If you've never played the original Subnautica — or you've been looking for an excuse to jump back into the deep — now is the perfect time. Subnautica is free to play this Easter weekend, and the entire franchise is seeing major discounts across Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox.

Subnautica Free Weekend

The original Subnautica is available to play for free during a limited-time free weekend event. Here are the timings:

  • Steam: Free from April 2 (10 PM PT) through Monday, April 6 (9:59 AM PT)
  • Xbox (Free Play Days): Available from April 9 through April 12

Any progress you make during the free weekend will carry over to the full version if you decide to purchase the game later, so you can safely start exploring without fear of losing your save.

Franchise-Wide Discounts

Beyond the free weekend, both Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero are available at significant discounts:

  • Steam: Up to 75% off from April 2 to April 9
  • Epic Games Store: The same 75% discount runs from March 31 through April 7
  • Xbox: Up to 50% off between April 2 and April 15

Perfect Timing Before Subnautica 2

The promotion arrives at a strategic moment. With Subnautica 2 set to enter Early Access in May 2026, this is an ideal opportunity for newcomers to experience the series before diving into the sequel — and for returning fans to revisit the planet 4546B one more time.

If you're jumping in for the first time, here's a recommended order:

  • Subnautica (2018) — The original award-winning underwater survival experience
  • Subnautica: Below Zero (2021) — The standalone expansion set on a frozen region of 4546B
  • Subnautica 2 (Early Access May 2026) — The upcoming sequel on an all-new alien ocean world with up to 4-player co-op

What Makes Subnautica Special

For the uninitiated, Subnautica is an underwater survival adventure set on an alien ocean planet. Players must gather resources, build bases and vehicles, and uncover the secrets of the world — all while surviving the creatures that lurk in its depths. The series is widely praised for its atmosphere, sense of discovery, and unique blend of wonder and tension.

Whether you're a veteran of 4546B or a complete newcomer, the free weekend and franchise discount are the perfect way to prepare for Subnautica 2's Early Access launch in May. Don't miss your chance to dive in before the offer ends.