explore, survive, and often manage your resources in fascinating underwater environments. If the vast alien oceans of Subnautica had you hooked, these games offer similar thrills, albeit with their own unique twists and flavors.

Below Zero (Subnautica Sequel): More Underwater Exploration and Survival

More Underwater Exploration and Survival Platform

Availability: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

If Subnautica left you wanting more, Below Zero is the natural next step. Set in the freezing waters of Planet 4546B, Below Zero offers an even more intense underwater experience, with new biomes, creatures, and a cold, unforgiving environment to survive in. Think Subnautica, but with extra ice and even more mysteries to uncover!

Key Features:

• Explore the freezing depths of Planet 4546B
• Discover new biomes and alien life forms (penguins!)
• Craft tools, vehicles (including a snow scooter!), and habitats to survive the cold
• New narrative focused on the disappearance of your sister
• Build bases, explore caves, and venture into treacherous waters
• Land exploration adds a new dimension to the gameplay

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Direct sequel and shares the same universe
• Underwater exploration and survival mechanics with added cold environment challenges
• Crafting, resource management, and base-building
• A compelling narrative that expands on the lore of Planet 4546B

Why You’ll Love It:

If Subnautica had you hooked, Below Zero adds a chilling twist, bringing more exploration, crafting, and survival in a world that’s as harsh as it is beautiful. Plus, who can resist those adorable Penglings?

Abzu: Dive into a Beautiful Underwater Journey

Relaxed, Artistic Underwater Exploration

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Ready for a breather after all that survival stress? Abzu offers a more serene and artistic take on underwater exploration. There’s no need to worry about oxygen levels or hostile creatures here; instead, you’re free to swim alongside schools of fish, explore ancient ruins, and simply soak in the beauty of the ocean.

Key Features:

• Stunning visuals and a beautiful soundtrack
• Focus on peaceful exploration and discovery
• Opportunities to interact with diverse marine life
• A sense of wonder and tranquility

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Focus on underwater exploration and the beauty of marine environments
• A sense of discovery as you uncover hidden areas
• Evokes a similar feeling of immersion in an alien underwater world (though less dangerous!)

Why You’ll Love It:

If you loved the sense of awe and wonder Subnautica’s underwater world evoked, Abzu dials that up to eleven, offering a relaxing and meditative experience. It’s like an interactive screensaver, but way more engaging!

Dredge: Fish the Depths, Face the Darkness

Fishing, Exploration, and Dark Twists in the Ocean

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Don’t let the charming fishing boat fool you; Dredge has some dark secrets lurking beneath its tranquil surface. This game blends relaxing fishing mechanics with unsettling cosmic horror as you explore a mysterious archipelago. Dredge offers a unique twist on the exploration and resource gathering formula, with a day-night cycle that significantly impacts the creatures you encounter.

Key Features:

• Relaxing fishing mechanics with a dark undercurrent
• Explore a mysterious archipelago with unique islands and secrets
• Uncover a sinister narrative as you dredge up more than just fish
• Manage your sanity as you encounter increasingly disturbing creatures

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of a unique aquatic environment is central to the gameplay
• A sense of mystery and a narrative that unfolds as you explore
• A focus on resource gathering (in this case, fish and other salvage)

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the sense of mystery and the occasional scare in Subnautica, Dredge offers a similar experience with a unique fishing twist and a growing sense of dread. It’s like a cozy fishing trip gone very, very wrong.

Barotrauma: Survive the Abyss in Co-op Chaos

Co-op Submarine Survival with Deep-Sea Exploration

Platform Availability: PC

Ready for some chaotic co-op underwater adventures? Barotrauma throws you and your friends into the cramped confines of a submarine navigating the treacherous alien oceans of Jupiter’s moon Europa. It’s a tense mix of submarine simulation, survival horror, and problem-solving, where teamwork is essential to survive both internal malfunctions and terrifying external threats.

Key Features:

• Co-op gameplay where you and your friends manage a submarine
• Detailed submarine systems that require teamwork to operate
• Survival horror elements as you encounter dangerous alien creatures
• A strong emphasis on communication and coordination

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Underwater exploration of an alien ocean environment
• Survival elements, including managing resources and dealing with threats
• A sense of unease and danger lurking in the depths

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the tense moments in Subnautica and think everything’s better with friends, Barotrauma offers a uniquely challenging and rewarding co-op experience. Just be prepared for things to go hilariously (and sometimes tragically) wrong.

We Need to Go Deeper: Co-op Submarine Adventures

Co-op Underwater Exploration and Submarine Management

Platform Availability: PC, Nintendo Switch

Sticking with the co-op theme, We Need to Go Deeper offers a more cartoonish and chaotic take on submarine exploration. You and your friends pilot a quirky submarine through procedurally generated underwater environments, battling bizarre creatures and trying to keep your vessel from falling apart. It’s less serious than Barotrauma but just as reliant on teamwork (and often just as hilarious).

Key Features:

• 2-4 player co-op submarine exploration
• Procedurally generated levels for endless replayability
• Whacky and over-the-top submarine upgrades and weapons
• A lighthearted and often silly tone

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Underwater exploration of strange and varied environments
• A focus on managing a submarine and its systems
• A sense of discovery as you encounter new creatures and locations

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the exploration aspect of Subnautica and are looking for a fun and frantic co-op experience, We Need to Go Deeper is a great choice. Just don’t expect a relaxing dive!

Aquanox: Deep Descent: Submarine Combat in a Sunken World

Underwater Exploration and Combat with a Vehicle Focus

Platform Availability: PC

If you’re looking for something with a bit more action, Aquanox: Deep Descent puts you in the pilot seat of customizable underwater vehicles. Set in a post-apocalyptic underwater world, you’ll explore vast environments, engage in submarine combat, and unravel a conspiracy that threatens the remnants of humanity.

Key Features:

• Fast-paced underwater vehicle combat
• Explore a post-apocalyptic underwater world
• A focus on story and character development
• Customizable submarines with different weapons and abilities

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Underwater exploration of a unique and often dangerous world
• A compelling narrative that drives exploration
• The importance of vehicles for traversing the environment

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the vehicle piloting in Subnautica and are looking for a more combat-oriented experience with a strong narrative, Aquanox: Deep Descent offers a different but engaging take on underwater exploration.

The Aquatic Adventure of the Last Human: Journey Through a Dying Ocean

Post-Apocalyptic, Narrative-Driven Underwater Exploration

Platform Availability: PC, Nintendo Switch

This indie gem offers a melancholic and atmospheric take on underwater exploration. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has vanished, you play as the last human, exploring the flooded ruins of civilization and encountering mutated sea creatures. It’s a more linear and narrative-focused experience than Subnautica, with a beautiful art style and a sense of quiet wonder.

Key Features:

• Beautiful hand-painted art style
• A poignant and mysterious narrative
• Exploration of flooded human cities and natural environments
• Unique boss battles against mutated creatures

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Underwater exploration of a post-apocalyptic world
• A strong sense of atmosphere and mystery
• A narrative that unfolds as you explore

Why You’ll Love It:

If you were drawn to the sense of mystery and the feeling of exploring a lost world in Subnautica, The Aquatic Adventure of the Last Human offers a similar experience with a more artistic and narrative-driven approach.

Submerged: Explore a Sunken City in Peace

Peaceful Exploration in a Flooded World

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Looking for something a little less stressful? Submerged offers a peaceful and relaxing experience as you explore the ruins of a flooded city. There’s no combat or survival mechanics here; instead, you focus on navigating the environment using a small boat and uncovering the story of the city and its inhabitants.

Key Features:

• Beautiful and serene flooded city to explore
• Focus on peaceful exploration and puzzle-solving
• A touching story told through environmental storytelling
• No combat or time limits, allowing for relaxed gameplay

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of a unique and visually striking flooded environment
• A focus on uncovering a narrative through exploration
• A sense of wonder and discovery as you explore the ruins of a lost civilization

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the moments of tranquility and the sense of discovery in Subnautica, Submerged offers a similar experience in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant setting. It’s a great game to unwind with.

Games Like Subnautica – Open-World Survival & Crafting: Beyond the Waves

While these games might not have you swimming with alien leviathans, they capture that same addictive loop of crafting, surviving, and exploring vast, open environments. If you loved building your underwater bases and feeling the satisfaction of overcoming the odds in Subnautica, prepare to get your hands dirty in forests, deserts, and even alien planets!

Raft: Sail the Seas, Survive the Waves

Floating Home Survival

Platform Availability: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S,

Imagine starting with nothing but a small wooden raft in the middle of the ocean. That’s Raft for you! This game emphasizes crafting and expanding your floating home while surviving the dangers of the open sea, including a very persistent shark. It’s all about resourcefulness and turning driftwood into a seaworthy (and hopefully shark-proof) vessel.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Focus on survival and resource management in an aquatic environment
• Crafting is central to progression, allowing you to build and expand your base (in this case, a raft)
• Exploration of islands and underwater locations for resources and secrets

Key Features:

• Start with a tiny raft and expand it into a multi-story floating base
• Craft tools, equipment, and defenses against the persistent shark
• Explore islands and dive underwater for resources
• A compelling sense of progression as you survive and thrive on the open sea

Why You’ll Love It:

Raft offers a unique take on survival, focusing on the dynamic environment of the ocean. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching your humble raft grow into a multi-story floating fortress. Plus, outsmarting that persistent shark is always a win!

The Forest: Survive the Woods, Uncover the Horror

Cannibalistic Woodland Nightmare

Platform Availability: PC, PS4

Swapping the ocean for a dense forest teeming with cannibalistic mutants, The Forest throws you into a terrifying survival scenario. You’ll need to chop down trees, build shelters, hunt for food, and craft weapons to defend yourself against the increasingly aggressive locals. It also has a compelling mystery to uncover, adding a narrative layer to the survival gameplay.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Open-world exploration with a focus on discovering new areas and resources
• Crafting is essential for survival, allowing you to build shelter, tools, and weapons
• A compelling narrative that unfolds as you explore and uncover secrets
• A sense of danger and tension as you face hostile creatures

Key Features:

• Intense survival horror in a dense forest environment
• Craft elaborate shelters and defenses against mutants
• A disturbing and engaging narrative to uncover
• Both single-player and co-op modes available

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the base-building and the moments of tension in Subnautica, The Forest cranks up the horror element while still providing a satisfying survival and crafting experience. Just try not to scream too loud when the mutants come knocking!

Green Hell: Jungle Survival, Primal Instincts

Realistic Amazonian Challenge

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Trading alien oceans for the lush but deadly Amazon rainforest, Green Hell is a brutally realistic survival game. It focuses on authentic survival techniques, forcing you to learn about edible plants, build shelters that withstand the elements, and treat your wounds. It’s a deep dive into the nitty-gritty of survival in a truly unforgiving environment.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Intense focus on survival, managing needs like hunger, thirst, and sanity
• Crafting is crucial, requiring you to utilize the environment’s resources
• Exploration of a dense and often dangerous natural environment

Key Features:

• Highly realistic survival mechanics, including detailed health management
• Explore a vast and dangerous Amazon rainforest
• Learn real-world survival skills to stay alive
• A gripping story mode alongside the survival sandbox

Why You’ll Love It:

If you appreciated the challenge of surviving in Subnautica, Green Hell takes that to the next level with its realistic survival mechanics and the constant threat of the jungle. It’s a game that will make you feel like a true survivor.

Grounded: Backyard Survival, Insect-Sized Peril

Honey, I Shrunk the Survival Game!

Platform Availability: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Ever wondered what it would be like to be shrunk down to the size of an insect and try to survive in your backyard? Grounded answers that question in a surprisingly engaging way. You’ll craft tools and shelters from blades of grass and dew drops while facing off against giant spiders, ants, and other backyard critters.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Survival in a unique and often dangerous environment
• Crafting is essential for creating tools, armor, and shelter
• Exploration of a seemingly familiar environment from a new perspective
• A compelling narrative that unfolds as you uncover the mystery of your shrinking

Key Features:

• A unique perspective on survival in a giant backyard
• Crafting using everyday objects in creative ways
• Engaging combat against oversized insects
• A compelling story with cooperative multiplayer

Why You’ll Love It:

Grounded offers a fresh and imaginative take on the survival genre. Exploring your backyard from an insect’s perspective is surprisingly thrilling, and the crafting is both intuitive and rewarding. Just try not to develop arachnophobia!

Stranded Deep: Island Survival, Oceanic Threats

Tropical Isolation and Ocean Hazards

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One

Imagine being the sole survivor of a plane crash, waking up on a deserted island in the vast Pacific. Stranded Deep throws you into this scenario, challenging you to survive the elements, wildlife, and the dangers of the ocean. You’ll need to master crafting tools, build shelters, and explore both the land and the surrounding waters to stay alive.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Focus on survival, requiring management of hunger, thirst, and health.
• Crafting is essential for creating tools, shelter, and transportation.
• Exploration of an open-world environment to find resources and discover new locations.

Key Features:

• Realistic survival mechanics in a tropical island setting.
• Craft a variety of tools, weapons, shelters, and rafts.
• Explore procedurally generated islands and underwater environments.
• Face dangers like sharks, snakes, and dehydration.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the resourcefulness and the sense of accomplishment in overcoming challenges in Subnautica, Stranded Deep offers a grounded survival experience in a beautiful, yet unforgiving, island setting.

Conan Exiles: Barbarian Survival, Mythical Beasts

Survive, Build, Dominate in the Hyborian Age

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Set in the brutal world of Conan the Barbarian, Conan Exiles throws you into a savage land where survival means more than just finding food and water. You’ll build settlements, craft weapons and armor, and even capture and enslave NPCs to build your power. It also features mythical creatures and a dark, gritty atmosphere.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Open-world exploration with a focus on discovering new areas and resources
• Crafting is essential for survival and building settlements
• A sense of danger and the need to defend yourself against hostile creatures

Key Features:

• Brutal open-world survival in the Conan the Barbarian universe
• Build sprawling settlements and fortresses
• Craft a wide range of weapons, armor, and tools
• Capture and enslave NPCs to expand your power
• Encounter mythical creatures and engage in epic battles

Why You’ll Love It:

If you’re looking for a more mature and brutal survival experience with a strong emphasis on building and conquest, Conan Exiles offers a vast world to explore and conquer.

ARK: Survival Evolved: Dinosaur Survival, Prehistoric Domination

Tame, Ride, Survive the Jurassic… and Beyond!

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Imagine Subnautica, but instead of alien fish, you’re trying to survive alongside dinosaurs. ARK: Survival Evolved throws you onto a mysterious island where you’ll need to hunt, craft, build shelters, and even tame and ride dinosaurs. It’s a wild and often chaotic survival adventure with a huge scope.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Open-world exploration of a diverse and dangerous environment
• Crafting is essential for survival, allowing you to build tools, weapons, and structures
• A sense of wonder and danger as you encounter prehistoric creatures
• The ability to tame and utilize the local fauna

Key Features:

• Survive in a world teeming with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures
• Tame and ride dinosaurs, using them for transportation and combat
• Build elaborate bases and defenses
• A massive open world to explore with diverse biomes
• Both single-player and large-scale multiplayer options

Why You’ll Love It:

If you’ve ever wanted to ride a T-Rex while wielding a laser rifle, ARK is the game for you. It’s an ambitious and often over-the-top survival experience with a unique prehistoric twist.

Empyrion – Galactic Survival: Space Survival, Planetary Exploration

From Planet to Galaxy: Survive Among the Stars

Platform Availability: PC

Taking the survival and crafting formula to space, Empyrion lets you build spaceships, explore planets, and survive in a vast galactic sandbox. While it features planetary surfaces to explore, it also has underwater environments on some of those planets, offering a taste of that Subnautica vibe in a broader sci-fi setting.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Open-world exploration across multiple planets
• Crafting is essential for building ships, bases, and survival gear
• Resource management is crucial for surviving in space and on alien planets
• Underwater exploration on planets with oceans

Key Features:

• Build and pilot your own spaceships and planetary vehicles
• Explore a vast galaxy with diverse planets and environments
• Engage in space and planetary combat
• Mine resources, build bases, and establish colonies
• A blend of survival, exploration, and space simulation

Why You’ll Love It:

If you’re looking to expand your survival adventures beyond a single planet, Empyrion offers a vast and ambitious galactic playground with a surprising amount of depth (sometimes literally!).

Astroneer: Interplanetary Exploration, Whimsical Survival

Colorful Cosmos, Creative Exploration

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

With a charming and colorful art style, Astroneer focuses on interplanetary exploration and resource gathering. You’ll hop between planets, reshape the terrain, build bases, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos. While not strictly underwater, it shares Subnautica’s sense of wonder and discovery in alien environments.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of alien planets with unique environments and resources
• Crafting is central to building bases, vehicles, and tools
• A sense of discovery as you uncover the secrets of the universe

Key Features:

• Unique terrain deformation mechanic for creative base building and exploration
• Charming and colorful art style
• Cooperative multiplayer for exploring with friends
• A focus on discovery and unlocking new technologies

Why You’ll Love It:

Astroneer offers a more relaxed and whimsical take on survival and exploration. It’s a great game for those who enjoy the joy of discovery and the satisfaction of building elaborate bases.

Valheim: Viking Survival, Mythical Realms

Survive, Build, Conquer in the Tenth Realm

Platform Availability: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Set in a procedurally generated world inspired by Norse mythology, Valheim sees you playing as a Viking warrior tasked with proving yourself to Odin. You’ll explore forests, mountains, and oceans, build longhouses, craft weapons and armor, and battle mythical creatures. While it has sailing and some underwater elements, its core is grounded in exploring and surviving on land.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Open-world exploration of diverse and often challenging environments
• Crafting is essential for building shelter, tools, and weapons
• A sense of progression as you explore new biomes and defeat powerful creatures

Key Features:

• Explore a vast procedurally generated world inspired by Norse mythology
• Build impressive Viking longhouses and settlements
• Craft a wide range of weapons, armor, and tools
• Battle mythical creatures and bosses
• Cooperative multiplayer for exploring and conquering together

Why You’ll Love It:

Valheim offers a compelling blend of survival, exploration, and Norse mythology. Building a Viking longhouse with friends and then setting sail to explore new islands is incredibly rewarding.

Planet Crafter: Planetary Survival, Underwater Expansion

Terraform a World, Dive into the Depths

Platform Availability: PC

Just like in the underwater section, Planet Crafter deserves a mention here for its core focus on planetary survival and crafting. The joy comes from transforming a barren alien world into a thriving ecosystem, and as mentioned before, this eventually includes creating underwater habitats.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Focus on survival, crafting, and base-building in an alien environment
• Exploration is key to finding resources and unlocking new technologies
• A strong sense of progression and accomplishment as you transform the environment

Key Features:

• Terraform an entire alien planet, changing the atmosphere, temperature, and biomass
• Craft a wide variety of machines and structures to aid in terraforming
• Explore the planet’s surface and, eventually, its underwater regions
• A satisfying sense of progression as you make the planet habitable

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the base-building and the feeling of making a hostile environment your own in Subnautica, Planet Crafter offers a similar satisfaction on a much grander scale.

The Long Dark: Wilderness Survival, Frozen Frontier

Survive the Canadian Wilderness in a Brutal Winter

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Trading tropical beaches and alien oceans for the harsh Canadian wilderness after a geomagnetic disaster, The Long Dark focuses on realistic survival in a frozen landscape. You’ll battle the elements, manage your hunger, thirst, and warmth, and face the dangers of wildlife in a quiet, post-apocalyptic world. While not underwater, it shares Subnautica’s atmospheric exploration and the feeling of being isolated in a dangerous environment.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Intense focus on survival, managing core needs in a challenging environment.
• Exploration of a vast and atmospheric open world.
• A sense of isolation and vulnerability against the elements and wildlife.
• A compelling narrative mode alongside the sandbox survival.

Key Features:

• Realistic survival mechanics focused on managing hunger, thirst, fatigue, and warmth.
• Explore a vast and beautifully desolate Canadian wilderness.
• Face dangers like wolves, bears, and blizzards.
• A compelling episodic story mode (“Wintermute”) alongside the open-world survival mode.
• A focus on atmosphere and immersion.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you appreciated the challenge of surviving against a harsh environment in Subnautica and enjoy a more grounded and realistic approach to survival, The Long Dark offers a deeply immersive and atmospheric experience in a frozen wilderness. It’s all about you against nature, and the stakes are high.

Games Like Subnautica – Adventure & Exploration with Underwater Elements: Dipping Below the Surface

While these games might not be solely focused on surviving the crushing depths, they offer fantastic adventures and exploration in vast worlds, often including captivating underwater environments to discover. If you enjoyed the sense of wonder and discovery in Subnautica, these titles will let you explore new horizons, both above and below the waves!

No Man’s Sky: Explore the Universe, Plunge into Alien Oceans

Infinite Worlds, Aquatic Adventures Await

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

No Man’s Sky is an epic space exploration game that lets you travel between countless planets. While much of the game takes place on land and in the skies, many planets feature oceans teeming with unique alien life and underwater structures to explore. It offers a vast sense of freedom and discovery, with underwater exploration being just one of the many exciting facets.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of alien planets, some of which feature significant underwater environments.
• Discovery of unique alien flora and fauna, both on land and in the sea.
• Crafting and base-building, which can extend to underwater habitats.

Key Features:

• Explore a near-infinite universe of procedurally generated planets.
• Discover diverse biomes, including underwater ecosystems.
• Craft tools, vehicles (including submarines!), and bases.
• Engage in trading, combat, and unraveling galactic mysteries.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you loved the feeling of discovering new alien worlds in Subnautica and wished you could take that exploration to a galactic scale, No Man’s Sky offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and wonder, with plenty of underwater surprises to find.

Outer Wilds: Unravel a Solar System’s Secrets, Dive into the Unknown

A Time-Loop Mystery Among the Stars (and Seas)

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Outer Wilds is a critically acclaimed open-world mystery game set in a solar system trapped in a time loop. While not primarily underwater, certain planets feature fascinating aquatic environments that hold crucial clues to the solar system’s secrets. The focus is on exploration, piecing together a compelling narrative, and experiencing a true sense of discovery.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of unique and intriguing alien environments, some of which are underwater.
• A strong sense of mystery and a compelling narrative that drives exploration.
• A focus on discovery and understanding the rules of an alien world.

Key Features:

• Explore a handcrafted solar system filled with unique planets.
• Unravel an ancient mystery by exploring ruins and piecing together clues.
• Experience a unique time-loop mechanic that adds urgency and intrigue.
• Discover fascinating underwater locations with their own secrets.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you were captivated by the mystery and the joy of uncovering the story in Subnautica, Outer Wilds offers a similarly rewarding experience in a unique solar system, with some truly memorable underwater moments.

Beyond Blue: Explore Earth’s Oceans, Witness Marine Marvels

Deep Sea Science and Exploration

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One

Beyond Blue shifts the focus to our own planet, casting you as a deep-sea explorer and scientist. This game emphasizes the beauty and wonder of Earth’s oceans, allowing you to document marine life, use advanced technology, and uncover the mysteries of our planet’s underwater ecosystems. While less about survival, it shares the immersive underwater exploration aspect.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Focus on underwater exploration and the beauty of marine environments.
• A sense of wonder and discovery as you encounter diverse marine life.
• A narrative that unfolds as you explore different underwater locations.

Key Features:

• Explore beautifully rendered real-world ocean environments.
• Interact with and learn about a variety of marine species.
• Use futuristic technology to explore the deep sea.
• A compelling narrative that highlights the importance of ocean conservation.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you were drawn to the stunning visuals and the fascinating marine life in Subnautica, Beyond Blue offers a more scientifically focused and grounded experience, showcasing the wonders of our own planet’s oceans.

Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion: Command Fleets, Explore Nebulas (with Oceans!)

Epic Space Strategy with Planetary Oceans

Platform Availability: PC

Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion is a real-time strategy game set in space, where you command vast fleets and expand your empire across star systems. While primarily focused on space combat and management, planets within these systems often have oceans that are visually stunning and add to the world-building, even if you don’t directly interact with them in a deep-sea exploration sense.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of alien worlds, some of which feature visually impressive oceans.
• A sense of scale and discovery as you expand your empire.
• A focus on strategic management and overcoming challenges in an alien environment.

Key Features:

• Epic real-time strategy gameplay in space.
• Command vast fleets and conquer star systems.
• Research technologies and manage your empire.
• Visually stunning planets, including those with detailed oceans.

Why You’ll Love It:

While not directly an underwater exploration game, Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion can appeal to those who enjoyed the sense of exploring alien worlds in Subnautica, but prefer a grander, strategic scale. Plus, those planetary oceans are beautiful!

Games Like Subnautica – Horror & Sci-Fi Exploration: Delving into the Deep Dark

If you enjoyed the unsettling atmosphere and moments of genuine fear in Subnautica, particularly in the deeper, more mysterious biomes, these games will take you on a journey into even darker and more thought-provoking territories. Prepare for chilling narratives, claustrophobic environments, and a healthy dose of the unknown!

Soma: Existential Terror in the Deep Underwater

Horror with a Philosophical Twist

Platform Availability: PC, PS4, Xbox One

From the creators of Amnesia, Soma swaps the alien oceans for a decaying underwater research facility, but keeps the chilling atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative. This isn’t just about jump scares; Soma delves into existential questions about identity, consciousness, and what it means to be human, all while you’re trying to survive the horrors lurking in the deep.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Significant portions set in claustrophobic and unsettling underwater environments.
• A strong sense of atmosphere and isolation.
• Exploration is key to uncovering the narrative and the mysteries of the setting.

Key Features:

• A deeply unsettling and thought-provoking sci-fi horror story.
• Claustrophobic and atmospheric underwater research facility to explore.
• Focus on puzzle-solving and evading terrifying creatures.
• Explores complex themes of identity and consciousness.

Why You’ll Love It: If you appreciated the moments of dread and the underlying mystery in Subnautica, Soma will amplify those feelings while delivering a compelling and unforgettable narrative that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Iron Lung: Claustrophobic Horror in a Blood Ocean

Submersible Terror in an Alien Abyss

Platform Availability: PC, Nintendo Switch

Iron Lung is a short but intensely atmospheric indie horror game that will leave you breathless (in more ways than one). You pilot a tiny, jury-rigged submarine through a blood ocean on a desolate alien moon. With limited visibility and unsettling sounds as your only companions, the game relies on building a sense of dread and claustrophobia as you venture into the unknown.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Primarily set within a claustrophobic submersible exploring an alien ocean.
• A strong emphasis on atmosphere and building tension.
• A sense of isolation and vulnerability in a hostile environment.

Key Features:

• Intense claustrophobic horror experience.
• Limited visibility and reliance on unsettling audio.
• A unique and disturbing alien blood ocean setting.
• A focus on psychological horror and dread.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you found the deep-sea exploration in Subnautica thrilling but also terrifying, Iron Lung dials up the claustrophobia and dread to eleven. It’s a short, sharp shock of atmospheric horror that will make you think twice about venturing into the abyss.

Nocturnal: Shadowy Survival on a Mysterious Island

Fire is Your Light Against the Darkness

Platform Availability: PC, Nintendo Switch

While not strictly underwater, Nocturnal shares a similar sense of isolation and environmental dread. Set on a mysterious island shrouded in a perpetual, dangerous fog, you must use fire to survive against shadowy creatures and explore the island’s secrets. The oppressive atmosphere and reliance on light create a tense and unsettling experience.

Similarities to Subnautica:

• Exploration of an isolated and dangerous environment.
• A strong sense of atmosphere and underlying mystery.
• Resource management is crucial for survival.

Key Features:

• Unique fire mechanic that is essential for survival and exploration.
• A mysterious island shrouded in a dangerous fog.
• Atmospheric and unsettling environment.
• Focus on resource management and strategic use of light.

Why You’ll Love It:

If you enjoyed the moments of vulnerability and the need to carefully manage resources while exploring the darker areas of Subnautica, Nocturnal offers a similar experience with a focus on light and shadow in a mysterious island setting.

Games Like Subnautica Honorable Mentions: Braving the Post-Apocalypse

While our main journey has taken us through watery depths and alien landscapes, the spirit of survival and the drive to overcome challenging environments extends to the post-apocalypse as well! These games might not have you building underwater bases or fending off space krakens, but they throw you into harsh, unforgiving worlds where scavenging, crafting, and sheer grit are your best friends. Here are a few more titles that deserve a shout-out for their unique takes on survival after the world has ended:

• Frostpunk: Think city-building meets survival, but set in a brutally cold, post-apocalyptic world. Every decision you make as the leader of your struggling colony can mean the difference between survival and utter extinction. Talk about high stakes!
• DayZ: If you’re looking for a survival experience with a heavy dose of player interaction (for better or worse!), DayZ throws you into a massive open-world overrun by zombies. But be warned, the other survivors can be just as dangerous as the undead.
• State of Decay 2: This one’s all about building a community and carving out a slice of survival in a zombie-infested world. You’ll be scavenging for resources, fortifying your base, and fighting off hordes of the undead, all while trying to keep your community alive and thriving.
• 7 Days to Die: Why settle for just surviving when you can also defend your hard-earned base against hordes of zombies every seven days? This game blends survival, crafting, and tower defense into a unique and often intense experience.
• Metro Exodus: For a more story-driven take on post-apocalyptic survival, Metro Exodus takes you on a journey across post-apocalyptic Russia. Expect exploration, tense combat, crafting, and a gripping narrative that unfolds as you travel.
• This War of Mine: This game offers a starkly different perspective on survival, putting you in the shoes of civilians trying to survive in a war-torn city. Resource management and making tough moral choices are at the forefront of this poignant experience.

These games showcase the breadth of the survival genre, proving that whether you’re battling alien creatures or human desperation, the core thrill of overcoming the odds in a hostile world is a powerful draw. They add a different flavor to the survival mix, proving that the apocalypse can come in many forms!

Frequently Asked Questions: Games Like Subnatica Edition

Wrapping Up Our List Of Games Like Subnautica

From the chilling depths of alien oceans to the sprawling landscapes of post-apocalyptic worlds, the games we’ve explored today showcase the incredible diversity and enduring appeal of the survival and exploration genres. Each title offers a unique journey, a chance to test our limits, and to discover the wonders (and sometimes horrors) hidden within uncharted territories. At Pixel Pop Corner, we celebrate that adventurous spirit, that drive to explore, and the shared passion that unites us as gamers. If you’re looking to bring a piece of that adventure home, or simply find a way to express your love for these incredible worlds, explore our collection of gaming merchandise. We’re always adding new items, so you’re sure to find something that resonates with your own epic gaming journeys.

And if you’re still looking for your next epic game to dive into, check out more game lists here >>