Korean games firm Krafton has appointed Steve Papoutsis as the new CEO of Subnautica maker Unknown Worlds. 

In a post to investors, the company announced that the studio's previous management – co-founders Ted Gill, Charlie Cleveland, and Max McGuire – have been replaced "effective immediately". Krafton added that it had tried to keep the developer's founders around but hadn't been able to do so. 

Steve Papoutsis is an industry vet who has worked at the likes of Crystal Dynamics and Visceral Games. In 2019 he joined Krafton via the company's Striking Distance Studios, known for 2021's The Callisto Protocoo.

“There is nothing more important than the gamer experience. Given the anticipation around Subnautica 2, we owe our players nothing less than the best possible game, as soon as possible,” Krafton CEO CH Kim said. 

“We are thrilled Steve is joining us in our shared commitment at Krafton and Unknown Worlds to deliver Subnautica 2 as a more complete and satisfying entry in the series—one that truly lives up to player expectations.”

Papoutsis added: “I am thrilled to be taking on this new role within the Krafton family and to be working alongside the immensely talented team at Unknown Worlds. Player experience is our North Star, and the team is laser-focused on delivering the best possible game for the Subnautica community. We appreciate Ted, Charlie and Max for their past roles in having built this beloved world, and thank the fans for your devotion and patience."