Subnautica Below Zero: Game modes Subnautica Guide and Walkthrough
Last update: 27 March 2021
Just like the original game, Subnautica: Below Zero has 4 different game modes with different difficulty. This chapter contains descriptions of all modes. Thanks to that, you will be able to choose the game mode that is the best for you.
Survival
Survival is the basic game mode in Subnautica: Below Zero. You will have to manage oxygen, hunger, and thirst. If your oxygen runs out or your health bar drops to zero - you die.
In this mode, death isn't permanent. You respawn in the last visited base. In some cases, you will also lose a few items. They stay in the place where you died which means that you can always retrieve them.
Freedom
In this mode, you don't have to worry about hunger and thirst. However, you still need to watch out for your oxygen supplies. The only way you can die is to either suffocate or receive enough damage.
Hardcore
This mode is for those who are looking for a real challenge. Hardcore is similar to Survival - you need to manage all your character's needs. However, there is a big difference here - death is permanent. The game ends when your character dies.
Death is hard to avoid. Remember to carry food and water. Meals get spoiled fast. To avoid this, keep raw fish and cook them only when you are hungry. Out of the two methods of preparing a meal, a fish cured in salt will last longer. The disadvantage of cured food is that it dehydrates you.
As for oxygen, the thing that matters here is the size of your oxygen tank. You need to upgrade it on a regular basis. Always have an Air Bladder in your inventory - it will help you resurface in critical moments. Don't forget about Base Pumps and other sources of oxygen. More information can be found on What are the available sources of oxygen? page.
Creative
This mode gives you unlimited exploration. You don't have to worry about any needs. The health bar is deactivated, too. This means you can do anything you want to without worrying that you can die.