For the best starter base locations in Subnautica 2, focus on the safe shallows near your lifepod or explore 500 meters east for an ideal mix of safety and resource access.

Ideal Base Spots: Near the Lifepod

Starting with the area around the lifepod is an excellent choice for beginner bases. This location offers close proximity to essential resources such as titanium, quartz, and lead, which are abundant in nearby caves and surrounding areas. Solar power and bioreactor options are readily available for energy needs, with fish easily accessible in the shallow waters.

While this area is generally safe, you may encounter minor nuisances such as "nibblers" and hammerheads. These creatures are more annoying than dangerous, as they deal little damage and can disrupt your base-building process. However, the main drawback is that this location is far from mid- and late-game biomes, making it less convenient as your progress deepens into the game.

Where to Set Up Base: Eastern Shallows

An intermediate base location is about 500 meters east of the lifepod. This area balances access to shallows resources while starting to edge closer to more advanced biomes towards the east.

Solar power remains viable, and thermal power becomes a convenient option due to nearby hot areas with temperatures reaching around 80°C. While thermal plants operate at slightly reduced efficiency compared to hydroelectric power, they can still provide a stable energy source. Additionally, this spot allows for some creative base extensions, letting players push their structures slightly into the void for an appealing aesthetic, albeit limited by the early access constraints.

An underwater base with modules and an open ocean view, accompanied by part of a submersible vehicle.

Underwater base setup in a shallow area with visible base components and module details. — IzPrebuilt

Advanced Base: Late Game Location

For late-game efficiency, consider setting up a base approximately 1,300 meters east of the lifepod. This location offers proximity to end-game resources and materials while maintaining a high level of safety directly around the base. Thermal and hydroelectric power supplies are readily available nearby, providing limitless energy options.

The surroundings are rich in titanium, copper, quartz, and salt, ensuring you won’t lack essential materials for your operations. However, be mindful that the dangers increase the further you venture from your base—300 meters outward can bring encounters with aggressive fauna. This location is ideal once you acquire your Tadpole vehicle to navigate efficiently and overcome potential threats.

A game scene showing part of a constructed base module surrounded by glowing environment elements.

A constructed base module in a glowing underwater environment. — IzPrebuilt

A futuristic underwater base within a glowing green environment, surrounded by neon-lit structures and plants.

A glowing underwater base in a vibrant green-lit biome suitable for a late-game base location. — IzPrebuilt

FAQ

Best locations to build your first base in Subnautica 2

Beginner players should focus on the shallows near the lifepod for abundant early-game resources and safety. Alternatively, venture 500 meters east for balanced resource access and proximity to mid-game biomes.

When should I move to advanced locations?

Transition to advanced locations when you have gathered sufficient resources and acquired a mobility vehicle such as the Tadpole to navigate challenging environments safely.

What factors should I consider in picking a base location?

Consider factors like accessibility to resources, safety, proximity to desired biomes or points of interest, and the availability of reliable power options such as solar, hydroelectric, or thermal energy.

Sources

Screenshots on this page are frames from the videos below, used to illustrate the steps they describe. All rights remain with their creators.

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