Subnautica: Below Zero Reviews
Subnautica: Below Zero makes you feel like arctic explorers as you traverse the icy climate of planet 4546B. If you are able to stick with it and continue to move forward to find ways to dive deeper, Below Zero has plenty of discoveries to uncover.
Subnautica: Below Zero is a very fun survival game. In my time, I had had little happen in the way of bugs and some minor inconveniences in resource gathering. The story can sometimes feel odds and ends with the way its presented and the gameplay mechanics, and I admittedly had more fun building facilities and exploring Planet 4546b over finding out what happened to Robin’s sister. Though for the story-curious, hardcore maniac, or creative, the game offers modes for everyone. I could not say if this is better than the first Subnautica, but it is certainly a strong game in its own right.
Subnautica: Below Zero is a great follow-up, improving on the formula. While this sequel won't be for everyone, the moment-to-moment survival mechanics are excellent and exploring each biome is a ton of fun.
In all honesty, yes, Subnautica: Below Zero is just more Subnautica, but don’t think of that as a bad thing. It might not have that many new features when compared to its predecessor, but considering how excellent the original game was, having yet another well-designed Subnautica, with a brand new map to explore and challenges to overcome, will always be worth celebrating.
Subnautica: Below Zero is easily one of the best survival games I have played on Switch. Whilst a small initial barrier to entry, it’s hard not to get captivated by the world above and below the water. If you haven’t been keen on survival games before this may not turn your head again. But if you’re looking for an underwater adventure like no other Below Zero is well worth going out in the cold for.
The mere fact of not having gone further in its playable base compared to the previous one is the only thing that retains this title. A fantastic sequel that fans of the original will adore that deepens -pun intended- the virtues of its predecessor and helps quench a thirst for adventures of solitary exploration in hostile and mysterious environments.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Enhancing many aspects of its predecessor, Subnautica: Below Zero is a formidable survival experience with the well-known layers of sensation that made Unknown Worlds Entertainment's previous title relevant in this challenging genre. A mandatory choice for those who enjoy adventure, mystery, tension and challenge.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Subnautica: Below Zero offers an amazing world of discoveries through a mysteriously captivating campaign to uncover. Every moment exploring is rewarded through stunning environments, and I wanted to continue my adventure if only to see a little more. There are some moments of confusion through resource management, but once you dive in, Subnautica: Below Zero won’t have you coming up for air any time soon.
Subnautica: Below Zero proposes an experience very similar to the first game. It doesn't bring a lot of new elements which will probably dissapoint a few players. However, the fun factor is still very present.
Review in French | Read full review
Overall, if you’re into exploration and survival games where you can spend hours and hours just collecting materials to create equipment and other items, then I recommend Subnautica Below Zero. It has just the right balance of everything you can hope for in a survival game. It is a great addition to the series and will hopefully pave the way for many games in the future.
Subnautica: Below Zero’s adventure is equal parts survival sim and sci-fi thriller, and should you decide to take the plunge into its icy depths, you’re sure to find one of the most robust and satisfying survival titles on the eShop.
Subnautica: Below Zero offers a more immediate, accessible and complete gaming experience compared to the first chapter of the saga, providing a more impactful and suitable title for those who do not like too dispersive survival games. To succeed in this, however, many aspects of the original title have been simplified, resulting in a less meaty and varied game. A different experience then, but worth the effort.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Fortunately, there are a few different options at the game's start menu that make the experience somewhat customizable, like removing the hunger and thirst parameters. Ultimately, there is much to discover both below and above the waterline, including aliens, mysterious messages, and even a mech that can walk on the ocean floor. While those looking out for signposting and clear directions should probably keep their feet dry, those who enjoy a more laid-back, albeit grindy, experience can safely dip their toes in these waters.
The follow-up to Subnautica offers more of the same intriguing mix of gorgeous underwater exploration, survival and crafting, and fascinating alien intrigue.
This is a game where there’s not a radio tower, time trial or lengthy side-quest to be seen, and with a few exceptions, it’s down to you to make your own fun. And you know what? It’s an absolute joy to just get out there and mess around, embracing the thrill of discovery. It manages to be fresh, even if you’ve played the original. Subnautica: Below Zero is the most refreshing, engaging sandbox game I’ve played in ages and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t dive right in.
In many ways survival games represent the ultimate conclusion of the open-world ethos - the experience is entirely about moving around a large space and scouring it for "loot", while largely doing away with elements like storytelling, character and any purpose beyond existing with that big space. In the interest of being entirely frank, this kind of thing just isn't for me, but with that being said I do think that Subnautica: Below Zero is one of the better examples of it in motion. It's not perfect, and the game is so weighted towards aesthetics that if you've got an alternative to the Switch you're better off seeing the full, uncompromised creative vision on that platform instead. However, this Switch port is still more than adequate, especially for those that want to craft, build, mine and craft some more while on the go.
Subnautica Below Zero is the perfect reincarnation of a first title that still had a lot to offer the player, although this can finally take its turn on if presented as a completely independent delivery but which, in the end, fulfills its task and offers a great gaming experience.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Subnautica: Below Zero is a good survival game, even if the new frozen land areas are not fun to explore and the story has several pacing issues. Fortunately, the solid progression system and mastery of the sea makes it easy to recommend for fans of the original.
Like its predecessor, Subnautica: Below Zero entertains in each of its little details. The story is able to arouse your curiosity and the infinity of possibilities makes you want to play more and more, be it building, exploring or investigating. Hours in front of the TV are guaranteed.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Try to survive again, this time in cold waters with icy islands. It is not as good as the first game, however still amusing.
Review in Slovak | Read full review