The collaboration between Dave the Diver and Subnautica 2, announced at the Triple-I Initiative showcase, will serve as the former's final major DLC. Set for release in early 2027, the free content will transport Dave and Bancho to Subnautica 2's alien ocean moon, where they will encounter the game's signature creatures, including the Nibbler Mango and the cthulhian Leviathan. PC Gamer notes the DLC allows players to 'hunt and kill' the Nibbler Mangos, which have been a source of frustration in Subnautica 2 due to the game's lack of combat options for large enemies.
Mintrocket studio director Jaeho Hwang highlighted the collaboration's focus on merging the distinct underwater exploration styles of both games, while Subnautica 2 creative director Anthony Gallegos called it a 'love letter' to both franchises. The DLC will include mining, fishing, and sushi recipe discoveries, with the trailer showcasing Dave's portal traversal to Subnautica 2's world. Eurogamer emphasized the partnership's significance, noting it as a 'surprisingly obvious' fit despite previous collaborations with titles like Godzilla and Yakuza.
While the DLC is described as the 'final major' update for Dave the Diver, Mintrocket hinted at potential smaller content updates or collaborations based on player feedback. The announcement coincides with Subnautica 2's continued success, which sold over 5 million copies in its first month. However, no confirmation was given about Dave's appearance in Subnautica 2's future updates, as the latter remains in early access.