When players first dive into Subnautica: Below Zero, one of the biggest surprises is how different it feels from the original Subnautica. Instead of being entirely underwater, Below Zero introduces large above-sea-level environments that completely change the pacing, exploration style, and survival strategy.
While Subnautica: Below Zero is more compact than the original game, that doesn’t make it shallow. In fact, its smaller scale creates a tighter, more story-focused experience. The Arctic setting feels more hostile, more personal, and at times even more isolating than the tropical waters of Planet 4546B.
The land areas are a huge part of that shift. They aren’t just side content. They’re essential for story progression, critical upgrades, and long-term survival. If you’re wondering how to reach them and whether you should explore them early, this guide breaks it all down in a way that keeps the adventure intact without spoiling the experience.
The State of Subnautica: Below Zero
When Below Zero first entered early access, it felt shorter and less fleshed out compared to its predecessor. Over time, however, the developers steadily expanded the world, refined the story, and added meaningful content updates. Watching the evolution of the game was part of the experience for many players.
Unlike the original Subnautica, which spent nearly five years in development before its official release, Below Zero took a more streamlined approach. It was designed as a standalone expansion that grew into its own full experience. The result is a game that feels more focused. The world is smaller, but the narrative hits harder, and exploration feels intentional rather than overwhelming.
And nowhere is that design philosophy more obvious than in the above-sea-level areas.
When Can You Explore the Land Areas?
The great news is that you don’t have to wait long.
As soon as you complete the prologue and reach open water, the world is effectively yours to explore. After you exit the drop pod and establish your initial Lifepod save point, you can technically head toward any major landmass you can see on the horizon.
That freedom is part of what makes Subnautica: Below Zero special. The game doesn’t heavily gate these regions behind late-game vehicles or story triggers. If you’re brave enough, you can attempt to reach them early.
That said, “can” and “should” are two very different things.
Why the Land Areas Matter
The above-sea-level regions in Subnautica: Below Zero are not optional sightseeing destinations. They are central to the story and progression systems. Key narrative beats occur on land, and some of the most important blueprints, upgrades, and lore discoveries are found in these frozen environments.
These areas also introduce new survival mechanics. Temperature becomes a serious concern. Unlike underwater sections where oxygen is your primary threat, the surface challenges you with freezing conditions, blizzards, and hostile wildlife.
Exploring these regions too early can feel overwhelming. The Arctic Spires, in particular, are home to some of the most aggressive creatures in the game. Without proper gear, you’ll spend more time running than exploring.
A smart strategy is to focus first on underwater exploration. Build your early tools. Find mobility upgrades. Secure the Seaglide. Craft better suits. Then, when you feel prepared, transition to land exploration with confidence instead of desperation.
How to Get to Arctic Spires
The Arctic Spires are one of the most intense above-ground regions in Subnautica: Below Zero. Even the name sounds intimidating, and the experience lives up to it.
From your Lifepod, exit and orient yourself carefully. You’ll want to head toward the large floating ice formations visible in the distance. As you move in that direction, you’ll eventually encounter a massive ice wall structure that splits into sections.
Look for an opening between the ice walls. Once you find a narrow passage, swim through until you reach a climbable ledge. This is your transition point from ocean survival to frozen terrain navigation.
Once on land, the path becomes more straightforward. Ice walls will guide you naturally inward. The environment funnels you along a semi-linear route, but don’t mistake that for safety. The Arctic Spires region contains aggressive predators that patrol the area, and they are not forgiving to underprepared players.
This area sits roughly a few hundred meters from your initial drop point, making it deceptively accessible. However, distance is not the real challenge. Preparation is.
If you choose to explore the Arctic Spires early, move cautiously. Bring healing items. Be ready to retreat. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to come back later.
How to Get to Rocket Island
Rocket Island is much easier to approach early on, and for many players, it becomes their first major land exploration experience.
To reach Rocket Island, exit your Lifepod and swim toward the surface during clear weather. When the snow and rain lighten up, scan the horizon. You should notice a mountain-like silhouette rising in the distance.
That’s your destination.
At first, it looks deceptively small. As you swim closer, the shape grows clearer and more defined. Eventually, the rocky structure reveals itself as a large island with vertical cliffs and man-made structures.
Swimming there without mobility tools can feel tense. The open water between your pod and the island is not entirely safe, and the journey can take longer than expected. This is where the Seaglide becomes invaluable.
Crafting the Seaglide before attempting the trip dramatically reduces travel time and lowers risk. It allows you to move quickly, scan surroundings, and retreat if necessary. Without it, the swim can feel slow and exposed.
Once you reach Rocket Island, you’ll discover why it’s important. It houses story-driven locations and key exploration points that push the narrative forward.
Unlike the Arctic Spires, Rocket Island is more forgiving early on. It still has environmental hazards, but it doesn’t overwhelm new players in the same way.
Should You Explore Land Early?
The answer depends on your playstyle.
If you enjoy high-risk exploration and learning through trial and error, heading to these land areas early can be thrilling. You’ll uncover story fragments sooner and experience the tension of survival in extreme conditions.
If you prefer steady progression and stronger equipment, it’s smarter to build up underwater first. Gather resources. Unlock mobility upgrades. Craft better survival gear. Establish a reliable base of operations.
Subnautica: Below Zero rewards patience. The land areas aren’t going anywhere. Exploring them later often makes the experience more enjoyable because you’re equipped to fully engage with the environment rather than simply survive it.
Final Thoughts
Subnautica: Below Zero may feel shorter than the original Subnautica, but its land areas add depth and variety that transform the overall experience. They shift survival mechanics, intensify story progression, and challenge players in entirely new ways.
The Arctic Spires demand preparation and caution. Rocket Island invites curiosity and exploration. Both are essential parts of the journey.
The beauty of Below Zero is that it trusts you. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you rush toward the frozen cliffs immediately or spend hours building your underwater empire first, the world reacts to your choices.
Just remember: in the Arctic, survival isn’t just about oxygen anymore. It’s about preparation, awareness, and knowing when to push forward, and when to turn back.
