Base building in Subnautica 2 is more flexible than the original — and also more punishing. Breakflip called it "a nightmare" in their review. Kotaku said it "leaves you entirely out in the cold." Here's how to make it work.
1. "My base keeps flooding"
Every module costs hull integrity. Rooms subtract. Windows subtract more at depth. If integrity drops below zero, the base floods. Place 2-3 foundations before adding rooms. Foundations add +2 to +3 integrity each. Reinforcement panels add +7.
2. "Invalid Terrain" for no reason
Rotate the piece, move 3-4m away, or build a foundation first as an anchor. If all else fails, save and reload — sometimes it's just a bug.
3. "Solar dies at night"
Build near a jetstream current for 24/7 hydroelectric power. Run power transmitters back to your base. Keep 2-3 solar panels as daytime backup.
4. "Sculptural system doesn't snap"
Use foundations as anchor points. Start with standard compartments before trying free-form pieces. Each co-op player needs their own Habitat Builder.
5. "What do I build first?"
Corridor → Hatch → Foundations × 3 → Solar × 2 → Fabricator → Storage × 3 → Scanner Room. Build at 100-200m depth.
6. "Built too deep — everything floods instantly"
Depth multiplies integrity costs (up to 4x at 3000m). Keep your first base in the shallows. Only build deep after unlocking reinforcements.
7. "Can I move my base?"
Demolishing refunds 100% of materials. Mark your new location with a beacon first, build foundations, then move materials over.
8. "How does co-op base building work?"
Each player needs their own Habitat Builder. Progression is shared. One person should own the core structure while the other decorates.
9. "No storage space"
Build a dedicated storage room with wall lockers. Use the Tadpole's Portable Locker (+15 slots). Label everything.
10. "Leviathan attacking my base"
Keep integrity 10+ above zero. Install bulkheads between compartments. Build in the shallows first. If it keeps happening, move.