Subnautica 2: 'Buddy System' Update Adds Proximity Voice Chat

Unknown Worlds has released the 1.2 "Buddy System" update for Subnautica 2, bringing proximity voice chat and cooperative features to the aquatic survival sequel. It turns out that screaming into the dark is much more therapeutic when your crew can actually hear you doing it.

According to the developer, the update focuses heavily on player feedback regarding the game's cooperative multiplayer suite. In a genre where communication often means the difference between surviving a leviathan and becoming its afternoon snack, adding actual voice lines is a logical step up from frantically flashing a diving light at each other.

The details

• Update version: 1.2 ("Buddy System")
• Key features: Proximity voice chat, cooperative emotes, simplified resource trading
• Target audience: Cooperative players looking for easier communication

Beyond the voice chat, the update streamlines the logistics of sharing underwater chores. Players can now trade gathered resources with less friction, meaning you no longer have to drop copper ore on the ocean floor like a suspicious briefcase exchange. The addition of interactive emotes also gives divers a way to express solidarity—or sheer panic—without saying a word.

Whether proximity chat actually helps coordinate deep-sea expeditions or just ensures you hear your partner's final, garbled gasp as they get dragged into the abyss remains to be seen.