Wakemaker

The Wakemaker (also referred to as "Wake Makers") is Subnautica 2's replacement for the Seaglide, the handheld propulsion device from the original Subnautica and Below Zero. Rather than a held tool, the Wakemaker is a set of wearable underwater boosters -- the first wearable propulsion equipment in the franchise.

Design change from the Seaglide

The original Seaglide was a handheld device that players gripped in front of them while swimming. While it provided a significant speed boost, it took up screen space and blocked part of the player's view. The Wakemaker solves this by moving the propulsion system to the player's body, keeping the field of view clear.

This design choice also fits better with the co-op gameplay. In multiplayer, other players need to see your character clearly. A body-worn booster system looks more natural in third-person than a character awkwardly holding a propeller in front of their face.

Role in the vehicle lineup

The Wakemaker sits below the Tadpole submersible in terms of protection and capability. Where the Tadpole offers an enclosed cockpit, storage, and depth rating, the Wakemaker is a personal speed tool for quick traversal in safe or moderately dangerous waters. The Dive Elevator handles bulk vertical transport.