Subnautica and Below Zero received a Switch 2 update announced by Unknown Worlds on July 21, 2026. It adds three graphics presets and includes separate bug fixes for each game. The studio says the presets target different frame rates, shadow settings and resolutions; those figures are specifications, not independent performance tests.
What the Switch 2 update adds
Unknown Worlds said the update for both games “was just released” on July 21, 2026. Its main addition is a choice of three graphics presets. The announcement does not provide advance-notice context for the release, so “surprise” is best understood as a headline description rather than the studio’s characterization. Unknown Worlds’ announcement is the source for the update details.
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| 1 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo Switch 2 System with Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle | $568.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $619.00 | Buy on Amazon |
How the three graphics presets compare
The following are the targets and settings stated by Unknown Worlds, not results from published benchmark testing:
| Preset | Frame-rate goal | Shadows | Handheld resolution | Docked resolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balanced | Up to 60 fps | Enabled | 1080p | 1440p |
| High Framerate | Highest possible frame rate | Disabled | 720p | 1080p |
| High Quality | Steady 30 fps target | Enabled | 1080p | 1440p |
Balanced is the default experience described in the announcement. High Quality lists the same resolutions and shadow setting as Balanced but targets a steady 30 fps instead of up to 60 fps. High Framerate lowers resolution and turns off shadows to prioritize frame rate. The announcement does not explain how to access the preset selector or provide measured frame-rate results.
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#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
Subnautica fixes
The update notes list these fixes for Subnautica:
- Updated terminology to “Joy-Con 2” and changed the feedback-page instruction from “Click” to “Press.”
- Restored missing metal trim on vertically stacked round Multipurpose Rooms.
- Fixed the Scanner Drone camera clipping into the environment if the player died while using the drone.
- Removed unintended access to the debug menu.
- Fixed save screenshots displaying at the wrong size after switching between handheld and docked play.
Below Zero fixes
Below Zero received the same “Joy-Con 2” terminology and “Click” to “Press” feedback-page wording changes. Its additional fixes are:
- Restored the “Highlight Interactable” accessibility setting and fixed specular lighting.
- Added navigation fixes for the Control Room minimap.
- Corrected environment textures in Deep Purple Vents, Lilypad Islands and Thermal Spires.
- Restored the endgame green glow, Spy Pengling glitch effect and dizziness effect in story cutscenes.
- Removed unintended access to the debug menu and fixed weather appearing inside caves.
- Fixed an issue that required players to save and reload before applying colors to a newly created Seatruck.
Which platforms are covered?
The July 2026 announcement is specifically for the Switch 2 versions; it does not list a simultaneous update for PC, PlayStation or Xbox. Earlier platform notices should not be read as a statement about this release: in August 2025, Unknown Worlds described patches for Steam, Epic, Xbox and PlayStation and said those particular patches were not then coming to Nintendo Switch. Those notices applied to the 2025 patches, not the July 2026 Switch 2 update. See the studio’s Subnautica patch notice and Below Zero patch notice. The studio’s home page also links to Switch versions of both games, but does not add rollout details for this update.
Quick Recap
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- 【Next-Gen Hybrid Gaming with Stunning Visuals】Experience a vivid 7.9‑inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR support, and enjoy 4K TV output at up to 60 fps when docked — for immersive gameplay at home or on the go.
- 【Versatile 3 Play Modes】Seamlessly switch between Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes — all featuring intuitive controls and smooth performance, wherever you choose to play.
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- 【Powerful Storage & Joy‑Con 2 Controllers】Includes 256 GB internal storage (expandable with microSD), magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers, docking station, HDMI cable, AC adapter, grip, and straps — everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup.
Rank #2
- The next evolution of the Nintendo Switch system
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Supports up to 4K resolution** when using a compatible game and TV connected via the included Nintendo Switch 2 dock
- Nintendo Switch 2 plays compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games.***
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