Nautus Blends Cozy Base Building With 4-Player Submarine Exploration

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By Gaming News
15 August 2026 no comments
Magic Design Studios returns with a dual-loop exploration adventure

French indie developer Magic Design Studios, best known for the 2022 roguelike Have a Nice Death, has officially unveiled its next project. Published by Arc Games, Nautus drops players into a mysterious sub-aquatic expedition filled with mutant creatures and amnesiac scientists.


Key Takeaways
  • Nautus combines cozy tropical base building with hostile underwater submarine exploration.
  • The hand-drawn 2D adventure supports solo play and online co-op for up to four players.
  • Magic Design Studios plans to release the title in Early Access on PC via Steam in 2027.

Cozy Base Building Meets Hostile Abyss

Nautus operates on a dual-loop design structure, separating gameplay into two distinct experiences. On the surface, players manage a tropical outpost, craft essential gear from refined materials, and interact with an eccentric cast of locals.

Below the surface, the tone shifts dramatically. Players pilot customizable submarines through coral reefs and sunken shipwrecks to investigate the disappearance of a character named Bernard Torpedo. The official Steam announcement confirms players will fight and capture hostile marine life across uncharted trenches.

This stark contrast between a relaxing surface sanctuary and a high-tension underwater ecosystem mirrors the pacing seen in modern management hybrids. However, Magic Design Studios explicitly avoids the survival horror label, focusing instead on narrative mystery and base expansion.


When Does Nautus Release and On What Platforms?

Nautus is currently scheduled to launch in Early Access in 2027 exclusively for PC on Steam. Players can currently wishlist the title on Steam, though Arc Games and Magic Design Studios have not yet provided a specific day or month for the release.

The team confirmed the 2027 window via official press materials and the game’s storefront page. During this Early Access period, the developers plan to iterate on the core mechanics, submarine upgrades, and cooperative stability based on community feedback.

Also, learn more about how to join Subnautica 2’s experimental branch!


Does Nautus Support Multiplayer?

Yes, Nautus features online cooperative multiplayer for up to four players. The entire game, from expanding the surface outpost to exploring the deepest ocean trenches in specialized submarines, is playable either completely solo or with a team of three friends.

Coordinating with a crew will likely streamline resource gathering and module crafting. Players must work together to locate lost artifact stones, which are required to cure the local NPCs of their paralyzing fear of the ocean and restore their lost memories.

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A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !

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