The former creative director of Unknown Worlds described their departure as "quite a shock"

Charlie Cleveland, a co-creator of Unknown Worlds, has departed from the company, sharing that the news was an unexpected surprise for him.

In a message posted on the Subnautica subreddit over the weekend, Cleveland indicated that Subnautica 2 has reached the stage where it can be launched in early access.

Cleveland had anticipated deciding the game's release timeline with his team; however, the decision now lies with Krafton.

Expressing his disappointment, he stated, "It's difficult to accept that I'm no longer part of the company I helped establish after so many years."

He continued, emphasizing the team's dedication: "No matter what unfolds for the founders, the team, or the game, our unwavering goal has always been to develop an exceptional game for an outstanding community."

On July 2, Krafton publicized adjustments in the leadership of the developer, naming Steve Papoutis as the new CEO in place of Ted Gill, while Max McGuire, the CTO and another co-founder, also stepped down.

Though no specifics were given for these leadership changes, Krafton mentioned efforts to keep the original Subnautica creators engaged in the development process of Subnautica 2.

Cleveland and McGuire started Unknown Worlds in 2001. In 2021, Krafton acquired the studio.