Hello players,

As we wrap up our second live episode of PUBG Care Package, we'd like to send a heartfelt thank you for the support you've shown us during the live broadcast.

And for those who couldn't catch us live, the VOD is now available, featuring in-depth in-game insights and anti-cheat content. Don't miss it!

Below, you can also find a concise summary of the highlights.

Gameplay

AUG and Dragunov

Following the rate of fire modification, the AUG's usage rate stands at roughly 29%, with a win rate nearing 53%. Given its dominant performance, we've decided to readjust its performance in the #26.2 update.

Conversely, the Dragunov displays a usage rate of around 9% and a win rate close to 45.7%. While it remains a choice pick among esports and high-tier players, our goal is to refine this weapon, making it more approachable for the broader player base.

Map Rotation

Map preferences differ significantly, not only by region but also among players within the same server. While Erangel is the preferred choice for larger maps, Sanhok's popularity sees variations across regions. Catering to such diverse tastes presents its challenges.

However, we're committed to accommodating regional preferences by adjusting the map rotation schedule. We're in active discussions about the best approach. Given the emphasis on fast matchmaking in PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, options like removing the rotation system or offering every map aren't viable. Our long-term strategy is centered on enhancing the quality of each map.

Tactical Gear

Following the announcement of the updated Tactical Gear based on player feedback, we had decided against implementing it on the Live Server. Our primary motive for introducing it to the #26.1 Test Server was to collect player insights - regrettably, we acknowledge that our communication regarding this action might not have been as clear as intended.

Test Server

We acknowledge the feedback suggesting that the gap between the Test Server's launch and the Live Server update feels too tight. Additionally, we recognize concerns regarding the Test Server's download size. We're consistently re-evaluating the role and operation of the Test Server - and moving forward, we'd like to open the Test Server primarily for essential feature testing. We're also exploring methods to decrease its download size and potentially introduce a testing environment within the Live Server.

Recall System

We've observed diverse feedback regarding the Recall System. Some players find it challenging and new, while others highly appreciate it, suggesting its expansion across all maps. We're deliberating the best approach to refine this system. We're committed to closely listening to your perspectives and suggestions to improve this feature.

Sandstorm and Blizzard Zone

Numerous players have expressed concerns about the danger zones, particularly requesting for their removal from Esports and Ranked modes. In response to your feedback, we intend to decrease the occurrence of these zones after Phase 5. We're also aware of the concerns about receiving damage inside buildings and are working to address this.

Thermal 4x Scope

We've adjusted the Thermal 4x Scope to spawn solely in specific locations, increasing its rarity. However, we're still observing negative feedback regarding this scope. While a conclusive decision on this equipment has not been made, we are diligently reviewing it based on the feedback we've gathered.

Anti-Cheat

Current Status of PUBG Anti-Cheat

The PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Anti-Cheat Team enforces permanent bans on around 60,000 to 70,000 accounts every week. In the first half of this year, we imposed permanent bans on roughly 1.7 million accounts, marking a 39% increase compared to the same period last year. It's essential to note that this rise in bans results from enhancements in our detection capabilities and not an upsurge in the number of cheaters. Suspected cheaters constitute about 0.33% of all players, and we are continuously enhancing our Anti-Cheat measures to combat the use of illegal software.

Regarding hardware bans, there is a misconception that they are not implemented, but this is not true. Hardware bans are indeed in place, but they might not always be immediately evident to players since we sometimes place permanent bans after temporary bans. In the meantime, we've observed consistent efforts by cheaters to circumvent hardware bans. To address this issue, we introduced our own hardware ban system through Zakynthos in May 2021. Since then, we've noticed a decline in attempts to bypass hardware bans. Moreover, with the implementation of additional countermeasures in the latter half of 2022, we've witnessed a gradual decrease in related metrics throughout the latter half of this year.

We understand that not all players may immediately perceive the impact of our countermeasures, but it is clear that we've consistently seen improvements in our metrics compared to the past. In PUBG, where a single cheater can disrupt the gaming experience for many players in a single match, the impact on individual players can be substantial. We acknowledge that there is more work to be done, and we remain committed to our mission to eradicate the use of illegal software completely.

Given the sensitive nature of Anti-Cheat where security is paramount, it's difficult to share extensive details about our work with players, as this could potentially aid cheaters. Nevertheless, we are committed to maintaining open lines of communication with our players by sharing the positive changes and enhancements within PUBG Anti-Cheat.

Anti-ESP (Fog of War)

Extra Sensory Perception (ESP), the illegal software that pinpoints other players' positions, stands as one of the most frequently encountered cheating methods that disrupt fair gameplay. In our pursuit of a more comprehensive solution, we thought that it is more important to permanently disable ESP. Therefore, we have recently taken a significant step by introducing the Fog of War system. This system effectively hinders ESP users from detecting the locations of other players. Since its implementation, we have observed a substantial 70% reduction in the attack range of ESP users.

Cheating on Console

We acknowledge that on console platforms, as well as PC, some players resort to unauthorized software or keyboard and mouse usage to disrupt the integrity of fair gaming. While we persistently impose penalties on these individuals, we acknowledge that there remain areas for enhancement in our measures. To address this, we are actively enhancing our detection capabilities, drawing insights from a diverse range of data sources.

Concluding Today's Announcement

Lastly, we'd like to address a couple of misconceptions regarding PUBG Anti-Cheat. Firstly, the notion that we are engaged in selling and profiting from illegal software is entirely unfounded. Access to Anti-Cheat-related code is rigorously controlled, even among our internal staff. This makes any collaboration unfeasible.

Additionally, there's a rumor that we selectively impose bans on players based on their level, spending in PUBG, origin, or in-game currencies. We want to make it unequivocally clear that we apply bans impartially to all players, irrespective of these factors.

For a more comprehensive discussion about Gameplay and Anti-Cheat including unauthorized programs both past and present, measures to prevent cheaters from entering the game, false bans, and our ban criteria, be sure to watch the VOD above. We'll also be keeping you updated about the state of Anti-Cheat and our forthcoming plans through our Anti-Cheat Dev Letters.

See you in the next episode!

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Team