Krafton Allegedly Fired CEO for Wanting to Pay Employee Bonuses
Ahmed Hassan 
Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- Krafton is facing a lawsuit from Unknown Worlds founders over alleged delay tactics, aiming to avoid paying a substantial bonus related to the release of Subnautica 2.
- The dispute originates from Kraftons 2021 acquisition of Unknown Worlds, with a $500 million purchase price that included an escrowed bonus contingent on achieving specific targets by a deadline.
- The lawsuit seeks to address the contractual disagreement regarding the delayed bonus payment and the release of Subnautica 2.
- This controversy has caused public controversy over Kraftons business practices and its relationship with Unknown Worlds.
Lawsuit Filed Against Krafton over Alleged Delay Tactics for Subnautica 2 Bonus Payment
Charlie Cleveland, Max McGuire, and Ted Gill, the founders of Unknown Worlds, have filed a lawsuit against game publisher Krafton. They claim Krafton is employing an “obstructionist agenda” by delaying the release of Subnautica 2 to avoid paying a substantial bonus due to Unknown Worlds.
Controversy Erupts over Krafton’s Alleged Bonus Payment Dispute for Subnautica 2 and Unknown Worlds Targets
This dispute stems from Krafton’s 2021 acquisition of Unknown Worlds. Although the exact purchase price was not disclosed, it is estimated to be around $500 million. Of this total, half was payable at the time of purchase, with an additional $250 million held in escrow as a bonus contingent upon Unknown Worlds achieving specific targets by a set deadline. The lawsuit aims to address this contractual disagreement regarding the bonus payment and Subnautica 2’s release.
In Case You Missed It
As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, the recent actions by US President Donald Trump have drawn significant criticism from other world leaders. For a deeper look into China’s stance on these developments, be sure to read Sophie Laurent’s insightful piece “China Criticizes Tariff Hike Against Brazil, Accuses US of Intimidation,” published on July 12, 2025. In this article, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs addresses the controversial tariffs placed on Brazilian goods, highlighting concerns over international cooperation and trade integrity. To explore how these moves could reshape global economic relations, check out China Criticizes Tariff Hike Against Brazil, Accuses US of Intimidation.
For those interested in the latest developments in the gaming industry, especially regarding major financial arrangements and project delays, be sure to check out “Krafton Extends Payment Deadline for $25 Million Bonus to Subnautica 2 Producer, Unknown Worlds, Due to Game Launch Delay Until 2026” by Carlos Mendoza (published on July 16, 2025). This insightful piece delves into the recent decision by Krafton to adjust payment terms with Unknown Worlds in light of unexpected delays. Don’t miss out on this update at Krafton Extends Payment Deadline for $25 Million Bonus to Subnautica 2 Producer, Unknown Worlds, Due to Game Launch Delay Until 2026!
For those interested in the expanding influence of international partnerships within the gaming industry, be sure to check out our latest piece, “UAE Publisher Announces Partnership with Octopath Traveler Studio Acquire,” by Ahmed Hassan (July 14, 2025). This article explores how the UAE is following Saudi Arabia’s lead in investing in video games and highlights their new collaboration with Acquire. It’s an exciting step towards diversifying the region’s gaming sector—head over to UAE Publisher Announces Partnership with Octopath Traveler Studio Acquire to learn more!
About the Author
Jonathan Dubinski 
Sophie Laurent 
Marcus Thompson 
Carlos Mendoza 
Bruno Pferd 
