In case you’re not aware, 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 the Google Play Store and Apple App Store that day due to security concerns and violence-related reasons. Following these incidents, Krafton released a specific version of the game in the country called Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), which was also removed from the mobile storefront again last year due to security concerns.
Following ongoing negotiations between Krafton and the Indian government, the game is now officially back. The game is on the Google Play Store again, and users can preload a package of about 800 MB. The actual server of the game is expected to be available in May , the game will be re-launched in Apple App Store.
BGMI Google Play Store Listing
According to the Play Store listing, BGMI also has new content, including a new Sand maps, a new quad bike, and some free gear rewards for completing certain events. While it hasn’t been confirmed yet, we expect the new version of the game to further reduce violence to comply with government requirements. In earlier Indian versions, blood was dyed green or yellow instead of red, and kills were renamed “done,” but that may no longer be enough. Also, we expect some sort of daily game time limit, as that’s also a government-mandated condition. Even if all the official conditions are met, Minister of State (IT) Rajeev Chandrasekhar has made it clear that this is still a trial relaunch of the game and a “three-month trial approval”. Continuing:
We’ll be looking closely at user harm, addiction, and other issues over the next three months before making a final Decision,
Talking about the offer, Krafton India CEO Sean Hyunil Sohn expressed his concern for BGMI’s relaunch in the country Enthusiasm, and say:
We are happy to announce that BGMI is now available for preloading. We’ve always worked hard to provide a seamless gaming experience for our users and are excited to welcome everyone back. We are grateful for the continued support from the authorities and our users as we aim to enhance the gaming experience for our Indian community. Source | By 1200
