Can you kill predators? How to deal with hostile fish in Subnautica 2

The first time I was in the depths of Proteus i Subnautica 2, I was attacked by several hostile fish that seemed to have no goal beyond absolutely destroying my newly printed body. After several failed attempts to hit the predators with mine Multi-tool for survivalI realized that I would probably have to get creative because dealing with hostile creatures i Subnautica 2.

An underwater stone arch in the starting biome of Subnautica 2 Early Access

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Predator Evasion Overview – Subnautica 2

Can you kill predators in Subnautica 2?

Currently, there appears to be no way to permanently kill or deal with predators Subnautica 2. This will likely come as a surprise to fans of the original game, as there were lethal weapons available at one point. However, this game seems to take a significantly different approach. Subnautica 2 — at least in its current early access mode — is focused on avoidance and insidious.

There are two primary methods of dealing with predators in Subnautica 2:

  • Avoidance: This is the primary method for a significant portion of the game. Distraction is the key. Some advanced tools can also give you time once they are crafted.
  • Stealth: While technically a form of evasion, Stealth will become a huge option once you unlock certain passive Biomods and customizations. This allows you to avoid predators altogether, instead of having to react to their attacks.

How to avoid predators in Subnautica 2

Sub2-Predator-2 Image via GameRant; Courtesy of Unknown Worlds Entertainment

Flares are the best early option:

When you first leave your Lifepod and start exploring the expedition's wreckage, you'll find that many locations have hostile sea life. Pretty soon you will find out Distraction flares can be used to distract enemies. With all the information thrown at you early on Subnautica 2, it is easy to see how many people may not see this information.

How to create flares:

Subnautica-2-Distraction-Flare-Recipe Image via GameRant: Courtesy of Unknown Worlds Entertainment

Fortunately, distraction flares are available to craft from scratch, and the necessary materials are incredibly plentiful. Crafting Flares requires the following items:

This recipe gives you three Flares.

At the beginning of the game, you must use the damaged Fabricator in the Lifepod. Once you unlock the Habitat Builder you'll be able to create your own Fabricator inside a base, but for now the Lifepod will suffice.

You should always have a decent supply of distraction flares made at all times. Be sure to have them in your Quickslot bar, especially early in the game. You can hover over an item in your main inventory to see the Quickslot prompt.

How to use distraction flares in Subnautica 2:

Sub2-Distract-enemies-2 Image via GameRant; Courtesy of Unknown Worlds Entertainment

Basically, the target flares with Distraction Subnautica 2 is to simply distract hostile enemies and then get away.

You can do this preventively, or when you start to be attacked. When you find yourself getting targeted, select Distraction Flare from your Quickslot field or from your main inventory. You must then light the flare – RT on Xbox Series X – and then throw it. You want to throw it away from the destination you are trying to reach.

Remember that this is only a temporary solution, and most predators will not remain distracted for long. That's why you always want to have a good supply of distraction flares with you. You will likely release several to be safe when multiple predators are in a single location.

Other evasion methods in Subnautica 2:

Sub2-Sonic resonator Image via GameRant; Courtesy of Unknown Worlds Entertainment

While Distraction Flares will be the primary deterrent during the early parts of the game, once you start unlocking advanced tools, there are some that can be used as defensive weapons.

The best example of this is the Sonic Resonator, which you need to unlock in order to progress with the main story. To do this, simply create the basic scanner and then scan any abandoned Sonic Resonator you come across. Be sure to search all abandoned structures and platforms.

You can find Abandoned Sonic Resonators in the following location:

  • Wu “Wu” Lianghai's Blackbox: Enter the structure across from the Old Habitat, where Lianghai's Blackbox is located. On the lower level, you'll find a Sonic Resonator to scan on a desk near one of the exits. You can find another one on the ground in the next room. Scanning both will unlock the Sonic Resonator Blueprint.

Once you have a Sonic Resonator, you can use its power to temporarily stun mid-level predators, giving you a small window to escape or complete your mission.

You'll also eventually unlock tools like the Tadpole, which makes it much easier to avoid hostiles while traveling.

How to unlock Camouflage Biomod:

Stealth is also an option when you unlock the Camouflage mod. To do this, you need to scan the Bullethead, which is located near the Alien Ruins in Krakorum.

Look in the deep trenches and near the base of the rock formations in the area. Once you get the Camouflage mod, you will be able to hide from enemies as they pass you. Remember to keep an eye on your oxygen, as it will still decrease while you hide.

Thinking of getting started building your own base in Subnautica 2? Here is a selection of guides to help you get started!

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