The "Buddy System" update, version 1.2, for Subnautica 2 is set to release tomorrow, August 19th, focusing on enhancing the multiplayer experience. This update introduces several features designed to make playing with friends more seamless and engaging.
Key among the new additions is proximity chat, which dynamically adjusts audio levels based on player distance. As friends move further away, their voices will sound quieter, and eventually adopt a radio-like signal quality that degrades with distance. The update also brings player emotes, currently offering options like thumbs up or down, raising fists, and clapping, which the developers suggest can be used sarcastically when a friend meets an unfortunate end.
Inventory management has also been streamlined. Players can now approach a friend and access a menu to directly transfer items, eliminating the need to drop and pick up shared goods. A new life-saving feature allows players to share oxygen with a downed friend within a short timeframe, potentially preventing their demise.
Beyond social features, the update includes cosmetic additions such as two new avatars and additional suit color options. For gameplay utility, a tracking tag has been added, which can be deployed in the environment or placed in portable lockers to help locate items. If carried upon death, the tag will also increase the range of the player's blackbox signal.
Several quality-of-life improvements are also part of the patch. HUD icons will dynamically shrink when not in the player's direct line of sight and enlarge when they are, improving visibility. Pinned recipes will see enhancements, and the base building tool will offer clearer feedback on placement validity. The update also includes a range of bug fixes.