Krafton to acquire Subnautica studio Unknown Worlds
Studio will remain independent under new ownership, new project slated for 2022
PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds owner Krafton is set to acquire Unknown Worlds, the studio behind Subnautica for an undisclosed amount.
The studio will continue to function as an independent developer, and its current staff and leadership structure will remain the same.
"Unknown Worlds are incredibly skilled and passionate developers with an unparalleled gift for creativity and a proven track record of building successful player-driven worlds." said Krafton CEO CH Kim. "Krafton will spare no effort in helping them. Not only do they enhance our development capabilities, but we share a goal of creating unique experiences for global audiences."
Unknown Worlds CEO Charlie Cleveland added: "It was immediately apparent how closely Unknown Worlds and Krafton are aligned in the way we think about games and game development.
"Subnautica and PUBG both started humbly and evolved successfully through constant iteration and feedback. We want to bring new games to the world stage - and with KRAFTON, we're a big step closer. We're truly looking forward to our future together."
Unknown Worlds will continue to make ongoing updates for the Subnautica franchise, as well as work on a new project, slated to launch into early access in 2022.
The company will become Krafton's sixth independent studio, joining PUBG Studios, Striking Distance, Bluehole, RisingWings and Dreamotion.
Krafton also acquired HelloBot chat platform creator Thingsflow earlier this year.
Last month, PUBG creator Brendan Greene left Krafton to form a new studio, PlayerUnknown Productions.