If you are not in the know, the popular PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS (PUBG) franchise has had a lot of problems with the Indian government. The original version of the game was banned and removed from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store later in the day due to security concerns and violence-related reasons. These events were then followed up 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 stores last year, again due to security concerns.
Now the game is officially back, following ongoing negotiations between Krafton and the Indian government. The game is back on the Google Play Store and users can pre-load the approximately 800MB package. The actual game servers are expected to open on May 29, coinciding with the re-release of the game on the Apple App Store.
Google Play Store BGMI List
According to the Play Store listing, BGMI also has new content, including a new map of Nusa, a new quad vehicle, and some free clothing rewards for completing certain events. While unconfirmed, we expect the new version of the game will also contain even more subdued violence to meet government requirements. In previous Indian versions, blood was green or yellow instead of red, and kills were renamed to ‘finishes’, but this may no longer be sufficient. We also expect a daily play time limit of some sort to appear as that was also a government requirement. Even if all the official conditions are met, Minister of State (IT) Rajeev Chandrasekhar has already clarified that it is still a trial relaunch of the game and a “three months trial approval”. continuing to say:
We will keep a close eye on other issues related to user harm, addiction, etc., in the next three months before a final decision is made,
Speaking of quotes, Krafton India CEO Sean Hyunil Sohn expressed his excitement about the re-release of BGMI in the country and said:
We are thrilled to announce that BGMI is now available for pre-loading. We are constantly working to provide our users with a seamless gaming 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 improve the gaming experience for our Indian community.
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