The End User License Agreement (EULA) for Subnautica 2, published by KRAFTON and developed by Unknown Worlds, includes specific provisions regarding user-generated content and content creation. The EULA grants players a limited, non-exclusive license to create and share content based on the game, including gameplay videos, screenshots, livestreams, and written guides. However, this license comes with several conditions that content creators must understand to avoid potential issues with copyright claims or account actions.
The core provision states that players may create and distribute gameplay content on public platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, and social media, provided that the content is primarily about the game itself and not used for purposes that compete with KRAFTON's commercial interests. This means that standard gameplay videos, reviews, tutorials, and let's play content are explicitly permitted. The EULA also permits the use of game footage in monetized content, subject to the specific conditions outlined in the streaming and monetization sections.
One important restriction is that the EULA prohibits the use of official Subnautica 2 artwork, logos, and branding in ways that imply official endorsement or affiliation. Content creators may use game footage and screenshots captured during gameplay, but they cannot use official marketing materials, key art, or logos in their thumbnails, overlays, or channel branding without explicit written permission from KRAFTON. This restriction is common in gaming EULAs and is primarily intended to prevent confusion between official and fan-created content.
The EULA also addresses modifications and derivative works. Players are permitted to create mods for the PC version of the game, but mods must not be sold or monetized directly. Mod creators may accept donations or Patreon support, but they cannot gate mod access behind a paywall. Additionally, mods that alter the game's multiplayer functionality or circumvent anti-cheat systems are strictly prohibited and may result in account bans. The full EULA is available on the KRAFTON website and should be reviewed by any content creator planning to build a channel around Subnautica 2 content.
What the Subnautica 2 EULA Says About Content Creation
The End User License Agreement (EULA) for Subnautica 2, published by KRAFTON and developed by Unknown Worlds, includes specific provisions regarding user-generated content and content creation. The EULA grants players a limited, non-exclusive license to create and share content based on the game, including gameplay videos, screenshots, livestreams, and written guides. However, this license comes with several conditions that content creators must understand to avoid potential issues with copyright claims or account actions.
The core provision states that players may create and distribute gameplay content on public platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, and social media, provided that the content is primarily about the game itself and not used for purposes that compete with KRAFTON's commercial interests. This means that standard gameplay videos, reviews, tutorials, and let's play content are explicitly permitted. The EULA also permits the use of game footage in monetized content, subject to the specific conditions outlined in the streaming and monetization sections.
One important restriction is that the EULA prohibits the use of official Subnautica 2 artwork, logos, and branding in ways that imply official endorsement or affiliation. Content creators may use game footage and screenshots captured during gameplay, but they cannot use official marketing materials, key art, or logos in their thumbnails, overlays, or channel branding without explicit written permission from KRAFTON. This restriction is common in gaming EULAs and is primarily intended to prevent confusion between official and fan-created content.
The EULA also addresses modifications and derivative works. Players are permitted to create mods for the PC version of the game, but mods must not be sold or monetized directly. Mod creators may accept donations or Patreon support, but they cannot gate mod access behind a paywall. Additionally, mods that alter the game's multiplayer functionality or circumvent anti-cheat systems are strictly prohibited and may result in account bans. The full EULA is available on the KRAFTON website and should be reviewed by any content creator planning to build a channel around Subnautica 2 content.
Streaming and YouTube Monetization Rules
The Subnautica 2 EULA provides relatively generous terms for content monetization compared to some other publishers. Standard YouTube monetization through the YouTube Partner Program (ad revenue) is explicitly permitted, meaning creators can earn ad revenue from gameplay videos, tutorials, reviews, and let's play content without requiring additional permission from KRAFTON. This covers the most common monetization model used by gaming content creators and applies to both long-form videos and YouTube Shorts.
For Twitch and other livestreaming platforms, the EULA permits monetization through standard platform mechanisms, including subscriptions, bits, and ad revenue. Streamers are required to include the game title in their stream title or category and are encouraged but not required to disclose that the game is in early access. The EULA does not impose any restrictions on stream duration, frequency, or the number of streams a creator can produce. However, streamers should be aware that using copyrighted music that plays within the game may trigger DMCA takedowns on VODs, as the in-game music license may not extend to rebroadcasts on streaming platforms.
Sponsored content and brand deals involving Subnautica 2 are permitted under the EULA, but with specific conditions. Creators must disclose any sponsorship or paid promotion in accordance with applicable advertising disclosure laws (such as FTC guidelines in the United States). The EULA prohibits sponsorships from companies that compete with KRAFTON or that promote products and services that KRAFTON deems incompatible with its brand values. In practice, this means that sponsorships from gaming hardware companies, food delivery services, and similar non-competing brands are generally acceptable, while sponsorships from other game publishers may require additional review.
Affiliate links and merchandise sales are not addressed directly in the EULA, but standard interpretations of the agreement suggest that these monetization methods are permissible as long as they do not imply official endorsement. Creators should avoid using Subnautica 2 branding or artwork on merchandise without permission, as this could constitute trademark infringement. When in doubt, consult the full EULA text or contact KRAFTON's community management team for clarification on specific monetization scenarios.
Patreon and Membership Content Restrictions
The Subnautica 2 EULA includes specific provisions regarding membership platforms such as Patreon, YouTube Memberships, and Twitch Subscriptions. These provisions are designed to balance the rights of content creators to monetize their work with KRAFTON's interest in ensuring that gameplay content remains accessible to the broader community. Understanding these restrictions is particularly important for creators who rely on membership revenue as part of their business model.
The key restriction is that gameplay content featuring Subnautica 2 cannot be placed exclusively behind a paywall. This means that if a creator produces a gameplay video, tutorial, or guide based on Subnautica 2, that content must be made publicly accessible within a reasonable timeframe. The EULA specifically permits "early access" for paying members, allowing creators to release content to their Patreon supporters before making it public. However, the content must eventually be released to the public, typically within 24-72 hours, depending on the creator's membership tier structure.
Live streams on Patreon or other membership platforms are subject to the same rules. A private livestream for paying members is permitted, but the VOD must be made publicly available afterward. This restriction does not apply to non-gameplay content such as behind-the-scenes videos, commentary, or editorial content that does not feature substantial gameplay footage. Creators can also offer members-only perks such as polls, Q&A sessions, and merchandise discounts that are not directly tied to gameplay content without running afoul of the EULA.
The community response to these Patreon restrictions has been mixed. Some creators feel that the limitations on paywalled content unfairly restrict their ability to monetize their work, particularly for creators who produce high-production-value content that requires significant time and resources. Others argue that the restrictions are reasonable and ensure that gameplay content remains accessible to all players, not just those who can afford to pay. KRAFTON has stated that the restrictions are intended to prevent commercial exploitation of the game while still allowing creators to build sustainable businesses around their content.
Community Response and Developer Clarification
The Subnautica 2 EULA's content creation provisions sparked significant discussion within the community when the game launched in early access in May 2026. The primary concern raised by content creators was the ambiguity surrounding the Patreon restrictions, which some interpreted as a blanket prohibition on any monetized gameplay content. This interpretation caused confusion and led several prominent creators to delay or cancel planned Subnautica 2 content until the terms were clarified.
In response to the community feedback, KRAFTON released an official clarification in June 2026, coinciding with the EA 1.1 Adaptive Measures update. The clarification emphasized that the EULA is intended to protect against commercial exploitation of the game, such as unauthorized merchandise, competitive gaming services, and pay-to-access gameplay content that competes with the game itself. The clarification explicitly stated that standard content creation activities, including YouTube videos, Twitch streams, and Patreon early-access content, are fully permitted and encouraged.
The clarification also addressed several specific questions raised by the community. KRAFTON confirmed that mod creators may accept donations and Patreon support, as long as mod access is not gated behind a paywall. The company also confirmed that fan art and community events are encouraged and that creators do not need to seek permission for standard content creation activities. However, the clarification reiterated that official artwork and branding cannot be used in merchandise without permission, and that mods altering multiplayer or anti-cheat systems remain prohibited.
Following the clarification, the community response has been largely positive, with most content creators resuming or beginning Subnautica 2 content creation. The incident highlighted the importance of clear communication between publishers and content creators, particularly for early access games where community engagement is critical to the game's success. KRAFTON has committed to maintaining an open dialogue with the content creation community and has established a dedicated contact channel for creators with questions about the EULA or content creation policies. Creators are encouraged to reach out through the official KRAFTON community channels if they have specific questions about their content plans.