Original Post (pubg.com)

Hello, players.

As shared in our previous Dev Letter, we're strengthening our ban policy on the use of abnormal input devices to ensure fair competition in console environments. With a more advanced detection system now giving us sufficient confidence, permanent bans will be applied to accounts confirmed to be using abnormal input devices on consoles.

Please see below for the detailed schedule.

Details

What's Changing

• Permanent bans now apply to accounts using abnormal input devices or other cheats on consoles

Affected Platforms

• Console (Xbox, PlayStation®)

Effective Date

• June 30, 2026 (Tue), 05:00 UTC

This policy applies to cheating that includes the use of mouse and keyboard signal converters (e.g., Cronus, XIM, Mix Master) and unauthorized devices that grant an unfair gameplay advantage.

The PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team will continue to apply consistent criteria to any activity that undermines fair competition across all platforms, and keep working to deliver a competitive environment that console players can experience for themselves.

Thank you.

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team

Original Post (pubg.com)

A Faster and More Intense Rondo Arrives on July 1!

Hello, players!

A new Arcade Labs experience is here. Get ready for New Blue Zone Ruleset: Rondo, where faster pacing and higher-intensity combat await.

Experience a completely different Battle Royale with Rondo's new Blue Zone ruleset and looting experience!

Developer Comment

The New Blue Zone Ruleset: Rondo Arcade Labs mode has been prepared to bring a fresh twist to the relatively slow-paced early-game combat experience often found on Rondo's expansive battlefield, while delivering faster and more intense engagements.

As one of PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS' largest maps, Rondo offers a wide variety of strategic options thanks to its expansive playable area. However, during the early phases of a match, players often spend more time looting and rotating than engaging in combat, which can sometimes lead to a slower gameplay experience.

To adjust the overall pacing of Rondo, we've introduced several core gameplay changes. Players will be able to see the first Blue Zone during the waiting phase before the start of the match. In addition, Phase 1 timings have been adjusted and item spawn rates increased to deliver a more engaging gameplay experience.

With the first Blue Zone revealed in advance and faster Blue Zone movement speeds resulting from the timing adjustments, players will need to make quicker decisions and navigate a more concentrated battlefield.

Through these changes, we aim to reduce downtime during the early game, encourage combat throughout the match, and maintain a more consistent sense of tension and excitement from beginning to end.

The gameplay data and feedback collected during this test will help inform future improvements to the Rondo experience. We appreciate your participation and look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Mode Overview

• This mode features a reduced match duration and updated ruleset, offering faster early-game engagements and a new gameplay experience.
• Go to Play > Arcade > New Blue Zone Ruleset: Rondo to enter and start matchmaking.

Key Changes

• Faster Match Flow
  • Overall match duration is reduced.
  • Phase 1 circle is immediately displayed on the map before the start of the match.
    • Plane routes are generated to intersect with or pass near the Phase 1 circle.
• Blue Zone Adjustments
  • The initial Blue Zone delay time in Phase 1 has been removed.
  • The Phase 1 circle revealed during the waiting phase is larger than before.
• Item and Vehicle Spawn Rate Adjustments
  • Item spawn rate is increased by 25%.
  • Vehicle spawn rate is increased by 25%.
• Special Zones Disabled
  •  Special Zones are not enabled in this mode.

Mode Settings

• Map : Rondo
• Perspective : TPP
• 4-Man Squads
  • Teams consist of up to 4 players.
• Maximum Players: Max. 64

Additional Notes

• Arcade Points are not granted for New Blue Zone Ruleset: Rondo play sessions.
• Does not provide XP or gameplay rewards.
• Will not be reflected in your Match History.
• Will not be reflected on the Career page.
• Does not support replays.

 

Service Period (UTC)

• PC
  • July 1, 07:00 - July 15, 00:00
• Console 
  • July 9, 07:00 - July 23, 01:00

Experience Battle Royale in a whole new way on Rondo's faster and more intense battlefield.

See you on the Battlegrounds!

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team

Hello, players.
This is the PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Anti-Cheat Team.

Before we begin, we'd like to sincerely thank everyone who loves PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS and continues to share valuable feedback to help build a fair gameplay environment.

In this Dev Letter, we'll walk you through the key anti-cheat improvements we've recently rolled out, along with our direction for what's ahead.

Everything below centers on two parallel goals: protecting legitimate players and taking firm action against cheating.

1. Stronger Ban Policy in Console Environments

To ensure fair competition on consoles, we've continuously strengthened our detection systems for abnormal input devices and related illegitimate activities.

In particular, we've focused on devices that convert signals to enable mouse and keyboard input (such as Cronus, XIM, and Mix Master), along with unauthorized devices that grant an unfair gameplay advantage, including recoil control.

As a result, we can now identify this activity with greater confidence, and we'll be applying a stronger policy under which accounts confirmed to be using abnormal input devices on consoles may be permanently banned.

• Before: Accounts confirmed to be using abnormal input devices on consoles received temporary (time-limited) bans
• After: Accounts confirmed to be using abnormal input devices on consoles will receive permanent bans

By applying far stronger criteria than the previous temporary penalties, we aim to root out repeated abnormal play and firmly ensure a fair competitive environment.

Activities that undermine fair competition will be addressed by the same criteria regardless of platform, and we'll keep working to deliver improvements console players can feel firsthand.

The strengthened console ban policy will be applied as soon as possible, and a separate notice will be provided once it takes effect.

2. Improved Unban Policy for Account Theft Victims

Alongside our efforts against cheating, the PUBG Anti-Cheat Team is also improving policies to protect players who were unfairly banned due to account theft.

We're strengthening our existing unban policy for account theft so that the number of unbans available now depends on whether a secondary password is set. This protects players who actively use security measures while encouraging those who haven't set a secondary password to enable one.

• Accounts with a secondary password set: One unban per half-year, per account (up to twice per year)
• Accounts without a secondary password: One unban per lifetime, as before

We're also preparing additional relief for accounts that suffered account theft before the secondary password feature was introduced and have already used their one unban.

• If this applies to you, you can submit a request through Player Support (link) for your case to be examined again. We'll re-examine whether the account was actually stolen, one time only.
• If the review confirms the account was genuinely stolen, the ban will be lifted. If not, the case won't be reviewed again.

A secondary password not only helps during the recovery process after account theft, but more importantly, prevents it from happening in the first place. Please set one to keep your account protected.

The specific rollout schedule will be shared in a separate notice.

3. Use of Unauthorized Third-Party Programs

We've recently identified various unauthorized third-party programs being used to assist gameplay.

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS is committed to an environment where every player competes fairly under the same conditions. Accordingly, displaying information the game doesn't provide, altering the UI without authorization, or abnormally accessing the game client or its processes to collect data are all subject to penalties.

Under this policy, unauthorized third-party programs are penalized regardless of their name or form, and the PUBG Anti-Cheat Team is actively detecting and monitoring them. Use of any third-party program that we don't officially provide or permit may result in penalties including account suspension without prior warning, so we ask that these programs not be used.

Developer Commentary

The Anti-Cheat Team maintains strict principles against all forms of cheating to provide a fair play environment for PUBG. At the same time, protecting legitimate players is just as important to us as firmly cracking down on cheating.

We've been paying close attention to what players have told us through the community and Player Support about ban accuracy, and we're refining our detection and verification systems to spare legitimate players any unnecessary disruption.

We'll also be rolling out a series of new system improvements after July, aimed at strengthening protection for legitimate players. With these, we intend to keep our measures on cheating just as firm while strengthening safeguards for fair players even further.

We'll continue to listen to your feedback and keep working to build a fair, trustworthy place to play.

 

Thank you!

We'll see you in the next Dev Letter.

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Anti-Cheat Team

The PUBG Nations Cup 2026 is a tournament where national teams from the strongest PUBG nations face off against each other. PNC 2026 takes place at PUBG Seongsu (Survival Stage) and Jangchung Arena (Grand Finals) in Seoul, South Korea.

Useful Links

Event Tracker - PNC 2026 | Liquipedia - PNC 2026 | Twire - Leaderboards | Twire - Matches

Format

Survival Stage:

• 16 teams
  • 12 teams ranked 9th-24th in PNC 2025
  • 4 newly participating teams
• 10 matches (5 matches per day)
• Top 8 qualify to Grand Finals
• Bottom 8 are eliminated

Grand Finals:

• Top 8 teams from PNC 2025
• Top 8 teams from Survival Stage
• 15 matches (5 matches per day)
• Team in 1st place will become the Champions of PNC 2026

A base prize pool of $500,000 USD will increase with crowdfunding from the PNC 2026 in-game items. The final prize pool will be spread among the participating teams based on the final tournament results.

There are also special prizes for the Grand Finals MVP, Grand Finals Match Winners, and the Kill Leader team, for a total of $100,000 USD.

PNC 2026 is played on patch 41.2 with v6.0.0 of SUPER.

The full PNC 2026 rulebook can be found here.

Teams

Here are all of the participating teams, their rosters and starting stages.

🇦🇷 Argentina	🇦🇺 Australia	🇧🇷 Brazil	🇨🇦 Canada
Survival Stage	Survival Stage	Grand Finals	Survival Stage
Dr4ftk1NG	TGLTN	sparkingg	Kaymind
emikxz	monty	Tny7	f1nna
Capitan	luke12	bielmtcalmo	Shinboi
PIPAA	Fludd	zkrakeN	Adam
(C) TecTH0R	(C) Xtreme	(C) Rds	(C) didz
🇨🇳 China	🇹🇼 Chinese Taipei	🇩🇰 Denmark	🇫🇮 Finland
Grand Finals	Survival Stage	Survival Stage	Survival Stage
Lilghost	lunlun	Gustav	curexi
Tiantian	X1no	Beami	iExE
SpaceMan	Upchen	Ketter	SkaV
xwudd	Savior	Mikzenn	s4tta
(C) Akuma	(C) Leo	(C) Avnqr	(C) Kova1evy
🇩🇪 Germany	🇮🇳 India	🇮🇩 Indonesia	🇯🇵 Japan
Grand Finals	Survival Stage	Grand Finals	Survival Stage
ItzzChrizZ	Trnsluc3nt	Setsunaa	G0ni1
PaiinZ	SniPauL	tRycKK	Runax
ares	Unforgiven	QueenV3WHL	Feaven
Justus	TuhinMAX10	Jekzy	Sunnys1de-up
(C) Kowo	(C) Ryzn07	(C) RDK	(C) Kein
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan	🇰🇷 Korea	🇲🇾 Malaysia	Neutral
Survival Stage	Grand Finals	Survival Stage	Survival Stage
Ermaak	Seongjang	Shen	BatulinS
iamf1ve	Gyumin	AJ	Lev4nte
210	Heaven	empt	ADOUZ1E
Verstory	Heather	SlyDD	Lu
(C) Hoba	(C) PLIKHE	(C) Pasha	(C) TheTab
🇳🇴 Norway	🇵🇭 Philippines	🇹🇭 Thailand	🇹🇷 Türkiye
Survival Stage	Survival Stage	Grand Finals	Survival Stage
jeemzz	alec	Belmoth	Codemarco
Himan	AljnBOTz	Scappy	Shilla
Aitzy	CeeJay18	KISS	Celtik
Tekkerz	Eyaaa	TiGGER	Metebey
(C) FAENOTTO	(C) Burninggg-	(C) RUSHIIE	(C) ctrkN
🇺🇦 Ukraine	🇬🇧 United Kingdom	🇺🇸 United States	🇻🇳 Vietnam
Survival Stage	Survival Stage	Grand Finals	Grand Finals
Hakatory	TeaBone	Shrimzy	Delwyn
boost1k-	Fexx	Kickstart	Himass
DIFX	mykLe	CowBoi	TanVuu
Feyerist	Vard	PurdyKurty	Sololzy
(C) ALREIN	(C) MiracU	(C) GUNNER	(C) DjChip

Schedule

PNC 2026 takes place June 23-28.

Survival Stage: June 23-24

Grand Finals: June 26-28

Every tournament day begins at 3am PDT / 6am EDT / 11am BST / 12:00 CEST / 19:00 KST.

Check out the Event Tracker for more details.

Talent

Meet the folks bringing you all the action on the English broadcast, live from Seoul!

• James "Kaelaris" Carrol
• Matt "Matrym" Oates
• Mark Power
• Darren "GibsonCasts" Gibson
• Dong Soo-hang "Bella"

Watch

Here's where you can watch the tournament:

• Twitch - Main Stream
• Twitch - Map Stream
• YouTube
• Player POVs (Grand Finals Only)

Other Resources

Fantasy & Event Pass

PUBG Fantasy is a fantasy league where you build a roster based on real PUBG esports results. Select teams within your budget to create your dream roster and earn Fantasy Points based on their performance. If you do well, you'll get G-Coin!

The PNC 2026 Event Pass lets you get tournament-themed in-game items by completing in-game missions.

Learn more here.

Subreddit Resources

• Check out the subreddit sidebar to know exactly when each tournament day is happening. Also check out the Event Tracker for quick access to the whole schedule and all necessary information.
• Discuss the current tournament day and find all necessary information in our daily discussion threads posted on r/CompetitivePUBG during the tournament!
• Support your favorite team by setting a user flair! Click the "edit user flair" button on the r/CompetitivePUBG subreddit sidebar.

Original Post (pubgesports.com)

This summer, the PUBG Esports calendar gains another international stage. Games of the Future (GOTF) Astana 2026 will feature PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS as its Battle Royale title, bringing 16 invited pro teams to Astana, Kazakhstan from July 31 to August 2, 2026.

Organized by Phygital International and operated in partnership with KRAFTON Esports, GOTF 2026 joins the EWC and PGS Circuit 3 as part of what is shaping up to be the busiest PUBG Esports summer yet.

Key Highlights

• First time PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS is featured at GOTF, taking over the Battle Royale slot for the 2026 edition
• 16 invited pro teams from regions around the world
• $1,000,000 prize pool
• Finals held July 31 – August 2 on-site in Astana, Kazakhstan
• Part of the 2026 PUBG Esports summer calendar, alongside EWC and PGS Circuit 3

What is GOTF?

Games of the Future is an annual international multisport competition produced by Phygital International, combining physical sports disciplines with digital gaming titles. The 2025 edition took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, featuring 11 disciplines and a $5M total prize pool. The 2026 edition moves to Astana, Kazakhstan, with 8 diciplines and a total prize pool of $4.75M — and for the first time, the Battle Royale title will be PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS.

The full GOTF 2026 lineup includes Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, Phygital Shooter, Phygital Dancing, Phygital Fighting, MOBA Mobile, MOBA PC, and Battle Royale (PUBG).

A New Summer Stage for PUBG Esports

GOTF 2026 Battle Royale is a third-party event, sitting outside the first-party PGS (PUBG Global Series) calendar. A $1,000,000 prize pool and a global spotlight in Astana make it a meaningful addition to the PUBG Esports summer.

Landing between EWC 2026 and PGS Circuit 3, GOTF expands the competitive window for teams and broadens the live-match calendar for fans. It opens another international stage in the heart of the summer — more room for pro teams to compete on a global stage, and more live PUBG action for fans between the season’s major events.

Beyond the individual event, it is a signal that the global PUBG Esports ecosystem continues to grow through both first-party and third-party opportunities.

Participating Teams

https://preview.redd.it/c304xmknpl7h1.png?width=1080&format=png&auto=webp&s=3234d57f06e6e2d282dd977de972670ad09801a1

All teams competing at GOTF 2026 Battle Royale were selected through invitation by Phygital International.

Format at a Glance

• Participants: 16 invited pro teams
• Stage: All matches played on-site in Astana, Kazakhstan
• Duration: 3 match days × 5 matches = 15 matches total
• Game mode: TPP Squad (4-player)
• Ruleset: SUPER v6.0.0 — standard placement and kill points

Match Schedule

• Match Day 1: July 31 (5 matches)
• Match Day 2: August 1 (5 matches)
• Match Day 3: August 2 (5 matches)

What’s Next

For full event details, including broadcast information, visit the official Games of the Future website: Games of the Future 2026 in Astana | $4M Phygital Championship

In Closing

GOTF 2026 Battle Royale adds another chapter to an already-packed summer for PUBG Esports. Alongside EWC and PGS Circuit 3, it brings more teams to a global stage, more live competition to fans, and another reason to rally behind the pros competing in Astana this July and August.

Thank you to the players, teams, and fans who keep the PUBG Esports community thriving worldwide. Stay tuned to official PUBG Esports channels for the latest as we approach Astana.

Original Post (pubgesports.com)

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS returns to the Esports World Cup in 2026, as 24 of the world's top clubs prepare to compete for a share of the $2,000,000 prize pool from July 21 to 26.

The Esports World Cup is one of the largest multi-title competitions in esports, bringing together the top clubs across every major title under one stage. PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS at 2026 Esports World Cup continues the title's presence at the event, building on the journey that crowned Twisted Minds as the EWC 2025 champions.

What's New for 2026

The path to EWC has changed. In 2026, seeding is determined directly by performance across the official PUBG Esports calendar — the PUBG Global Series (PGS) and the seven regional series held in the first half of the year. Every match from PGS 1 through PGS 6 fed straight into qualification.

Tournament Overview

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS at 2026 Esports World Cup

• Dates: July 21–26, 2026
• Teams: 24
• Prize pool: $2,000,000
• Stage Format
  • Group Stage
  • Grand Finals

Schedule

• July 21 — Group Stage (Groups A + B )
• July 22 — Group Stage (Groups A + C)
• July 23 — Group Stage (Groups B + C)
• July 24–26 — Grand Finals

 

Seed Allocation The 24 slots are filled through three pathways:

• Title Defender: the reigning EWC champion, Twisted Minds
• PGS Points seeds: the top 9 teams in cumulative PGS Points across PGS 1 through PGS 6
• Regional Series (PGC Points) seeds: the top 2 teams from each of the seven regional series, decided by regional PGC Points (Americas, China, EMEA, Korea, Rest of APAC, Thailand, Vietnam)

Participating Teams

https://preview.redd.it/ix6psdp3pl7h1.png?width=3240&format=png&auto=webp&s=4745413a991b22022f300a50b990c2640a13b50e

All 24 teams have been confirmed through the Title Defender seed, the PGS Points standings, and the regional series.

Title Defender

• Twisted Minds

PGS Points

• 17 Gaming
• AG.AL
• DN SOOPers
• Four Angry Men
• MiTH
• Natus Vincere
• Petrichor Road
• T1
• Virtus.pro

Regional Series (PGC Points)

• Americas: Team Falcons, Team Liquid
• China: JD Gaming, TYLOO
• EMEA: Team Nemesis, Team Vitality
• Korea: Geekay Esports, Gen.G Esports
• Rest of APAC: R8 Esports, Shadow Esports
• Thailand: FULL SENSE, Sharper Esports
• Vietnam: GAM Esports, The Vicious Esports

The full lineup is set. The road to EWC 2026 leads to July.

Follow Along

For more on PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS at EWC 26, visit the official EWC event page: PUBG: Battlegrounds | Esports World Cup

Original Post (pubg.com)

42.1 Highlights

https://preview.redd.it/18jprdh6hl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=75df58eafdc8fcc018e286bb7a713d8f2a0ec5c3

Patch Report #42.1 | Interactive Smoke, SLR & Blue Zone Rebalance, and more

Live Maintenance Schedule (UTC)

※ The times shown below are subject to change.

• PC: June 17, 00:00 - 08:30 
• Console: June 25, 01:00 - 09:00

Map Service

Check out the Map Service Report - Update 42.1 for the latest info on regional map preferences and rotations!

※ Please note that the features and updates described below are subject to change or removal due to issues such as bugs, in-game problems, and community feedback. The images are intended as visual references only; the actual game may look different as the builds are continually developed and refined before release.

(PC) New Mode: Ally Duo

NVIDIA ACE | PUBG Ally Co-Playable Character Demo - Seoul GeForce Gamer Festival

https://preview.redd.it/8qef222bhl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=be1b0798dadf21a7a04438d90d3ef89bc781f442

Mode Overview

• You're not dropping into the Battlegrounds alone this time. Team up with your new companion, Ella, and fight your way through Sanhok together. Coordinate, communicate, and lead your duo to victory!
• Go to Play > Arcade > Ally Duo to enter and start match.

Service Period (UTC)

• PC : June 17, after live server maintenance - July 1, 07:00
  • Ally Duo is a limited-time beta mode.

Requirements

• All requirements below must be met to access this mode.
  • The mode is only available on PCs equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPU.
  • If an NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPU is not detected, the mode cannot be accessed and the Play button will be disabled.
  • Minimum Specifications: RTX 2080 TI or 3060 / VRAM 8GB / RAM 16GB
  • Recommended Specifications: RTX 4070 / VRAM 12GB / RAM 24GB
  • NVIDIA driver: 555.85 or later
  • Windows Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling enabled
  • Windows Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling must be enabled.
  • Please restart your PC after enabling the feature.
    • Settings → System → Display → Graphics → Default Graphics Settings
  • A system restart is required for the setting to take effect. Failure to restart may prevent the mode from functioning properly.
  • Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling is disabled by default on some Windows 10 systems. Please enable the feature and restart your PC before playing.
  • You must accept the Terms of Service when prompted after clicking Play button.
  • Players may access the mode at any time by reopening the prompt and selecting Agree.

Mode Settings

• Map : Sanhok
• Perspective : TPP
• Team Mode : Duo
  • Matchmaking begins as solo. After entering the match, you play as a duo with Ella.
• Maximum Players: Max 64 (Players, Ella, Bots)

Additional Notes

• The language Ella speaks is determined by your client language setting.

Client Language	Ella Language
Korean	Korean
Chinese (Simplified)	Chinese (Simplified)
All other languages	English

• Some features and items on the Sanhok map are disabled.
• Spectating, death cam, and replay features are disabled.
• Ella cannot drop independently and will always follow the player's drop.
• If you die or leave the match, Ella will also leave the match.
• Reconnecting is not supported if you disconnect during gameplay.
• Voice Chat
  • Voice chat with other players is disabled. You can communicate only with Ella.
  • For smooth communication with your duo teammate Ella, turn up your voice input volume and keep your microphone close.
  • If Ella's responses feel delayed, try lowering your graphics settings or resolution.
  • Set the Voice Chat Channel to 'Team Only' and the Voice Input Mode to 'Push to Talk'.
  • These settings are fixed while playing Ally Duo.
  • Press and hold the voice input key to speak, then release the key to send your message to Ella.

※ Ella's knowledge is based on game information available prior to Update 41.1. As a result, Ella may have limited knowledge of content introduced or updated after May, including the Tilted Grip, Hybrid Scope, and other recent gameplay or event changes.

[Link to Ally AI Safety & Responsibility]

KR : https://wstatic-prod-boc.krafton.com/common/content/news/20260615/UnNDinFx/Safe_and_Responsible_AI_Ally_KR.pdf

EN & Other Languages : https://wstatic-prod-boc.krafton.com/common/content/news/20260615/CmOpiwel/Safe_and_Responsible_AI_Ally.pdf

CN : https://wstatic-prod-boc.krafton.com/common/content/news/20260615/xIQE4bID/Safe_and_Responsible_AI_Ally_CN.pdf

New Blue Zone Ruleset: Rondo

A faster and more intense Rondo arrives on July 1!

This new Arcade LABS mode is designed to deliver denser combat across Rondo's vast landscape. With a shortened match timeline and a new Blue Zone ruleset, players can look forward to a faster-paced and more action-packed Battle Royale experience.

For more details, please check out the upcoming New Blue Zone Ruleset: Rondo announcement.

https://preview.redd.it/ritu4s3ihl7h1.png?width=966&format=png&auto=webp&s=e05243266a58365176275aa458fca52cb89b907f

Service Period (UTC)

• PC : July 1, 07:00 - July 15, 00:00
• Console : July 9, 07:00 - July 23, 01:00

Gunplay

SLR

• Horizontal recoil decreased by approximately 10%.
• Muzzle Velocity : 840m/s → 870m/s
• Reduced vertical recoil buildup during the early and mid stages of sustained fire.
  • Slightly increased vertical recoil recovery.
• Reduced the weapon's tendency to drift left during firing.

Developer's Comment

The SLR has been adjusted in Update 42.1 to provide a more stable shooting experience by reducing recoil control burden and increasing muzzle velocity. In particular, we've significantly increased muzzle velocity, one of the most important factors affecting DMR performance. This makes it easier to engage moving targets at long range while also reducing bullet drop.

We've also reduced the weapon's tendency to pull to the left during sustained fire, making it more reliable and effective in medium- to long-range engagements. Through these adjustments, we hope the SLR will more consistently deliver the powerful damage output and rapid follow-up shot potential that define its identity.

https://preview.redd.it/2fclvyfjhl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=e30b110cd6c03e6fae577f721ffca40828a845f5

VSS

• Removed unused attachment-related visual elements from the VSS.

Weapon Spawn Changes

• The following weapons have been removed from world spawns. (Link to prior announcement)
  • Mosin Nagant
  • R45
  • DP-28
  • PP-19 Bizon
  • P1911
  • QBU

Ranked

Season 42

Season 42 will run longer than usual as we prepare for a broader Ranked Revamp planned for the future. As mentioned in the 2026 Roadmap, we are currently redesigning the overall Ranked season structure to establish Ranked as a more meaningful seasonal competitive experience. In addition, with the introduction of the new RP system and other Ranked changes this season, we wanted to provide players with sufficient time to experience and adapt to the updated Ranked environment. As part of this transition, Season 42 will run for three months, from Update 42.1 through Update 42.3.

• Ranked weapon skins for the AWM have been added as Tier Rewards (permanent) for Season 42. 
• The leaderboard will reset after the live server maintenance.
• Check out your final Tier from the previous season through your Career page.

https://preview.redd.it/9lcjkarmhl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=a984053979b10581080536efdba2bc07b91e8cb6

• RP
  • To better reflect survival as a core element of Battle Royale gameplay, final placement now carries greater weight in RP calculations.
  • RP losses at higher RP tiers have been reduced, even in matches where players perform well.
  • Additional RP can now be earned by achieving high placements in consecutive matches.
  • Earn an additional 5 RP for placing in the Top 4 in two consecutive matches.
  • Earn an additional 10 RP for placing in the Top 1 in two consecutive matches.
  • Only the highest consecutive placement RP bonus will be applied.
  • Consecutive placement progress is reset at the start of a new season or when a leaver penalty is applied.
• BATTLEGROUNDS PLUS
  • The purchase method for BATTLEGROUNDS Plus has been updated. (Link to prior announcement)
  • BATTLEGROUNDS Plus can now be purchased with 500 G-Coin or 20,000 BP.
  • The 1,300 G-Coin previously included with BATTLEGROUNDS Plus has been removed.
  • All other benefits remain unchanged.
• (PC) AS Ranked Solo Added
  • Ranked service schedules may continue to be adjusted to improve service stability and overall matchmaking quality.
  • Operating Hours(UTC)
  • AS Solo(TPP) : 12:00 ~ 16:00
• Secret Rooms are now available in Ranked and Custom Matches - Esports Mode.
  • Ranked
  • Available Maps : Erangel, Miramar, Rondo, Taego
  • Custom Matches - Esports Mode
  • Available Maps : Erangel, Miramar, Rondo, Taego, Vikendi, Deston

Season 42 Rewards

Below are the rewards you'll be receiving based on your final Tier from the previous Ranked season.

https://preview.redd.it/cxb6x3kqhl7h1.png?width=972&format=png&auto=webp&s=1b4d2f915356226782d5dd4edb9ad20bcfc8fa74

• The Ranked Parachute skins, weapon skins, and Medals are permanent rewards. The rest of the obtainable rewards are available for use during a single Ranked season.
• Rewards can be found on your Inventory/Edit Profile page once Season 42 starts.
• Once Season 42 is over and the server undergoes maintenance, every reward but the Parachute, weapon skin, and Medal will be withdrawn.

Gameplay

Interactive Smoke

https://preview.redd.it/lcedeprrhl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=6e9aa0416d976c15a82341a02a3a1405aa8a7c20

Smoke can now temporarily disperse in certain situations, such as explosions and vehicle impacts. Use these interactions to reveal enemies hidden behind smoke and create new tactical opportunities on the battlefield.

This feature introduces new counterplay options and dynamic combat scenarios while enhancing immersion during engagements.

• The feature applies to all smoke generated by Smoke Grenades and destroyed Gas Cans.
• Explosions
  • Smoke will temporarily disperse when an explosion occurs within it, including explosions caused by Frag Grenades, C4, Mortars, the Red Zone, and Karakin's Black Zone.
  • The affected area varies depending on the size of the explosion.
• Collisions
  • Smoke will be pushed aside when struck by any vehicles.
  • The affected area varies depending on the vehicle's speed.
  • The Vikendi train and Emergency Cover Flare cover objects can also push smoke aside.
• Dispersed smoke will gradually refill after a short period if the Smoke Grenade duration has not yet expired.
• Only the area directly affected by the explosion or collision will be dispersed.

Starting Plane Visual Update

The visuals of the Starting Plane and Supply Plane have been updated.

https://preview.redd.it/9fjgv77thl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=4893194fc01cb0519183b88f5d7e821ff7fae0b4

• Improved material and surface detail quality.
• Added accent colors to enhance the plane's visual identity.
• The same visual improvements have been applied to Supply Planes. ※ Helicopters used on certain maps, such as Paramo, are not included in this update.

Blue Zone Revamp

The Blue Zone ruleset and damage system have been updated to improve match pacing in both Normal Match and Ranked.

Blue Zone timing and damage values have been adjusted across all modes to better support the intended gameplay flow of each mode.

For detailed goals of this update and developer commentary, please refer to the [Dev Letter] Blue Zone Revamp Announcement.

• Dynamic Blue Zone based on remaining player count has been removed.
  • Maps : Sanhok, Karakin
  • Applies to Normal Match.
• Blue Zone ruleset changes for Normal Match and Ranked & Esports apply to all 8x8 maps.
• Normal Match
  • Starting from Phase 2, Blue Zone warning times have been shortened and shrink durations have been increased.
  • Total match duration remains unchanged (28m 50s).
  • Early-game safe zone sizes have been reduced.
  • Starting from Phase 4, safe zone sizes have been increased.
  • Safe zone placement behavior has been adjusted to match Ranked.
  • Late-game safe zones will appear slightly closer to the center compared to before.
  • Red Zones, Blizzard Zones, and EMP Zones will begin earlier based on the updated timeline.
• Ranked & Esports
  • Early-game phase durations and final phase durations have been reduced.
  • Total match duration has been reduced from 32m 50s to 30m 10s.
  • Safe zone sizes have been reduced overall.
  • The land-priority safe zone placement adjustment has been removed.
  • Special Zones have been adjusted to match the updated timeline.
  • Red Zone, Blizzard Zone and EMP Zone begin earlier and have shorter overall durations.
  • Sandstorm duration and individual occurrence durations have been reduced, while movement speed has been slightly increased.
• Blue Zone damage scaling has been changed from distance-based to time-based.
  • Damage now increases based on how long players remain inside the Blue Zone.
  • The previous distance-based system has been removed from all modes and maps.
  • Applies to Normal Match, Ranked and Custom Match - Normal and Esports Mode.

Healing Item Rebalance

The weight and usability of healing items have been adjusted.

https://preview.redd.it/mmnbycwuhl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=f110120878382bbfa233db1c1878f3d7d0757665

• Med kit
  • Weight : 20 → 15
  • Usage Time : 8 seconds → 6 seconds
• Bandages
  • Healing Amount : 10 → 12
  • Healing Duration : 5 seconds → 3 seconds
  • Usage Time : 4 seconds → 3 seconds
  • Bandage healing intervals while using EMT Gear have been adjusted to allow health recovery to complete more quickly.
• Adrenaline Syringe
  • Weight : 20 → 15
• Painkiller
  • Weight : 10 → 6
• Boost Gauge
  • Health regeneration now occurs at shorter intervals.
  • Total healing amount remains unchanged.

Developer's Comment

Healing item usage has historically been concentrated around a small number of items due to differences in efficiency and convenience. With this rebalance, we adjusted both weight and usability to ensure each healing item serves as a meaningful option in different situations.

We reduced the carrying burden of healing items overall and improved the effectiveness and usability of Bandages, allowing players greater flexibility when managing healing resources. We also adjusted the health regeneration interval provided by the Boost Gauge so that players can more clearly feel its effects while maintaining the same total amount of healing.

This update is focused on expanding the usefulness of healing items and increasing meaningful choices during looting. We will continue monitoring healing item usage patterns and gameplay experiences to determine whether additional adjustments are needed.

Misc.

• Smoke Performance Improvements
  • Optimized smoke rendering and particle effects to reduce some of the performance impact caused by smoke deployment.
• Pickaxes have been removed from Emergency Support Flare in Sanhok and can no longer be obtained on the map.
• As part of motorcycle physics interaction improvements, knocked-over motorcycles can no longer be stood upright while a player is standing on them.

Arcade

Intense Battle Royale

※ The following updates apply to Custom Match as well.

Experience Intense Battle Royale in Haven's uniquely dense combat environment.

• Haven has been added to the map pool.
• Blue Zone settings and the default spawn kit remain unchanged from existing Intense Battle Royale matches.
• Only motorcycles will spawn on the map.
• The contents of Emergency Supply Drops have been adjusted to better fit Haven's map size.

UGC: Racing Mode

Rev your engines and get ready to race to the finish line!

Create your own racing experiences using a variety of devices and vehicle settings. From traditional races and obstacle courses to time trials and combat racing, you can now build a wide range of vehicle-based game modes in UGC.

• New devices have been added for racing mode creation, including Checkpoints, Stopwatches, and Billboards.
• New options have been added to the existing Vehicle Spawn Device, allowing creators to build a wider variety of vehicle-focused content.
  • Vehicle performance can now be customized through the Vehicle Spawn Device, including torque, RPM, weight, and more.
• The Spare Tire item has been added.
• A Basic Racing sample mode has been added to help creators get started.
  • Use the sample mode to quickly learn and create your own racing experiences.

Vehicles

• The lobby animations for two Harley-Davidson™ motorcycle special vehicle skins have been improved.
  • The Special Exhaust Backfire effect for the CVO™ Road Glide® ST (Limited) and CVO™ Road Glide® ST motorcycles have been enhanced for a more natural appearance.
  • A new pulsing effect has been added to the CVO™ Road Glide® ST (Limited) motorcycle.

UX/UI

Voice Chat UI Improvements

The Voice Chat UI has been improved.

• The Voice Chat UI is activated when two or more players are participating in voice chat.
• The Voice Chat UI is displayed in the upper-left corner of the screen.
• Only players who are currently speaking are displayed, while inactive players are hidden from the list.
• When multiple players are speaking simultaneously, the most recent speaker is displayed at the top of the list.
• If you are muted, your mute status will always be displayed at the top of the list.
• Other players' mute statuses are not displayed.
• The improved Voice Chat UI will be applied to supported out-game screens, while both the existing and improved Voice Chat UI will be available in-game.

Customize Improvements

Various usability improvements have been made to Customize, along with fixes for several UI and text-related issues.

• A new option has been added to the ‘Utility’ tab, allowing up to 10 items to be opened at once via the right-click context menu.
• Character rotation is now preserved while browsing outfit skins in the ‘Character’ tab.
  • Rotation is also preserved when previewing items such as characters, weapons, emotes, and Contender items.
• Weapon Charms can now be equipped immediately upon entering the ‘Charms’ menu in the ‘Weapons’ tab.
• Weapon Charms can now be equipped to all weapons from the ‘Charms’ menu in the ‘Weapons’ tab.

Misc.

(PC) Controller Support

Controller support has been added to the PC version of PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS.

• Players can now play PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS using a supported controller.
  • PlayStation DualSense® and PlayStation DualShock® controllers are not supported.
• A notification will be displayed when an input device change is detected.

Workshop

New item sets have been added to the Hunter's Chest and Archivist's Chest.

https://preview.redd.it/rvcwkim0il7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=43229fe79be0a1bb4d4b8cf081af6d8a0b63ce67

• Beary Cozy Bear
• Survivor Pass: Wild Things

Workshop : Black Market 2026

After lighting up the Battlegrounds in previous years, we’re happy to announce that the Black Market 2026 returns with a refreshed experience! Following our previously announced 2026 Roadmap, the ‘Double Gacha’ system in Workshop has been removed, making it easier than ever to jump in and enjoy everything the Black Market has to offer. Fan-favorite Progressive weapon skins and a variety of exciting rewards await in this year's Black Market.

• Workshop Revamp : Black Market 2026 Cargo
  • Black Market 2026 introduces major changes to the Workshop experience. With Update 42.1, the Workshop probability structure has been revamped for Black Market 2026. The previous structure involving Loot Caches and Prime Parcels has been removed, allowing players to obtain Progressive weapon skins and various other rewards directly from a single Cargo in a more intuitive way.

Stay tuned for the upcoming Black Market 2026 announcement for full details!

https://preview.redd.it/zfk3v5u1il7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=f862b20203b5f9d531148bc40cb9fdfb16241ba7

Bug Fixes

Gameplay

• Fixed an issue where executing a player using a Self-AED in the Blue Zone could be interrupted unexpectedly, causing the player to die immediately.
• Fixed an issue where players could not equip the M79 from the passenger seat of certain motorcycles with Special Vehicle Skins.
• Fixed an issue where Vending Machine devices could not be interacted with in Play mode.
• Fixed an issue where throwable weapons could pass through players riding certain motorcycles.
• Fixed an issue where the expected healing gauge was displayed incorrectly when healing a teammate with Bandages while equipped with the EMT Gear.
• Fixed an issue where scope magnification could be changed through a specific input sequence when Scope Mode was set to Hold.

World

• Fixed an issue where parts of a character's body could clip through walls in certain buildings on Erangel.
• Fixed an issue where players could gain unintended access to a Secret Room on Paramo by using a motorcycle.
• Fixed an issue where the spawn rate of Emergency Support Flare from Flare Gun Care Packages on Deston was applied incorrectly.

UX/UI

• Fixed an issue where the Medal UI was displayed incorrectly on the Match Results screen.

Items & Skins

※ Clipping issue: Graphics that are shown outside the visible part of an image/object.

• Made minor visual adjustments to the Darkest Depths - Beryl M762 Deathbox skin to address an issue where the edges of the floor appeared to flicker.
• Fixed an issue where Eve's hair was displayed incorrectly when wearing certain Headband items.
• Fixed an issue where part of the Tenebres Wrapped - AKM skin was displayed incorrectly.
• Fixed an issue where the wrist became transparent when wearing Moon Lizard's Gloves with certain PGC tops.
• Fixed an issue where the character's face was not displayed when wearing the Queenpunk Mask and the PGC 2022 Iridescent Danger - Helmet (Level 2) together.
• Fixed a clipping issue when applied Lobby Pose 4 while wearing the Harley-Davidson® Street Smart Shirt.
• Fixed an issue where incorrect text was displayed in the item name of Pawsh Poodle Nails when using Simplified Chinese.
• Fixed an issue where a rat was displayed unintentionally in the Private Gallery lobby.

Original Post (pubg.com)

Welcome to the sixth Store update of 2026.

June's Store update brings Black Market 2026, the Double G-Coin promotion, and a collection of special items celebrating PNC 2026, along with more exciting items!

New Items and Skins

※ All featured items may become available again at a later date via the Workshop, Your Shop, or other in-game features, as well as various events and promotions.

※ The sales periods shown below are subject to change.

Black Market 2026

After lighting up the Battlegrounds in previous years, we’re happy to announce that the Black Market 2026 returns with a refreshed experience! Following our previously announced 2026 Roadmap, the ‘Double Gacha’ system in Workshop has been removed, making it easier than ever to jump in and enjoy everything the Black Market has to offer. Fan-favorite Progressive weapon skins and a variety of exciting rewards await in this year's Black Market.

• Workshop Revamp : Black Market 2026 Cargo
  • Black Market 2026 introduces major changes to the Workshop experience. With Update 42.1, the Workshop probability structure has been revamped for Black Market 2026. The previous structure involving Loot Caches and Prime Parcels has been removed, allowing players to obtain Progressive weapon skins and various other rewards directly from a single Cargo in a more intuitive way.

Stay tuned for the upcoming Black Market 2026 announcement for full details!

https://preview.redd.it/oprwoilrgl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=6a280ba18e9d83c2f84a59290cad3f70e6227e34

Double G-Coin

A little extra goes a long way. The Double G-Coin Promotion is here to help you make the most of Black Market 2026!

https://preview.redd.it/izoaxm9sgl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=a3d24eafe912d0caf174231254c68f0ce0a990a6

※ Each bundle can be purchased only once per account during the sales period.

Sales Period (UTC)

• PC: June 17, after live server maintenance - June 24, 00:00
• Console: June 25, after live server maintenance - July 2, 00:00

PUBG Nations Cup 2026

Experience the excitement of PNC 2026 as national teams compete for the ultimate title. Show your support with PNC 2026 items and be part of their journey to the top.

https://preview.redd.it/lspxveptgl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=8da3ae78f171216ea71021be82e1f215ed07dc46

PNC 2026 National Team Helmet Collection (24 Items)

• Sales Period (UTC)
  • PC : June 17, after live server maintenance - July 15, 00:00
  • Console: June 25, after live server maintenance - July 23, 00:00

(PC) Event Pass: PNC 2026

※ Pass XP can be earned through completing the Event Pass missions, as well as through your survival time.

(Console) PNC 2026 Collections

• Sales Period (UTC)
  • PC : June 17, after live server maintenance - June 30, 00:00
  • Console: June 25, after live server maintenance - June 30, 00:00

Collaboration: XIAOHAI

Don't miss this special collaboration with streamer XIAOHAI! Get your hands on exclusive items featuring XIAOHAI's signature look and style.

https://preview.redd.it/b0co2xsugl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=cb1afff1cff55a43f1c58e4affb612aa07a9ed57

Sales Period (UTC)

• PC & Console : June 29, 02:00 - September 28, 00:00

PUBG - 2026 PLAYSTATION®PLUS EXCLUSIVE BUNDLE #2

The second PlayStation®Plus bundle of 2026 has just arrived! Claim yours to get Hunter’s Chests, Keys, and Contraband Coupons!

https://preview.redd.it/jezgkcxvgl7h1.png?width=1024&format=png&auto=webp&s=d907db1d4a3fe7e72d5fdededa84c3fe25ec9481

Sales Period (UTC)

• Console (PlayStation®Plus): June 30, 16:00 - August 30, 00:00

PUBG - 2026 XBOX GAME PASS EXCLUSIVE SURVIVOR PACK #2

Xbox Game Pass players can also claim Hunter’s Chests, Keys, and Contraband Coupons with the second Survivor Pack of 2026!

https://preview.redd.it/hghl65exgl7h1.png?width=1024&format=png&auto=webp&s=117d8e3147595fad28d91b9689816741b744af12

Sales Period (UTC)

• Console (Xbox Game Pass): June 30, 16:00 - August 30, 00:00

Your Shop

Your personalized shop with discounted goods is reopening this June!

https://preview.redd.it/1xjf7feygl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=d0e91dc8859a3466429b97854e376b5b8588ed7d

Sales Period (UTC)

• PC & Console: June 24, 02:00 - July 22, 00:00

■ End of Sale:  ARCHIVIST'S CHEST

From the July Store Update, Archivist’s Chest will no longer be available for purchase at Store. We would like to inform you that sales of the Archivist’s Chest will end as below.

• Items Affected
  • Archivist’s Chest
  • Archivist’s Chest Bundle
• Sales End Date(UTC)
  • PC: July 15, 00:00
  • Console: July 23, 00:00
• Please note that any Archivist's Chests currently in your Inventory will not be removed.

■ Notice on the End of Contender: Dorian Crafting

We would like to inform you that the sales and Special Crafting for Contender: Dorian, PUBG:Battlegrounds' Second Contender, will no longer be available. Please see the details below.

• End Date(UTC)
  • PC: July 15, 00:00
  • Console: July 23, 00:00
• After the dates above, sales of the Archivist’s Chest will end, and the Dorian Prime Parcel previously obtainable from the chest will no longer be available.
• In addition, Dorian Prime Parcel will be removed from the bonus contents list of any Archivist’s Chests you currently own.
• The Special Crafting > Contender Crafting: Dorian tab, which uses Artisan Tokens, will also no longer be available.
• However, Dorian Record Files will remain obtainable through other acquisition methods even after Dorian Prime Parcel is no longer available.

Thank you for your understanding.

Happy shopping!

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team

Original Post (pubg.com)

[Map Service Status Following the Map Selection Update and June Map Service Plan]

We would like to share an update on the current status of the Map Selection feature introduced to the NA, SA, EU, RU, and Console regions with Update 41.2 in May, as well as our map service plan for June.

The June map service will continue to be configured based on map preference data derived from our existing matchmaking data.

To accurately understand and analyze player preferences through the Map Selection feature, a sufficient volume of map selection data is required. While map selection rates in supported regions have continued to rise since the feature's introduction, the number of players using Map Selection remains smaller than the number of players who do not. As a result, we believe the selection rate data collected over the past four weeks is not yet sufficient to represent the preferences of the overall player base.

Accordingly, we will continue to operate the map service using our existing preference data until sufficient data has been accumulated. Once enough map selection data has been accumulated to support reliable analysis, we plan to gradually incorporate map preferences based on map selection rates into future map service decisions. We will continue to share related data and updates on our progress through future Map Service Reports.

https://preview.redd.it/nvu8zn03fl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=b92064f357d14b4f4d0bcc176566a646de396a3f

https://preview.redd.it/55jtyfn3fl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=6f917f6785d4edfe3d8fb0a0dff6e2dfc15d6924

Since the introduction of the Map Selection feature in May, many players have shared valuable feedback through community channels and in-game feedback systems. The PUBG dev team is carefully reviewing player’s feedback as we continue working to improve the map service experience. We encourage you to keep sharing your thoughts and suggestions through our various feedback channels, and we will continue striving to deliver an even better and more satisfying gameplay experience for all players.

Map Preference by Region

※ Map preference is measured through a comprehensive analysis of various factors related to map usage across all modes, including playtime, match count, select rate, and leave rate.

※ Due to rounding, the total of map preference percentages may not add up to exactly 100%.

• Map Preference Measurement Period: April 8 - June 2

https://preview.redd.it/xup84l66fl7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=3a0787f520d150c3d8bcb584fd8e559f75f18f5c

Based on the regional map preferences above, the following map rotations will be applied in Update 42.1.

Map Service

※ PC players can anticipate the next rotation every Wednesday at 02:00 UTC, while Console players can expect the same every Thursday at 07:00 UTC.

Schedule

https://preview.redd.it/1r2w9jg9fl7h1.png?width=973&format=png&auto=webp&s=2913e297141e4ead1f8fdf02a47a8d237690ab18

Normal Match

AS

https://preview.redd.it/t7nssapafl7h1.png?width=973&format=png&auto=webp&s=91850854a38a6b913128bd4f6d7d0d6c9969d364

SEA

https://preview.redd.it/vi1rv5ekfl7h1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=8e913b6ac5489ce04057cf59f9a416f5e4d88e2b

KAKAO

※ For the KAKAO platform, Erangel, Taego, and Sanhok are always included in the Fixed Map pool.

https://preview.redd.it/t7jq57jofl7h1.png?width=974&format=png&auto=webp&s=02e2f3da4d1a8cb6bdb434509db52cc284a01384

NA

https://preview.redd.it/ff2pj81tfl7h1.png?width=974&format=png&auto=webp&s=f7ebb7c44c13a3ee594c8676e67ece2a140f89f6

SA

https://preview.redd.it/u3lpccvufl7h1.png?width=972&format=png&auto=webp&s=d18fe4a5dbc64f4b9f2fb334eeae5312b5db87db

EU

https://preview.redd.it/tzhalgjwfl7h1.png?width=975&format=png&auto=webp&s=6067db8dfdf2638ac39bcef58aaf38dc589011f4

RU

https://preview.redd.it/tut2yg7yfl7h1.png?width=971&format=png&auto=webp&s=a51b6582c515cf51f1020e608a0fedcf30965c0c

Console (All Regions)

https://preview.redd.it/ytqacklzfl7h1.png?width=975&format=png&auto=webp&s=4a5f20acdf9c76510145259dcef44d85cb09d835

Ranked

• Erangel (25%) / Miramar (25%) / Taego (25%) / Rondo (25%)
• The map service for Ranked is updated on a season-by-season basis.

We’ll see you on the Battlegrounds!

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team

Original Post (pubg.com)

In this update, we are introducing a Blue Zone Revamp, one of the key systems that shapes the pace and flow of every PUBG match. The Blue Zone is more than just a mechanic that deals damage outside the safe zone. It plays a key role in shaping the battle royale experience by influencing when players move, where they position themselves, and what risks they choose to take.

The current Blue Zone ruleset has remained unchanged since April 2023, with both Normal Matches and Ranked operating under the same overall structure for an extended period of time. During that time, however, player behavior, combat patterns, and survival strategies have continued to evolve. As a result, we felt it was necessary to reevaluate whether the Blue Zone is still fulfilling its intended role within today's gameplay environment.

At its core, the Blue Zone exists to gradually restrict the playable area, encourage player encounters, and reduce the number of survivors over the course of a match. However, it should not pressure players so aggressively that meaningful strategic choices disappear. On the other hand, it should not be so lenient that it reduces the tension and intensity that define the battle royale experience. With this in mind, we have carefully analyzed long-term gameplay data and player feedback to find a balance that supports strategic decision-making while maintaining a healthy match tempo.

Our analysis showed that while the Blue Zone ruleset has remained unchanged, the overall pace of gameplay and combat has become significantly faster over time. We also found that Normal Matches and Ranked have continued to develop gameplay identities, while the existing ruleset no longer fully reflects those differences. Rather than moving both modes toward a single unified ruleset, this update focuses on adjustments tailored to each mode's unique gameplay flow. Time has been redistributed where necessary, while phases that offered excessive downtime have been adjusted to create a healthier overall pacing structure.

In addition to Blue Zone timing adjustments, this revamp also revisits the long-standing Blue Zone damage system. Alongside updates to better align match pacing with today's gameplay meta, we are introducing a new damage model that replaces the existing distance-based scaling system. Going forward, Blue Zone damage will increase based on how long players remain inside the Blue Zone, creating a more intuitive and predictable experience.

The goal of this revamp update is not simply to increase pressure or force faster engagements. Instead, we aim to create a more natural and consistent match flow throughout every stage of a match. By ensuring players have meaningful opportunities to make strategic decisions in each phase, we hope to further strengthen the unique gameplay experiences that define both Normal Matches and Ranked. Below, we'll walk through the analysis behind these changes and the key updates being introduced.

Normal Match

Under the previous Blue Zone structure on Normal Matches, safe zones became smaller while shrink times became shorter as matches progressed. Shorter shrink times meant the Blue Zone closed more quickly, causing movement pressure, combat pressure, and Blue Zone damage pressure to converge during specific stages of the match. Around Phases 5 and 6 in particular, chaotic combat frequently occurred within much smaller play spaces, even when survivor counts were comparable to those seen in Ranked.

https://preview.redd.it/91s78h4iel7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=632dcfaee90f20fd42cc063b21b4e0a2a15f2696

Players generally use warning periods to prepare for movement and engage in combat while the Blue Zone is actively shrinking. However, as matches progress into the later phases, players tend to gather additional information and delay their rotations until just before the Blue Zone begins to move. Within this gameplay pattern, the faster Blue Zone movement speed in Normal Matches often resulted in rushed entries into the safe zone. As a consequence, vehicle dependency remained high into the late game, and multiple teams frequently converged on the same locations, leading to chaotic combats.

https://preview.redd.it/wol5y0dkel7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=c16da237477fd48aad14ab7c9c4a93553e74159e

To ease this pressure, we are adjusting the existing structure of longer warning periods and shorter shrink periods. Warning times will be reduced slightly, while shrink times will be extended to slow the overall pace of Blue Zone movement and provide more space for late-game engagements. Through these changes, we aim to create a smoother combat flow and a more stable late-game environment, rather than forcing players into increasingly compressed situations.

Ranked and Esports

Ranked naturally encourages survival-focused gameplay, leading teams to establish positions inside the safe zone early in the match. As a result, we observed periods where match flow could become somewhat stagnant after looting and initial rotations were completed but before meaningful engagements began.

In addition, late-game safe zones tended to remain relatively large, while strong zone-centering adjustments made future circle locations easier to predict. This often resulted in a slower early-game pace and reduced the uncertainty and tension that safe zones are intended to create during the later stages of a match.

https://preview.redd.it/hjh0fmgoel7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=820cd2d7b16bab1d9a5c330b224ebd2f0febf2d4

To address these issues, we are adjusting the duration of certain phases to improve the overall pacing of Ranked and Esports matches. We are also reducing the strength of zone-centering adjustments to introduce greater variability in future circle locations. At the same time, competitive integrity remains a top priority. Even with these changes, some zone-centering adjustments will remain in place to ensure that late-game circles continue to form in fair and playable locations.

https://preview.redd.it/zt2p1iypel7h1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=4e8d4c6667c1437dfab34fc7b549ca82ab719c17

These updates are intended to reduce unnecessary downtime in the early stages of Ranked and Esports while creating more meaningful positional battles and strategic decision-making opportunities in the late game.

Blue Zone Damage

Finally, we are updating the way Blue Zone damage increases over the course of a match.

Previously, Blue Zone damage scaled based on a player's distance from the safe zone. While this system was designed to encourage players to remain within the playable area, its impact was largely limited to situations where players were far outside the safe zone. It also made it difficult for players to intuitively understand when and how damage values would increase.

To address these limitations, Blue Zone damage will now scale based on the amount of time spent inside the Blue Zone rather than distance from the safe zone. This change more clearly reinforces the Blue Zone's core purpose of encouraging players to stay within the safe area.

At the same time, players will still be able to make slower rotations into the safe zone during the early stages of a match. However, as the match progresses, the effects of prolonged Blue Zone exposure will become increasingly significant. As a result, strategies that rely on remaining in the Blue Zone for extended periods, such as healing items through the damage while setting up flanking opportunities, will become considerably more difficult.

Looking Ahead

Because the Blue Zone influences the overall flow of every match, we will continue closely monitoring both gameplay data and player sentiment after these changes go live.

In particular, we will be paying close attention to whether survivor counts progress as intended throughout each phase, whether appropriate player density and engagement distances are maintained within safe zones, whether the pace of movement and combat feels appropriately balanced, and whether players are taking more Blue Zone damage than intended.

Through ongoing analysis, we will evaluate how these changes affect the overall match experience and continue refining the system to ensure the Blue Zone contributes positively to PUBG's gameplay flow.

Wrapping Up

The Blue Zone is more than a system that restricts playable space. It is one of the key pillars that shapes the rhythm of movement, combat, encounters, and survival throughout a PUBG match. It influences when players move, what risks they choose to take, and how each match unfolds.

This Blue Zone revamp is not intended to limit specific playstyles or simply accelerate gameplay. Rather, it is part of an ongoing effort to ensure the Blue Zone continues to fulfill its intended role as player behavior and gameplay trends evolve. At the same time, we want to further reinforce the unique gameplay identities of both Normal Matches and Ranked.

Going forward, we will continue monitoring the Blue Zone to ensure it remains neither overly predictable nor overly restrictive. We will carefully evaluate the impact of these changes through both data and player feedback and make further adjustments where necessary.

We believe the PUBG battle royale experience continues to evolve alongside the choices, strategies, and playstyles of our players. As the game continues to evolve, we will keep refining and improving the experience to deliver matches that are more tense, fair, and strategically rewarding.

We'll see you in the next Dev Letter.

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team

PC Live servers will go down for maintenance starting:

• June 16 5:00pm PDT
• June 17 00:00 UTC
• June 17 02:00 CEST
• June 17 09:00 KST

The maintenance will take approximately 8.5 hours to complete.

PC Live servers are expected to go back up at:

• June 17 1:30am PDT
• June 17 08:30 UTC
• June 17 10:30 CEST
• June 17 17:30 KST

Once maintenance is complete, Update 42.1 will be available. The patch notes are available here.

Your favorite hiding spot is getting an update.

Vehicles, explosions, and more can now displace smoke, creating new opportunities—and new risks—on the Battlegrounds.

Coming to PC on June 17, Console on June 25.