Subnautica 2's Buddy System update brings in the promised proximity chat, easier trading, and emotes so you can sarcastically applaud your friends

Subnautica 2's "Buddy System" update brings with it proximity chat, trading improvements, and emotes for a friendlier multiplayer experience. This latest version, numbered 1.2, focuses on enhancing the social aspects of playing with friends. Proximity chat has finally arrived, meaning that friends' voices will be louder when they're closer, and softer when they're farther away. Adding to the charm, the voices will sound like they're coming over a radio signal that's losing reception, the more distant the friend becomes.

The update also introduces player emotes, limited to thumbs up, down, clapping, and raising or clapping fists. This feature allows players to sarcastically applaud their friends when they stumble. Inventory sharing is now possible, as players can walk up to each other and directly transfer items between their inventories. The game also provides a lifeline in case of downing, giving players a short window to swim over to a friend and share oxygen to rescue them.

Customisation options have been expanded with two new avatars to choose from and additional suit colors. Players can also use tracking tags, which can be thrown into the environment to trace items or placed in portable lockers for easy retrieval. These tags will extend the range of the blackbox signal if they're on a player's person at the time of death.

For easier navigation, HUD icons will become smaller when not directly in view, while pinned recipes will be more prominent. The base builder tool should provide clearer guidance on what can or cannot be placed. The update also includes bug fixes and will be available starting tomorrow, August 19th.