So many upgrades, so little time. Subnautica 2 throws a LOT of options at you, and wasting resources on the wrong upgrades early can seriously slow your progress. After hours of testing and multiple playthroughs, here's our definitive upgrade priority guide. We're breaking it down by game phase so you always know what's worth your precious materials.
Upgrade Tier List
Before we dive into the details, here's the quick-reference tier list:
Phase 1: Early Game (First 30 Minutes)
Priority #1: Oxygen Tank
Yeah, it's obvious, but seriously - get that second oxygen tank ASAP. Your 45-unit capacity won't cut it once you start exploring. This is the upgrade that unlocks the rest of the game for you.
Oxygen Tank Upgrade
- Cost: 1 Titanium, 1 Glass
- Unlocks: Extended dive time (+15 units)
- Time Saved: Hours of frustrating surface trips
Priority #2: Knife + Scanner
The Survival Knife helps you harvest faster, and the Scanner unlocks everything else on this list. Scan everything. I mean everything.
Priority #3: Storage Expansion
Nothing kills momentum like a full inventory. Grab a Storage Locker or two and start organizing.
Phase 2: Early-Mid Game (30 min - 2 hours)
Priority #1: Vehicle Module Bay
If you're getting a Seamoth (and you should be), the module bay is essential. Storage expansion + hull reinforcement = longer, safer expeditions.
Priority #2: Reinforced Suit
That damage resistance isn't just nice - it's campaign-defining. You'll actually be able to survive close calls instead of respawning and crying.
Priority #3: Propulsion Cannon
Base building becomes 10x easier. Plus, you can yeet aggressive creatures away from you. Highly satisfying.
Phase 3: Mid Game (2-5 hours)
Priority #1: Prawn Suit
The Prawn Suit is a game-changer for resource gathering. That drill arm? Absolute godsend for mineral extraction. Build one ASAP.
Priority #2: Cyclops (or Forward Base)
Full disclosure - the Cyclops is expensive. But a small forward base with an interior can serve the same purpose: mobile oxygen station and storage.
Priority #3: Thermal Power Module
For those deep bases near thermal vents, thermal generators are essential. Solar starts to struggle below 200m.
Phase 4: Late Game (5+ hours)
Priority #1: Nuclear Reactor
Once you have Uranium access, nuclear power is the ultimate endgame power solution. Basically infinite energy.
Priority #2: Maximum Vehicle Upgrades
Torpedo bays, sonar, shield generators - by this point you've got the resources to make your vehicles absolute monsters.
Priority #3: Dedication to Aesthetics
Now you can finally build that dream base you've been planning. No more functional-only builds!
Quick Upgrade Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best strategy for beginners?
Start by gathering basic resources near your escape pod, build a small base quickly, and always carry extra oxygen tanks when exploring. Check our Beginner's Guide for detailed tips.
How do I find rare materials?
Rare materials like Kyanite, Lithium, and Magnetite are found at greater depths. Use our Biome Locations Guide to plan your expeditions.
What's the most important upgrade to get first?
We recommend prioritizing oxygen tank upgrades first, followed by reinforced suit for damage resistance. See our Best Upgrade Path Guide for optimal progression.
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