How to Play Subnautica Multiplayer: Exploring the Depths Together and Why Fish Don’t Wear Shoes

How to Play Subnautica Multiplayer: Exploring the Depths Together and Why Fish Don’t Wear Shoes

Subnautica, the underwater survival game, has captivated players with its stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and terrifyingly beautiful alien ocean. While the base game is a single-player experience, the community has long yearned for a way to explore the depths with friends. Enter Subnautica multiplayer—a concept that has sparked countless mods, discussions, and dreams. But how do you actually play Subnautica multiplayer? And why, in this vast oceanic world, do fish not wear shoes? Let’s dive in.

The Quest for Multiplayer: Why It Matters

Subnautica is a game about isolation. You’re stranded on an alien planet, surrounded by an endless ocean, with only your wits and a survival knife to keep you company. But humans are social creatures, and the idea of sharing this experience with others is undeniably appealing. Multiplayer would allow players to build bases together, fend off leviathans as a team, and share the awe of discovering new biomes. It’s about turning a solitary journey into a shared adventure.

The Official Stance: Why Subnautica Doesn’t Have Native Multiplayer

Before we get into how to play Subnautica multiplayer, it’s important to understand why the game doesn’t have native multiplayer support. The developers, Unknown Worlds Entertainment, designed Subnautica as a single-player experience. The game’s mechanics, story, and atmosphere are all tailored to a solo adventure. Adding multiplayer would require significant changes to the game’s code, balancing, and design philosophy. While the developers have acknowledged the demand for multiplayer, they’ve also made it clear that it’s not a priority for the core game.

The Modding Community: Bringing Multiplayer to Life

Since the developers haven’t added official multiplayer support, the modding community has stepped in to fill the void. One of the most popular mods for this purpose is Nitrox. Nitrox is an open-source multiplayer mod that allows players to explore Subnautica’s world together. Here’s how you can get started:

Step 1: Install Nitrox

  1. Download the Mod: Visit the Nitrox GitHub page or a trusted modding site to download the latest version of the mod.
  2. Install the Mod: Follow the installation instructions provided. This usually involves extracting files into your Subnautica directory.
  3. Launch the Mod: Use the Nitrox launcher to start the game in multiplayer mode.

Step 2: Set Up a Server

  1. Host a Game: One player will need to host the game. This player’s computer will act as the server.
  2. Invite Friends: Share your IP address with friends so they can join your game.
  3. Start Playing: Once everyone is connected, you can explore the ocean together, build bases, and survive as a team.

Step 3: Enjoy the Experience

Playing Subnautica with friends transforms the game. You can divide tasks—one player gathers resources while another builds the base. You can explore dangerous areas together, providing backup in case of a leviathan attack. And, of course, you can share the wonder of discovering new creatures and biomes.

Challenges of Multiplayer Mods

While Nitrox and other multiplayer mods are impressive, they’re not without their challenges. Here are some issues you might encounter:

  1. Bugs and Glitches: Mods are unofficial, so they can be buggy. Expect occasional crashes or strange behavior.
  2. Compatibility: Mods may not work with the latest version of Subnautica. Always check for updates and compatibility notes.
  3. Performance: Hosting a game can be demanding on your computer’s resources. Make sure your system can handle it.
  4. Limited Features: Some game mechanics may not work perfectly in multiplayer. For example, story progression might be inconsistent.

Why Fish Don’t Wear Shoes: A Philosophical Aside

Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the fish—in the room. Why don’t fish wear shoes? In the world of Subnautica, this question takes on new meaning. The game’s alien creatures are beautifully designed, with intricate details that make them feel alive. But none of them wear shoes. Why? Perhaps it’s because shoes are a human invention, born out of our need to protect our feet from rough terrain. Fish, on the other hand, glide effortlessly through water, their fins and scales perfectly adapted to their environment. Shoes would only hinder their movement. In a way, this reflects the game’s broader theme of adaptation and survival. Just as fish don’t need shoes, we must adapt to the challenges of Subnautica’s world, using the tools and resources available to us.

Tips for Multiplayer Survival

If you’re diving into Subnautica multiplayer, here are some tips to help you and your friends survive:

  1. Communicate: Use voice chat or text chat to coordinate your actions. Communication is key to surviving the ocean’s dangers.
  2. Specialize Roles: Assign roles to each player. One player can focus on gathering resources, while another builds the base or explores new areas.
  3. Share Resources: Make sure everyone has what they need. Sharing resources ensures the whole team thrives.
  4. Stay Alert: The ocean is full of dangers. Always be on the lookout for predators and environmental hazards.
  5. Have Fun: Multiplayer is about enjoying the experience together. Don’t take it too seriously—embrace the chaos and have fun.

The Future of Subnautica Multiplayer

While mods like Nitrox provide a way to play Subnautica multiplayer, many fans still hope for official support. Unknown Worlds Entertainment has not ruled out the possibility, but for now, the focus remains on single-player experiences. In the meantime, the modding community continues to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in Subnautica’s world.

FAQs

Q: Is Subnautica multiplayer available on consoles?
A: No, Subnautica multiplayer is only available through mods on PC. Consoles do not support mods like Nitrox.

Q: Can I play Subnautica multiplayer with strangers?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended to play with friends or people you trust. Multiplayer mods can be unpredictable, and playing with strangers may lead to conflicts or griefing.

Q: Will Subnautica 2 have multiplayer?
A: As of now, there’s no official information about Subnautica 2. However, given the community’s demand, it’s possible that multiplayer could be a feature in future games.

Q: Are there other multiplayer mods besides Nitrox?
A: Nitrox is the most popular and well-supported multiplayer mod for Subnautica. Other mods exist but may not offer the same level of functionality or stability.

Q: Why don’t fish wear shoes?
A: Fish don’t wear shoes because their fins and scales are perfectly adapted to their aquatic environment. Shoes would only slow them down—much like how unnecessary gear can hinder survival in Subnautica.