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Subnautica 2 Beginner 5 min read

How to host a Subnautica 2 server in 2026

General guide to host a Subnautica 2 dedicated server in Early Access: platforms, hosting options, 4-player co-op and PC/Xbox crossplay confirmed by Unknown Worlds.

How to host a Subnautica 2 server in 2026

How to host a Subnautica 2 server in 2026

⚠️ Important update — No Subnautica 2 dedicated server: contrary to initial expectations, Unknown Worlds did not ship any dedicated server tool for the May 14, 2026 Early Access. Multiplayer runs only in peer-to-peer via Epic Online Services: the session is hosted on one player’s machine (4 players max). No dedicated Subnautica 2 hosting offer is technically possible today. This tutorial is kept for reference. See the community request for dedicated servers.

Subnautica 2 launches in Early Access on May 14, 2026 and introduces for the first time in the series a native 4-player co-op with an official dedicated server. This guide sums up the options to host your server.

⚠️ Early Access tutorial: Detailed configuration (exact parameters, ports) will be published by Unknown Worlds on May 14. This guide covers confirmed facts.


🎯 What’s confirmed

ItemValue
DeveloperUnknown Worlds Entertainment
EA releaseMay 14, 2026, 08:00 PDT
EA price$29.99 (one purchase, updates included through v1.0)
EA platformsSteam, Epic, Xbox Series X
Co-op4 players maximum
CrossplayPC ↔ Xbox confirmed
Dedicated server App ID2327760

📋 Step 1: Pick your hosting mode

Three options based on your need:

  • Dedicated hosting (recommended): €8-25/month, panel + anti-DDoS + support
  • Linux VPS + SteamCMD: €5-15/month, flexible but manual config
  • Self-hosting: free but PC on 24/7 + public IP exposed

💡 Tip: For a community beyond 2-3 friends, dedicated hosting is the simplest and most reliable.


⚙️ Step 2: Check hardware requirements

For a 4-player server:

ComponentIndicative
OSLinux Ubuntu 22.04 or Windows Server
CPU2-4 cores ≥ 3.5 GHz (Unity = single-thread)
RAM4-8 GB
Storage15-30 GB SSD/NVMe
Bandwidth50 Mbps symmetric min

🔧 Step 3: Prepare your timing

Subnautica 2 launches soon. Recommended calendar:

  • Before May 14: pick host or prepare VPS, read guides
  • Day 0 (May 14): install server via SteamCMD app_update 2327760
  • Day 0+: test with friends, first backup
  • Week 2+: detailed config per Unknown Worlds official docs

✅ Step 4: PC ↔ Xbox crossplay

At launch, Subnautica 2 supports crossplay between:

  • ✅ PC Steam / Epic / Game Pass PC
  • ✅ Xbox Series X / Series S / Game Pass console
  • ❌ PS5 and Switch: not before v1.0

No special server-side config — it’s native.


🚨 Troubleshooting

My host doesn’t offer Subnautica 2 yet

Patience until May 14. Serious hosts add the template within launch day. If nothing 1 week post-launch, bad sign.

Do I need to buy the game to host?

No for the dedicated server (App ID 2327760 free via SteamCMD anonymous). Yes to connect (each player must own Subnautica 2).

Which ports to open?

To confirm officially on May 14. Detailed ports + firewall tutorials post-launch.


🔗 Useful resources


✨ Wrap-up

Subnautica 2 marks a turning point for the series with native 4-player co-op and an official dedicated server. Prepare your hosting before May 14 and enjoy launch stress-free.

Need help? Our team is available for free on Discord.

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