Contrary to what some people say in their reviews, I genuinely think this sequel is a really good game—not just a failed DLC made into a separate title.

Atmosphere:
Yes, the atmosphere might feel weaker compared to the original. It’s not as terrifying or thalassophobic, and the map isn’t an endless ocean full of leviathans. However, this smaller map is much more concentrated, which I actually appreciate. The environment is beautiful and astonishing. Some creatures are pretty cute, like the monkeys and penguins, while others remain terrifying, like the Shadow Leviathan. That said, the shrimp creature feels like a downgrade compared to the Reaper Leviathan from the first game.

Story:
Personally, the story hooked me more than the original Subnautica. Instead of spending the entire game searching for a cure, the interactions and dialogues with Al-An really stood out. The main character is no longer a silent protagonist like Gordon Freeman, which adds more personality. The sister’s storyline feels a bit unfinished, though, which is a drawback.

Gameplay:
Gameplay-wise, it’s pretty similar to the original—plenty of resources to gather and craft. I especially liked exploring the new, tight biomes. The Seatruck felt better to me than the Seamoth, while the Prawn Suit is still as powerful and useful as in the original. The land areas are far more explorable than before, though exploring can get a bit boring after a while.

Conclusion:
Overall, this game is similar to the first one but with a less dark and horrifying atmosphere. It offers more beautiful landscapes and a more engaging story. I also really enjoyed the chilly, cold winter vibes that make the experience unique.
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