Is Subnautica on Earth? Unraveling the Mysteries of Planet 4546B
The simple answer is no, Subnautica is not set on Earth. The captivating underwater survival adventure unfolds on a distant, alien world known as Planet 4546B. This ocean planet, located in the outer reaches of the Ariadne Arm within the Galaxy of Andromeda, is the backdrop for the game’s immersive experience. While the game might evoke familiar feelings with its focus on survival, exploration, and the mysteries of the deep, it’s crucial to understand that the setting is decidedly extraterrestrial.
Exploring Planet 4546B
The Alien Setting
Planet 4546B is a water world – a planet predominantly covered by vast oceans. This characteristic is pivotal to the gameplay of Subnautica. Players, as the sole survivor Ryley Robinson of the crashed spacecraft Aurora, must navigate this alien aquatic environment. The game is set in the late 22nd century when humanity has begun to colonize other planets.
The planet itself orbits the star 4546. The name “4546B” indicates that it was the first planet discovered orbiting this star. The game features three distinct ecosystems: the crater, the arctic region, and the void. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging, from the shallows to the deepest trenches.
Real-World Inspiration?
Interestingly, Planet 4546B may be inspired by the real-life exoplanet Gliese 1214b. Both planets share characteristics of being a “water world”, which has led to speculation about their connection. However, Subnautica’s Planet 4546B is primarily a creation of the game developers at Unknown Worlds Entertainment and does not represent a scientifically accurate recreation of Gliese 1214b.
Unique Characteristics
- Day-Night Cycle: The planet has a day-night cycle, but it’s much shorter than that on Earth. An ingame day lasts 20 minutes of real-time, with 15 minutes of daylight and 5 minutes of night.
- Quarantine: Planet 4546B is under a mysterious quarantine, which is a major plot element of the game. This quarantine must be lifted as part of the player’s mission to escape.
- Dead Zone: The map has a boundary, a “dead zone”, where the seabed disappears, and dangerous Ghost Leviathans lurk. While seemingly infinite, players are eventually teleported back to the safe shallows.
Frequently Asked Questions about Subnautica’s Setting
Is Subnautica set on a real planet?
No, Subnautica is not set on a real planet. While it may draw some inspiration from the exoplanet Gliese 1214b, it’s a fictional world designed by the game developers.
Are Subnautica 1 and 2 (Below Zero) on the same planet?
Yes, both Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero are set on Planet 4546B. Below Zero takes place a year or two after the events of the original game.
What year does Subnautica take place?
Subnautica is set in the late 22nd century, a period when humanity is actively colonizing planets in space.
Who shot down the Aurora in Subnautica?
The Aurora was not shot down by an enemy vessel. It was struck by an energy pulse from the Quarantine Enforcement Platform during a gravity slingshot maneuver around Planet 4546B, causing catastrophic damage.
How long is a day on 4546B?
A day on Planet 4546B lasts 20 minutes of real time.
Is the map in Subnautica infinite?
No, the map in Subnautica is not infinite. It has a boundary known as the Dead Zone, but players are eventually teleported back to the starting area if they venture too far.
What is the main goal in Subnautica?
The main goal in Subnautica is to escape Planet 4546B and return to civilization. To do this, players must lift the quarantine on the planet and build a means of departure.
What kind of game is Subnautica? Horror or Survival?
Subnautica is primarily a survival action-adventure game, although it includes elements that can create scary experiences due to its vast and alien underwater environment. It is not strictly a horror game.
What is the Kharaa bacterium in Subnautica?
The Kharaa bacterium is a disease-causing pathogen that is a significant plot element in the game. It is eventually cured by Enzyme 42, which is produced by the Sea Emperor Leviathan.
Does Subnautica have a definitive ending?
Yes, Subnautica has a definitive ending. Players who complete the main story can choose to leave the planet.
What does the “B” mean in 4546B?
The “B” in 4546B means that it was the first planet discovered orbiting around the star 4546.
How deep can you go in Subnautica?
While there used to be a bottom, it has been removed for performance reasons. The current “deepest” point is 8192 meters, but going that deep teleports you back to the surface.
How long does it take to beat Subnautica?
Focusing on the main objectives, it takes about 30 hours to beat Subnautica. Completionists can expect to spend around 53.5 hours to achieve 100% completion.
How long after the original game does Below Zero occur?
Subnautica: Below Zero is set approximately two years after the original Subnautica.
Who survived the Aurora crash in Subnautica?
The player character, Ryley Robinson, is the only known survivor of the Aurora crash. Other crew members ejected in escape pods, but none were confirmed to have survived.
Conclusion
Subnautica’s immersive experience is deeply intertwined with its alien setting. Planet 4546B is a unique creation, designed to challenge players and create a sense of wonder. While some of its aspects might draw inspiration from real exoplanets, it remains firmly within the realm of science fiction, making it a captivating and memorable adventure. The game’s ability to blend survival, exploration, and a compelling narrative makes it a standout in the genre and a must-play for anyone fascinated by the mysteries of alien worlds, even if they aren’t real.