We've returned to the depths of Planet 4546B in one of its colder regions to pick up a different story to that of the original Subnautica. This time unraveling multiple mysteries, and all while building some pretty cool stuff in the survival process, through plundering its rich and resource-diverse depths.

It also has penglings.

This franchise-in-waiting is an absolute gem, and if the freshly-launched sequel is any indication of the imagination and creativity permeating the brain trust at Unknown Worlds, we can't wait to see what's next.

Here's a snippet:

How both games have been structured to feed discovery is to be applauded. Collectionist types or lore fiends will lap up the world-building that has invaded your PDA across two adventures, where scanning becomes a sickness and seeking information on why certain minerals only live in certain biomes, depths or hollows is more important than helping an alien reconnect to its hive mind. In fact, one of the more celebrated expansions in this sequel is the deeper crossover of world ingredients. So rather than just eating a plant to sustain nutrition and hydration in singular form, for example, now you can make a salad from two ingredients that is doubly rewarding.

It’s a small example, but a huge thing that reflects the subtle, yet massive shift in thinking from Unknown Worlds where the collection of game resources is concerned.

Click here for our in-depth Subnautica: Below Zero review.