In the popular Battle Royale PUBG (PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds), it is time for changes. These will affect the maps and their loot distribution as well as appearance. A rework is on the way.
Why are the maps being revised? The developers of PUBG are working to make the maps and their loot more appealing to players. The first map to be tackled is Erangel. This is the map with which PUBG originally started.
Players had already suspected this overhaul before the official announcement. A leak of an alternative version of the PUBG map Erangel surfaced a few days ago and was actively discussed in the community. However, the developers say that this leak does not represent what Erangel is yet to become.
What is changing? As the work is still ongoing, there are no changes set in stone. Part of the overhaul includes adding new buildings and groups of buildings.
The PUBG team adds:
We are aware that well-balanced loot is an important part of the game, but the nature of the maps is also important, so we are testing all changes carefully until we reach a point that feels good.
Statement on PUBG.com
With this, they probably want to reassure players who were already worried after the leak that PUBG would make half-hearted changes to the map and wants to alter the popular classic map.
A top comment on Reddit during the leak was: “Please don’t make Erangel like Vikendi. Erangel only needs minor loot buffs and some improvements in topology at a few spots. Not a million buildings. PLEASE DO NOT RUIN ERANGEL.”
When will the new Erangel map be playable? It is not possible to say exactly at this point. In the announcement, the PUBG team writes that they plan to begin “testing the revised Erangel map in a few weeks.” As soon as there are more detailed information on this, we will report on it.
How players are reacting to the announcement: On Reddit, players show mixed reactions. They are curious about the change but want Erangel to not fundamentally change. They worry that the map will not feel the same as they are used to.
“I think it’s good of PUBG Corp. to provide an official statement sooner rather than later. Still, please ensure that Erangel remains true to its roots after the rework.”
Players hope for small improvements here and there. New buildings should not always utilize the same look. Some of the last locations, when the circle gets very small, could become tactically more interesting with new buildings.
Nonetheless, the fear remains that too many changes could “ruin” the map.
Where would you like to see changes to Erangel? Or should everything stay as it is?
On the “new” map, you will surely meet streamers:
