Are There Any Friendly Leviathans in Subnautica?
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The vast, alien oceans of Subnautica are home to a diverse array of creatures, from the smallest reef-dwellers to colossal leviathans. While many of these leviathans inspire fear with their immense size and predatory nature, the question remains: are there any truly friendly leviathans in the depths? The answer, thankfully, is yes. While “friendly” might be a strong word, a few leviathan-class creatures display docile behavior and pose no direct threat to the player, offering a welcome respite from the game’s more aggressive inhabitants.
Friendly Giants of the Deep
In both Subnautica and its sequel, Subnautica: Below Zero, certain leviathans can be observed exhibiting remarkably peaceful behavior. The most notable examples include:
The Reefback Leviathan
This leviathan is arguably the most commonly encountered of its class and is entirely passive. Reefbacks are large, slow-moving creatures that sport vibrant, coral-like growth on their backs. They serve as mobile ecosystems, with smaller fish and plant life thriving on their surfaces. They are harmless and will not react to the player’s presence, making them a beautiful sight to behold. You’ll often see them traveling in groups, further emphasizing their peaceful nature.
The Glow Whale
Introduced in Subnautica: Below Zero, the Glow Whale is the largest and most demonstrably friendly leviathan encountered in the game. These massive creatures are not only peaceful but also seem genuinely curious about the player, sometimes even swimming close to investigate. The glow whale’s luminescent body is a magnificent sight, and its gentle behavior makes it a joy to witness in the freezing depths. They actively seek interactions and are known for their calm and inquisitive nature.
The Ventgarden
Also featured in Subnautica: Below Zero, the Ventgarden is another unique leviathan that is considered very friendly, especially in its adult form. These creatures are mobile ecosystems, similar to the Reefback, but they possess a more plant-like appearance. While the smaller, juvenile Ventgardens can be a bit more skittish, adult Ventgardens are entirely docile and are often found in serene areas. They do not react to the player and are content to swim peacefully, providing a sense of tranquility amid the more threatening wildlife.
Understanding Leviathan Behavior
It is crucial to understand that the leviathans in Subnautica, regardless of their hostility, are not simply monsters. They are part of a larger ecosystem, each with its own role and behaviors. The friendly leviathans are often slow-moving filter feeders, relying on their size and passive nature for survival. This contrasts sharply with the more aggressive leviathans that are often top-tier predators, hunting for smaller prey.
The distinction between friendly and hostile leviathans adds depth to the game’s world, forcing players to adapt their behavior and approach to different creatures. It also emphasizes the importance of observing and understanding the environment to ensure survival.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about leviathans in Subnautica, providing additional information and context:
1. What is the most dangerous leviathan in Subnautica?
The Sea Dragon Leviathan is considered the most dangerous, capable of both physical attacks and launching magma projectiles. Its aggressive behavior and high damage output make it the most formidable leviathan in the game.
2. Can leviathans destroy my base in Subnautica?
Yes, leviathans can damage your base if they get too close. While they don’t actively seek out bases for destruction, their massive size can cause structural damage and leaks, especially if they clip inside. They will purposefully attack a base if they see the player entering it.
3. How do I avoid getting attacked by a Reaper Leviathan?
Avoid the areas they patrol, which include the Crash Zone, the front of the Aurora, the Mountains, and Dunes. If one is pursuing you, use decoys from your Cyclops or try to outmaneuver it in a smaller vehicle, such as the Seamoth.
4. What is the rarest leviathan in Subnautica?
The Sea Dragon Leviathan is considered one of the rarest, with only three known to exist in the game. Its location deep within the volcanic areas makes it less commonly encountered by players.
5. Can you kill leviathans in Subnautica?
Yes, leviathans can be killed, though it’s a difficult task. This typically involves using high-powered weapons, such as the Prawn Suit’s drill arm or torpedoes, and requires strategy and patience.
6. What happens when you kill a Reaper Leviathan?
Other than providing bragging rights and an opportunity to scan them, killing a Reaper Leviathan provides no in-game rewards. The main intent is for players to avoid them rather than fight them.
7. Can a Seamoth outrun a Ghost Leviathan?
It depends on the distance. If the Ghost Leviathan is close behind you, escaping is unlikely. However, if you have a good head start and they are pursuing you from maximum detection distance, you have a better chance of escaping.
8. Can the Ghost Leviathan damage the Cyclops?
Yes, Ghost Leviathans can damage the Cyclops and other vehicles, though their attacks are not as instantly destructive as those of the Sea Dragon Leviathan.
9. What is the scariest creature in Subnautica: Below Zero?
The Shadow Leviathan is widely regarded as the scariest creature in Subnautica: Below Zero, due to its size, speed, and unpredictable attack pattern.
10. What is the Void Leviathan?
The Void Optic Leviathan is the deadliest known leviathan-class organism on 4546B and inhabits the void areas of the game. It is largely shrouded in mystery but considered extremely dangerous.
11. Are Reefback Leviathans immune to the Kharaa bacterium?
No, the Reefback Leviathan is not immune to the Kharaa bacterium. It was the Sea Emperor Leviathan that possessed immunity and was researched by the Precursors for a possible cure.
12. Which leviathan is near the Aurora?
Reaper Leviathans are commonly found near the Aurora, patrolling the Crash Zone. They are typically the first hostile leviathans players encounter.
13. Can a Reaper Leviathan destroy a Seamoth?
Yes, Reaper Leviathans can grab the Seamoth and shake it, causing damage. However, using the Seamoth’s defense system will cause them to release the vehicle immediately.
14. Can you feed a Peeper to a Reaper Leviathan?
Yes, in previous versions of the game, Reaper Leviathans would eat one Peeper every time the player had peepers in their inventory. The range of food has been changed over time. Now most creatures will feed on a player if they are in the range.
15. What are the safest biomes to explore in Subnautica?
Generally, the Safe Shallows, Grassy Plateaus, and Kelp Forest are considered the safest biomes, with fewer hostile creatures compared to areas like the Dunes or the Lost River. However, always be cautious, as dangers can lurk even in seemingly peaceful areas.
Conclusion
While the leviathans of Subnautica are often associated with fear and danger, the presence of friendly leviathans like the Reefback, Glow Whale, and Ventgarden adds a welcome element of wonder and tranquility to the game. These gentle giants enrich the underwater world and remind players that not every large creature is a threat. Understanding the nuances of leviathan behavior is crucial for survival and appreciation of the rich ecosystem of planet 4546B.