What is PUBG Game Known As?
PUBG, originally known as PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, is now officially titled PUBG: Battlegrounds. This rebranding, which took place in July 2021, marks a significant shift from its initial name while maintaining the core gaming experience that players have come to love. The change reflects the expansion of the PUBG brand beyond just one specific title, encompassing various platforms and potentially, future projects. So, while the original moniker remains an important part of the game’s history, the currently recognized name for the PC and console version of the battle royale phenomenon is PUBG: Battlegrounds.
The Evolution of a Name: From PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds to PUBG: Battlegrounds
The name PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds came from the in-game username of its creator, Brendan Greene, known as “PlayerUnknown.” This name was more than just a title; it was a testament to the grassroots origins of the game that grew from a mod within another game to a fully fledged global phenomenon. However, as the game’s success grew exponentially, it became clear that the brand needed a more distinct identity. Hence, the change to PUBG: Battlegrounds was more than just a minor adjustment—it was a strategic move to elevate PUBG into a franchise encompassing various properties.
This branding strategy aims to distinguish between the original battle royale game and other games within the PUBG universe, like PUBG: New State which is another attempt at a mobile battle royale experience. This allows for the preservation of the original game’s identity while creating room for the PUBG brand to expand in the future without confusion about which game is being referred to. The decision ensured that PUBG would not just be tied to the battle royale genre, but become a broader entity with the potential for further growth into different media.
The Impact of the Rebrand
The name change to PUBG: Battlegrounds also highlighted the game’s emphasis on battle royale gameplay. It served as a reminder that the core experience of the original game, involving 100 players competing in a last-man-standing format, remains at the heart of the PUBG brand. This clear association with the battle royale aspect helped further solidify the game’s identity and connect it directly with the genre that made it so popular. Despite the name change, players continued to refer to the game as simply PUBG, which has become a testament to the powerful branding the game has achieved.
Current Status and Popularity of PUBG: Battlegrounds
Despite the rebranding and its evolution, PUBG: Battlegrounds remains a dominant force in the gaming world. It was one of the most popular games on Steam and maintained over 415,000 peak concurrent players in September 2023, showing its sustained popularity. The game’s transition to a free-to-play model further increased its accessibility and player base. This move not only brought in new players, but also incentivized former players to return and enjoy the experience again. This move also allowed the game to compete more effectively with other free-to-play battle royale games.
FAQs About PUBG and its Name
1. What is PUBG called on PC?
On PC, the game is officially known as PUBG: Battlegrounds. This is the primary title for the original battle royale experience.
2. What does PUBG stand for now?
While originally an acronym for PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, PUBG is now primarily used as the brand name. It is still associated with the original meaning in its branding, but it’s no longer used as an acronym.
3. Is PUBG: Battlegrounds free to play?
Yes, PUBG: Battlegrounds is now a free-to-play game on both PC and gaming consoles.
4. What is PUBG New State?
PUBG: New State is another attempt at a mobile battle royale game within the PUBG universe. It is separate from the main PUBG: Battlegrounds title.
5. How did PUBG become so popular?
PUBG gained popularity through a double-dip marketing strategy, involving giving the game to streamers for play on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube, which then created a viral hype among the viewers and gamers.
6. Is PUBG addictive?
Yes, PUBG is known for being extremely addictive, which has led to various health and behavioral issues among some users and its banning in several countries.
7. Is PUBG still popular in 2023?
Yes, despite its release in 2017, PUBG: Battlegrounds continues to be one of the most popular games, with hundreds of thousands of concurrent players in 2023.
8. What is the cost of PUBG?
PUBG: Battlegrounds is free-to-play, allowing players to access the base game at no cost.
9. Which country owns PUBG?
PUBG was designed and developed in South Korea by Bluehole, now known as Krafton. However, Tencent, a Chinese company, holds a 10% stake in Krafton, and the mobile version was developed by Tencent.
10. Why was PUBG banned in some countries?
PUBG was banned in some countries like India due to concerns regarding data privacy and the perceived threat to national security and public order due to its links to Chinese companies.
11. What games are similar to PUBG?
Games similar to PUBG include Call of Duty: Mobile and Fortnite, which also offer a battle royale experience.
12. Who created PUBG?
PUBG was created by Brendan Greene, often referred to as “PlayerUnknown.”
13. How long does a PUBG match last?
Each match of PUBG typically lasts about 30 minutes.
14. Is PUBG difficult to play?
PUBG is considered to be more difficult compared to other battle royale games because of its realism-focused approach with weapon recoil and other realistic game mechanics, but it is easy to learn.
15. Is PUBG better than Fortnite?
The choice between PUBG and Fortnite depends on personal preference. Fortnite is known for its fun, colorful, and casual gameplay with lots of silly humor, while PUBG focuses on realistic combat, accurate weapons, and a military atmosphere.
By addressing these common questions, players and fans of PUBG can gain a clearer understanding of its current identity, history, and place within the gaming landscape. The transition from PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds to PUBG: Battlegrounds not only refines the brand but also reflects the continuous evolution of this gaming phenomenon.