One of the first battle royale games is getting a major update, as announced at The Game Awards.

On January 12, 2022, PUBG, one of the first battle royale games that popularised the genre, will shift to a free-to-play model. This revelation was revealed during The Game Awards, five years after the game was first released in early access on PC and then expanded to various platforms.

PUBG will gain an optional premium account upgrade named Battlegrounds Plus as a replacement for the premium model. This one-time payment gives you access to a number of extra features that aren't available with a free Basic membership.

The features provided with the Battlegrounds Plus upgrade include the following:
Bonus 1,300 G-COIN
Survival Masters XP + 100 percent boost
Career - Medal tab
Ranked Mode
Custom Match functionality

The Captain's Camo kit, which comprises a cap, camo mask, and camo gloves, is available in-game.

Those who purchased a copy of PUBG will receive a content package called the PUBG - Special Commemorative pack as a reward for their patience during the changeover. This includes an automatic Battleground Plus account upgrade, as well as a variety of cosmetic prizes like an exclusive costume, a new skin for their trusty pan, and a new nameplate.
“The game has grown substantially since we brought it to early access nearly five years ago, and we believe it offers one of the best values in gaming," said Krafton CEO CH Kim. "Whether it’s the game’s eight unique maps, consistently updated features or engaging in-game partner activations, transitioning to F2P is the next step in our journey to widen the scope of the PUBG IP through content that both new and veteran players will love.”

The upgrade to Battlegrounds Plus comes at the cost of $12.99 or your regional equivalent. What are your thoughts on this shift to a free to play model? Personally, while it’s certainly an understandable move, what it has set aside in the Battlegrounds Plus upgrade did raise an eyebrow. Having to pay for access to Ranked playlists and custom games seems a bit much, surely.