South Korean game publisher Krafton Inc. is involved in a legal dispute with former executives of its US subsidiary, Unknown Worlds.

The dispute centers on decisions regarding the development of the upcoming game Subnautica 2.

Krafton said that its actions aimed to prioritize game quality and meet fan expectations.

Earlier this month, Krafton removed Unknown Worlds co-founders Charlie Cleveland and Max McGuire, along with CEO Ted Gill.

The company cited delays in development and a lack of leadership as reasons for their dismissal.

In response, the former executives filed a lawsuit, claiming breach of contract and alleging that Krafton delayed the game to avoid paying a US$250 million bonus.

The company highlighted that releasing the game prematurely with insufficient content would have disappointed players and harmed the reputations of both the Subnautica and Unknown Worlds brands.

Krafton acquired Unknown Worlds in 2021 to broaden its portfolio beyond the PUBG franchise.

The acquisition was based on the studio’s reputation for creating popular, community-driven games.

However, the ongoing public dispute has raised concerns among fans.

Some are expressing worries about the game’s creative direction and calling for a boycott.