Why has PUBG been removed from Play Store?
PUBG has been removed from the Play Store due to its alleged ties with Tencent Games, a Chinese internet company, which led to concerns over data privacy and national security in India, resulting in the game’s ban in 2020. The removal is part of an ongoing saga between KRAFTON, the game’s developer, and the Indian government, which has been cautious about allowing games with Chinese connections to operate in the country due to sovereignty and integrity concerns.
Background and History
The issue surrounding PUBG and its availability on the Play Store is complex and has evolved over time. Initially, PUBG Mobile was banned in India in 2020, alongside 117 other applications of Chinese origin, citing concerns that these apps were engaged in activities prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India.
Impact and Aftermath
Following the ban, KRAFTON announced the launch of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), a version of PUBG designed specifically for the Indian market, which included features such as green blood and a new account system. However, even BGMI faced removal from the Play Store and App Store, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by PUBG and its variants in the Indian market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is PUBG getting banned?
PUBG is getting banned due to concerns over data privacy and national security, particularly because of its ties with Tencent Games, a Chinese company.
2. Is PUBG available in Play Store now?
No, PUBG is not available on the Play Store currently due to the ban imposed by the Indian government.
3. Can I still download PUBG?
While the official version of PUBG may not be downloadable from the Play Store, some users have found ways to download and play the game using APKs and VPNs.
4. Is PUBG unbanned?
The original PUBG Mobile is not unbanned, but KRAFTON has launched Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) as an alternative for the Indian market.
5. Can you still play PUBG Mobile?
PUBG Mobile and PUBG Mobile Lite are banned in India, and playing them could result in account bans due to breaching security restrictions.
6. Is PUBG Mobile discontinued?
Yes, Tencent Games announced the discontinuation of PUBG Mobile services in India following the government’s ban.
7. Where is PUBG banned?
PUBG is banned in several countries, including India, due to various reasons such as data privacy concerns, addiction, and violence.
8. Why is my PUBG account banned for 10 years?
A 10-year ban can result from cheating, hacking, using third-party apps, or exploiting glitches.
9. Which country cannot play PUBG?
Several countries have banned PUBG, including China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and Nepal, each citing different reasons.
10. Why are so many games removed from Play Store?
Games are removed from the Play Store for violating Google’s policies, developer decisions, or government directives.
11. Is PUBG coming back?
KRAFTON has launched Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), which is essentially a version of PUBG designed for the Indian market, indicating a return of the game in a new form.
12. Can I play the old version of PUBG?
Yes, you can still play the old version of PUBG, but ensure your device meets the minimum requirements for a smooth gaming experience.
13. Is PUBG Mobile legal?
The legality of PUBG Mobile varies by country, with it being banned in several nations due to security and privacy concerns.
14. What will happen if I play PUBG after the ban?
Playing PUBG after the ban can result in your account being banned due to breaching security restrictions.
15. What to play after PUBG ban?
Alternatives to PUBG include Call of Duty: Mobile, Garena Free Fire, and Among Us, which have become popular among gamers looking for similar battle royale experiences.