How to get a depth module tadpole upgrade in Subnautica 2

Getting a depth module in Subnautica 2 increases your tadpole submarine’s depth resistance and lets you explore further without having to worry about finding oxygen spots. However, you’ll reach the tadpole’s limits before you find the module, and if you’re not looking around, it’s possible to miss this essential upgrade. You’ll need some new materials to craft the device needed to make the mod, though, so it’ll take a little bit of gathering before you can outfit your tadpole.

Below, we show you where to find the depth module tadpole upgrade in Subnautica 2 and how to craft it.

[Ed. note: Before you dive in, be sure to open the character menu and enable all landmark signals. This will make it easier to spot the locations mentioned in this guide.]

Where to find the depth module tadpole upgrade in Subnautica 2

The depth module blueprint is near Ruby’s second blackbox, though not by the actual box. The entrance to the cavern is 270 meters southeast of the Alien Ruins marker, and as it’s full of needler mangoes, we recommend bringing some flares along to distract them. Otherwise, you’ll have to spend most of your time here dodging their projectiles. They don’t do much damage, but it’s still annoying.

Anyway, ignore the blackbox signal for now. 50 meters north of the signal is the wreckage of Ruby’s tadpole, and in front of that is a device with the module blueprint. Interact with it, and you can craft the depth module back at your base — once you have the right equipment. Scan the tadpole chassis as well. Once you scan two more of them, you’ll unlock another upgrade for the tadpole.

How to craft the depth module tadpole upgrade in Subnautica 2

Image: Unknown Worlds/Krafton via Polygon

You need a modification station to craft mods. Building one requires:

Then for the depth module, you need:

• 2 enameled glass (you make that with glass and creature enamel)
• 3 celestine
• 1 system chip

Image: Unknown Worlds/Krafton via Polygon

Once you craft the module, approach your tadpole. The modification hatch is behind the slot where the power cell goes, though you might get a “requires an unknown tool” message or a prompt to repair the tadpole. Ignore that, and interact with the hatch. Slot your mod in, and you’re good to go.

The depth module lets you dive down to 450 meters before the hull starts taking damage, so that’s an extra 200 meters of depth. It’s enough to let you explore the area around the Alien Ruins without having to leave your tadpole.

If you’re starting out in Subnautica 2, we have a plethora of guides to help you navigate the deep blue sea. Our Subnautica 2 beginner’s guide will set you off in the right direction and our base building tips will assist in planning out your sprawling base. Don’t forget to stock up on food and water, too. (And if you want to get fancy with your food, you’ll want salt!)

If you need help finding materials, we explain how to get the sonic resonator, which you’ll want to mine tons of materials. We have guides on where to find these resources, like lead, sulfur, copper, quartz, and gold.