Obsidian Entertainment has released the largest update to Grounded 2, titled Into the Abyss, adding a significant underwater dimension to the game. The update, announced on 11 August 2026 via Xbox Wire, introduces an expansive underwater area beneath Skunk Pond, expanding the game’s core map, Brookhollow Park, and bringing new survival challenges to players on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and now PlayStation 5.
Into the Abyss invites players to explore submerged caverns and hidden landmarks, uncovering resources, collectibles, and secrets previously inaccessible in Grounded 2. The update brings a new progression system focused on underwater exploration, including crafting enhanced diving gear to increase the player’s ability to stay beneath the surface and navigate deeper into the aquatic environment.
PlayStation 5 Joins Xbox and PC Platforms in Early Access
For the first time, Grounded 2 becomes available on PlayStation 5 through an Early Access period, broadening the game’s player base beyond its initial Xbox and PC launch. Obsidian highlighted the series’ combined total of over 30 million players and anticipates welcoming new players from the PlayStation community during the development phase.
This cross-platform availability marks a notable expansion for the survival title, with PlayStation users gaining simultaneous Early Access alongside Xbox Game Pass subscribers and PC players on Steam.
New Vehicles, Creatures, and Underwater Base Building
Into the Abyss adds the amphibious Toe Biter Buggy vehicle, allowing traversal both on land and underwater. The update also enables players to build submerged bases, opening new strategic possibilities for survival and exploration below the waterline.
Combat encounters are enriched with new threats such as the amphibious Toe Biter and mechanical Catch ‘N Kill robots, alongside returning enemies like the Diving Bell Spider. These creatures enhance the underwater environment’s dangers and challenge players to adapt to new combat scenarios.
The update also expands Brookhollow Park above the pond, introducing new regions including the Bridge, Gnarly Bark, and Pergola, increasing the overall scope of the game world.
Grounded 2 remains available in Game Preview and Early Access on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Steam, with the Into the Abyss update accessible via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. The title supports Xbox Play Anywhere, enabling cross-play between Xbox and Windows platforms at no additional cost.
