If you are not in the know, the popular PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS (PUBG) franchise has been having plenty of problems with the government in India. The original version of the game was banned and taken down from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store way back in the day due to security concerns and violence-related reasons. Those events were then followed by the Krafton company releasing a specific version of the game in the country, called Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), which was also removed from mobile storefronts last year, once again due to security concerns.
Now the game is officially back, following ongoing negotiations between Krafton and the Indian government. The game is again on the Google Play Store, and users can pre-load the 800 MB or so package. The actual game servers are expected to open on May 29, coinciding with the game’s re-listing on the Apple App Store.
BGMI Google Play Store listing
As per the Play Store listing, BGMI has new content as well, including a new Nusa map, a new quad bike vehicle and some free outfit rewards for completing certain events. While not confirmed, we expect the game’s new version will also feature even further toned-down violence to comply with government requirements. In earlier Indian versions, blood was colored green or yellow instead of red, and kills were renamed to “finishes”, but this might no longer be enough. Also, we expect a daily playtime limit of some sort to appear since that was also a government condition. Even if all of the official conditions are met, Minister of State (IT) Rajeev Chandrasekhar already made it clear that this is still a probationary re-launch of the game and a “three-month trial approval.” going on to say:
We will keep a close watch on other issues of user harm, addiction, etc, in next three months before a final decision is taken,
Speaking of quotes, Krafton India CEO Sean Hyunil Sohn expressed his enthusiasm about BGMI’s re-release in the country and said:
We are thrilled to announce that BGMI is now available for pre-load. We are constantly working to provide our users with a seamless gameplay experience and are excited to welcome everyone back. We extend our gratitude to the authorities and our users for their continued support as we aim to enhance the gaming experience for our Indian community.
