Underwater Sequel’s Postponement Sparks Developer Turmoil and Jeopardizes $250M Bonus

  • Sofia Land
  • 14 Jul 2025
Underwater Sequel’s Postponement Sparks Developer Turmoil and Jeopardizes $250M Bonus

This article delves into recent events surrounding the delay of the anticipated underwater exploration sequel and its impact on the development team. The postponement not only shifts the launch timeline but also has significant repercussions on a promised monetary incentive.

There will be no Early Access debut for the sequel this year. Instead, Krafton – the parent organization of Unknown Worlds – has opted to push the launch to next year. On the surface, the change might appear inconsequential, but beneath the calm lies mounting frustration among the developers. Adding to the turmoil, the founding members were recently removed from key leadership roles, and the shift in schedule has effectively dashed hopes for a $250 million bonus intended for the staff.

The incentive was contingent on meeting certain revenue milestones by year’s end. With the delay As it stands, it is exceedingly unlikely that these… benchmarks will be achieved, jeopardizing the payout for nearly 100 team members. While former leadership asserts indicating that the game was primed for its Early Access debut, Krafton defends the postponement as necessary for expanding the content offering.

Krafton maintains that the delay is unrelated to any contractual bonus stipulations. Nonetheless, critics – including ardent supporters and unnamed sources – remain unconvinced. Online discussions have sparked significant discontent with many describing the decision as one of the most reprehensible tactics seen, and fervent fans are calling for the team to receive the full $250 million incentive.

Key points of the situation include:

  • The planned Early Access launch has been postponed to next year.
  • The delay undermines a bonus tied to revenue targets.
  • Former leadership claims the game was prepared, while additional content justifications have been cited.
  • Online sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, with public outcry over the decision.

The unfolding controversy raises the question: What are your thoughts on this latest development, which many view as emblematic of unchecked corporate priorities?