I’m Thalassophobic and I’m Playing Subnautica! Pt.1

It’s no secret to anyone who listens to The Gaming Outsider that I have a phobia of underwater levels in video games. I’m Thalassophobic, which is defined as a fear of large bodies of water and what lies within it.

Video games from my past such as Super Mario 64’s giant toothy eel in Jolly Roger Bay and Banjo Kazooie’s friendly but sinister looking mechanical shark Clanker have most likely caused this phobia. I remember being scared and turning off my Nintendo 64 when I hopped into the dark, murky sewers in Shadows of the Empire only to be greeted by a giant tentacled monstrosity. Even as an adult in my mid 30’s I still get anxiety and shot nerves when I have to swim in deep underwater sections in video games.

To folks like me, Unknown Worlds’ open world oceanic survival game Subnautica is pure nightmare fuel. The game definitely was designed to prey on these fears even though on the surface it was designed to be a beautiful and oftentimes relaxing adventure under the sea. Elements of Subnautica are included to frighten players and those who have thalassophobia will be affected by these elements the most. For that reason I have avoided playing Subnautica even though I’m very much interested in checking it out. Well that’s all about to change.

Join me as I challenge myself to face my fears and explore the depths of the alien planet of Subnautica. I will be live streaming my playthrough when I am able to sit down and get some quiet time with the game. Each week I will report in on The Gaming Outsider podcast and give everyone an update on how I’m faring. The first part of this live stream is now available to those who missed it, so check me out as I have my first experience with Subnautica.

Keep an eye out on our social media accounts for updates of when I will be live streaming and continuing my playthrough. I hope you all enjoy my Subnautica challenge and I’ll see you on our Twitch channel!