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Looking for the next big battle royale fix? Let’s talk games like PUBG. So you’ve sunk hundreds of hours into PUBG, mastered the art of chicken dinners, and probably rage-quit more than a few matches. We’ve all been there. But maybe now you’re yearning for something fresh. You still want that heart-racing, last-man-standing thrill, but with a different vibe, new mechanics, or just a fresh map to conquer.
Well, you’re in luck, because the world of battle royale has seriously leveled up. In fact, according to Newzoo’s Global Games Market Report, battle royale titles continue to dominate the multiplayer shooter space, accounting for over 30% of total online shooter engagement globally. PUBG itself has maintained a strong user base, but the real story is the innovation happening around it.
Today’s PUBG alternatives are pushing the genre in wild new directions. Whether you’re in it for the fast-paced gunfights, the strategic squad play, or just love parachuting into chaos with a frying pan in hand, there’s something out there with your name on it. According to Statista, the gaming industry is gaining worldwide popularity, and in terms of revenue, it is expected to reach $522.46 billion by the end of 2025. This is a perfect time to find a reliable mobile app development agency.
So yeah, if you’re a PUBG veteran or just someone who lives for that rush of surviving against the odds, 2025 is the perfect time to dive into the next generation of battle royale games.
So buckle up, grab your headset, and let’s dive into the most exciting games like PUBG you can play right now.
Table Of Contents
Over 72% of Gen Z gamers say they prefer dynamic, high-stakes multiplayer games, and more than half of them actively explore new titles every quarter. If you’re in search of some action-packed games, don’t miss out on the following games like PUBG:
Genre: Battle Royale, Sandbox, Survival
Developer: Epic Games
Publisher: Epic Games
Release Date: 2017
Platform: PC (Windows, macOS), PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
If PUBG gave us tactical realism, Fortnite gave us chaos, creativity, and crossovers. And guess what? It’s still thriving in 2025. Fortnite is dominating the market with a huge 650 million registered players and around 60 million daily active users. Thanks to regular updates, live concerts, in-game events, and collabs with everything from Marvel to Stranger Things, Fortnite keeps its community hyped.
What sets it apart? The fast-paced build mechanics, colorful visuals, and ever-changing game modes make every match feel fresh. Even if you’re not a builder, the newer Zero Build mode brings it closer to PUBG’s style while keeping Fortnite’s flair. If you’re looking for a free-to-play experience with a massive player base and creative game elements, Fortnite should be your first stop.
Genre: Battle Royale, Hero Shooter
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Release Date: 2019
Platform: PC (Windows), PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
Apex Legends is the game that added slick movement, sharp gunplay, and characters with backstories to the battle royale formula. Since its launch, it’s remained one of the most polished titles in the genre. In 2025, the game averages over 100,000 concurrent players and consistently pulls in between 70K and 107K daily active players.
Respawn has kept things engaging with regular seasonal drops, map overhauls, and competitive ranked modes. Apex’s biggest strength lies in its Legends, each with unique abilities that require real team coordination, just imagine PUBG with a dash of Overwatch-style tactics. If you’re tired of bland shooters and want something with more personality and mobility, Apex is your jam.
Genre: Battle Royale, First-Person Shooter
Developer: Infinity Ward, Raven Software
Publisher: Activision
Release Date: 2020
Platform: PC (Windows), PlayStation, Xbox
If you’re looking for PUBG’s gritty realism but with smoother mechanics and cinematic action, Call of Duty: Warzone delivers in spades. Warzone remains a fan favorite in 2025, with a peak of 113,812 concurrent players and an average daily player count of over 71,000, as per ActivePlayer. And yes, the return of Verdansk brought back a massive wave of nostalgic players (GameSpot).
What sets Warzone apart is its polished gun mechanics, killstreaks, and dynamic gameplay loops. With features like Gulag 2.0, Contracts, and Resurgence modes, Warzone keeps every match intense and strategic. If you love PUBG’s tactical feel but want it faster, smoother, and with more loadout options, Warzone hits the bullseye.
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Genre: Battle Royale
Developer: Garena
Publisher: Garena
Release Date: 2017
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Garena Free Fire is one of the most played battle royale games, with over 13.17 million daily active users. Its appeal? Short matches, smooth controls on low-end devices, and loads of cosmetics and character skills.
For players who want a lightweight, fast-paced PUBG alternative on mobile, Free Fire nails it. The game’s smaller map size and 10-minute match structure make it perfect for on-the-go action. Plus, it has a huge following in regions like Southeast Asia and Latin America.
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA), Strategy, Action
Developer: Valve Corporation
Publisher: Valve Corporation
Release Date: 2013
Platform: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Dota 2 is one of the most iconic apps like PUBG, known for its complex mechanics, steep learning curve, and deeply strategic gameplay. It is the successor to the original Defense of the Ancients (DotA) mod for Warcraft III. The game features two teams of five players battling across a three-lane map to destroy the enemy’s Ancient and defend their own.
Dota 2 is also a cornerstone of the global esports sector, largely due to The International (TI), its annual championship tournament with prize pools exceeding $30 million. According to Steam Charts, Dota 2 remains one of the most-played games on Steam from regions like China, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia.
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Genre: Battle Royale
Developer: NetEase Games
Publisher: NetEase Games
Release Date: 2017
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Knives Out from NetEase might not be a household name everywhere, but in Asia, it’s a battle royale giant. The game has pulled in over $10 million in revenue worldwide, proving its commercial strength. Its stylized look, expansive maps, and squad-based gameplay give off heavy PUBG vibes, but with added polish for mobile users.
Knives Out focuses on large-scale warfare with up to 100 players, vehicular combat, and tight squad dynamics. It’s especially popular in Japan and other parts of East Asia, making it a go-to PUBG alternative for players in those regions.
Genre: Tactical First-Person Shooter
Developer: Valve Corporation
Publisher: Sierra Studios (original), Valve
Release Date: 2000
Platform: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux), Xbox
Counter-Strike 2 might not be a traditional battle royale, but its impact on tactical shooters is undeniable. And with new updates, improved Source 2 engine visuals, and experimental modes, CS2 is capturing new audiences in 2025. According to Esports Insider, the game broke records recently with 1.86 million concurrent players in April 2025.
For players who love PUBG’s slow, tactical pacing and tight gunplay, CS2 offers a more competitive, no-respawn-style gameplay. It’s Danger Zone mode (Valve’s take on battle royale) adds a small-scale survival twist that’s perfect for duos or solo players. If you want to test your aim and reflexes in a more refined environment, Counter-Strike 2 is your proving ground.
Genre: Battle Royale
Developer: NetEase Games
Publisher: NetEase Games
Release Date: 2018
Platform: PC (Windows), Android, iOS
Rules of Survival had already claimed the throne long before PUBG became the go-to title for smartphone gamers. It was developed and published by NetEase Games and became the first full-fledged battle royale game available on mobile, which gave it a major head start.
According to NetEase Games, the game racked up over 230 million downloads globally, and at one point, it had more than 150 million registered users. What made ROS unique at the time was its massive 300-player mode, dwarfing PUBG’s 100-player matches. It also featured multiple maps (Ghillie Island and Fearless Fiord), vehicles, and surprisingly smooth gameplay for low- to mid-end devices. You could squad up with friends, talk in-game via voice chat, and customize your weapons and gear, everything a PUBG fan would want, without needing a high-end PC or console.
Genre: Multiplayer Online Survival Arena (MOSA), Battle Royale
Developer: Nimble Neuron
Publisher: Nimble Neuron, SapStaR Games
Release Date: 2020
Platform: PC (Windows)
If you’re craving something fresh in the battle royale scene, something that blends strategic depth with survival thrill, Eternal Return might just be your next obsession. Nimble Neuron developed it, and it fuses the intense last-one-standing dynamics of battle royale with the character-driven, ability-focused style of MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas).
Genre: Action-Adventure, Battle Royale
Developer: 24 Entertainment
Publisher: NetEase Games Montreal
Release Date: 2021
Platform: PC (Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One
NARAKA: Bladepoint might be your dream game if you’ve ever wished your battle royale matches looked more like a kung fu movie than a military simulation. You can explore beyond the traditional gunplay, such as close-quarter battles, featuring grappling hooks, swords, spears, bows, and unique abilities tied to each hero.
The game exploded in popularity, hitting over 10 million players within its first year and reaching a peak of over 160,000 concurrent players on Steam. It’s now free-to-play as of July 2023, which has massively boosted its player base.
Genre: Third-Person Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action
Developer: Sharkmob
Publisher: Sharkmob
Release Date: 2022
Platform: PC (Windows), PlayStation 5
If you think battle royale games are all about guns and gear, get ready to sink your teeth into something darker and more thrilling. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodhunt takes the genre into the supernatural underworld. It is one of the popular multiplayer shooting games that blends vampire lore, brutal combat, and strategic gameplay in a city that never sleeps.
Since launch, Bloodhunt has attracted a dedicated player base, especially among fans of the Vampire: The Masquerade franchise and players looking for something edgier than your typical BR. It hit over a million downloads on Steam within months and continues to get steady updates, balancing patches, and seasonal events.
Sharkmob is actively supporting the game with new clans, weapons, and story-driven content, keeping players hooked. Plus, with plans for crossplay across PC and consoles, Bloodhunt is poised to grow even more.
Genre: Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action
Developer: Daybreak Game Company
Publisher: Daybreak Game Company
Release Date: 2018
Platform: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4
If you’re someone who loves the roots of battle royale gaming and craves a straightforward, no-frills shooter experience, Z1 Battle Royale might just be your perfect pick. Originally launched as H1Z1: King of the Kill, this game is one of the pioneers of the battle royale genre, paving the way for giants like PUBG and Fortnite.
The game encourages high mobility and aggressive gameplay, with quick looting, fast travel using vehicles like trucks and motorcycles, and minimal downtime between fights. The shrinking safe zone pushes players into encounters rapidly, making every match a rush of adrenaline.
Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS), Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action
Developer: NetEase Games
Publisher: NetEase Games
Release Date: 2024
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android), PC (Steam)
If you’re a fan of fast-paced, skill-driven shooters with a strong competitive edge, Blood Strike is a title that deserves your attention. This game brings together the classic feel of tactical first-person shooters with the intense dynamics of modern multiplayer battles.
Although Blood Strike isn’t as globally renowned as some battle royale giants, it has carved out a dedicated community, especially among fans of classic FPS gameplay. Regular updates, balance patches, and community events have helped maintain a loyal player base.
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Genre: First-Person Shooter
Developers: Treyarch and Raven Software
Publisher: Activision
Release Date: 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam, Battle.net)
Black Ops 6 offers a fresh yet familiar experience for fans of the Call of Duty franchise. The game’s innovative movement mechanics, engaging campaign, and revitalized Zombies mode provide a comprehensive package that caters to both new players and longtime fans.
Upon release, Black Ops 6 achieved the largest launch weekend in the franchise’s history and was the best-selling video game in the United States in 2024. Critics praised the game’s innovations, particularly the omnidirectional movement system and the return to classic Zombies gameplay. The game received several accolades, including nominations for Best Audio Design and Best Multiplayer Game at The Game Awards 2024.
Genre: First-Person Shooter
Developer: Infinity Ward
Publisher: Activision
Release Date: 2019
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare rebooted the iconic sub-series with a story grounded in contemporary global conflict. The campaign put players into tense missions with morally complex scenarios, focusing on a multinational task force hunting terrorists across fictional and real-world locations.
Genre: Online Multiplayer FPS / MMO
Developer: Bungie
Publisher: Activision
Release Date: 2017
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Stadia
Destiny 2 throws players into a rich sci-fi universe filled with mystery, danger, and epic battles. You step into the shoes of a Guardian, a protector of the last safe city on Earth, who wields incredible powers granted by the enigmatic Light. The game’s sprawling environments range from Earth’s European Dead Zone to alien planets like Nessus and Io, each packed with secrets, quests, and formidable enemies.
It has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and remains one of the most popular online shooters. It has been praised for its blend of engaging gunplay, cooperative gameplay, and expansive sci-fi world-building. According to SuperData Research, the game consistently ranks among the top live-service games in player engagement and revenue.
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Developer: Riot Games
Publisher: Riot Games
Release Date: 2009
Platforms: PC, Mac
League of Legends (LoL) is one of the most influential and enduring titles in the world of competitive gaming. With over 150 champions to choose from, each with unique abilities and playstyles, LoL offers unmatched strategic depth and variety. The core gameplay revolves around two teams of five players battling to destroy the opposing team’s Nexus.
League of Legends has arguably the most vibrant esports ecosystem globally. The annual World Championship draws millions of viewers worldwide, with prize pools soaring into millions of dollars. Regions like South Korea, China, Europe, and North America boast professional leagues and superstar players.
Genre: Third-Person Hero Shooter
Developer: NetEase Games
Publisher: NetEase Games
Release Date: 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC
Marvel Rivals brings the thrill of superhero combat to the hero shooter genre. Players engage in 6v6 team battles across destructible, ever-changing maps inspired by iconic Marvel locations. Marvel Rivals supports cross-play across all platforms, fostering a unified player base. The game has gained traction in the esports scene, with the inaugural Marvel Rivals Championship (MRC) held from March 8 to April 6, 2025, featuring a prize pool of $14,500.
Marvel Rivals has been well-received, with over 40 million players reported by February 2025. The game reached a peak of 644,269 concurrent players on Steam during Season 1, making it the 14th highest game of all time by this metric. It was also the 5th highest-grossing game in the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy for January 2025.
Genre: Survival, Adventure, RPG
Developer: Urban Legend Games
Publisher: Urban Legend Games
Release Date: TBA
Platform: PC (Steam)
Lost Light: Weapon Skin Treat is an immersive, free-to-play survival shooter developed by NetEase Games. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world, where users can access elements of tactical combat, resource management, and deep weapon customization, offering players a rich and engaging experience.
Genre: Battle Royale, Fantasy
Developer: Dusk Games
Publisher: Dusk Games
Release Date: October 16, 2019
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Frostfall is a fantasy-infused battle royale game designed specifically for mobile platforms. Players engage in fast-paced, chaotic matches where they discover and combine weapons, ancient technology, and potent spells to defeat their foes. With over 7,000 item combinations, each battle offers a unique experience. The game features quick matches under 5 minutes, making it accessible for players on the go.
If you’re a fan of lore-heavy RPGs, strategic mobile kingdom games, hardcore survival mechanics, or fast battle royales, Frostfall offers a version for you. It’s rare to see a single name carry so many styles under its banner, and yet, every iteration captures the essence of survival in a world gone cold.
Genre: Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action
Developer: Wildlife Studios
Publisher: Wildlife Studios
Release Date: 2019
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Zooba is a free-to-play mobile battle royale that trades soldiers and guns for quirky zoo animals and over-the-top weaponry. This game has more than a million downloads, which proves that you don’t need realistic graphics or gritty warfare to create adrenaline-pumping action.
Zooba maintains a thriving online presence, with active Discord and Reddit communities hosting daily tournaments and discussions. It continues to top mobile game charts in key regions such as the United States, Brazil, and Southeast Asia, proving its enduring popularity and wide-reaching impact.
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Genre: 2D Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action, Platformer
Developer: Joyride Games
Publisher: Joyride Games
Release Date: 2020
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
If you’re a fan of side-scrolling action and fast-paced battle royales, Bullet League: Battle Royale offers a fresh, adrenaline-charged experience. The gameplay encourages vertical and horizontal combat, with destructible environments adding another tactical layer.
The game’s arsenal includes machine guns, shotguns, grenade launchers, and sniper rifles, each with distinctive mechanics that force players to master movement and timing. It offers multiple modes, including solo, squad, and limited-time events, along with ranked leaderboards and a reward-driven progression system that keeps players coming back.
Genre: Tactical Shooter, Multiplayer, Competitive FPS
Developer: Riot Games
Publisher: Riot Games
Release Date: 2020
Platform: PC (Windows), Console (PlayStation, Xbox), Mobile (in development)
Valorant is Riot Games’ breakout entry into the tactical shooter genre, combining precise gunplay with unique hero-based abilities to deliver a competitive experience reminiscent of games like Counter-Strike and Overwatch. The game is built on the Unity engine and quickly became a staple in the esports community due to its tight mechanics, strategic depth, and frequent content updates.
According to Riot Games and data firms like Esports Charts, Valorant consistently ranks among the most-watched esports titles globally, with major tournaments like Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) drawing millions of viewers. Riot has also confirmed that a mobile version of Valorant is in development, targeting the expanding mobile FPS market. The game enjoys a vibrant online presence through platforms like Twitch, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit, where fans discuss agent strategies, map tactics, and competitive play.
Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS), Multiplayer, Action, RPG
Developer: Madfinger Games
Publisher: Madfinger Games
Release Date: 2018
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android, also available on PC)
If you’re hunting for a mobile shooter that goes beyond the usual run-and-gun, Shadowgun Legends is the game to check out. This title brilliantly mixes the adrenaline of a first-person shooter with the rich character progression and social vibes of an MMO. Since launching in 2018, it’s captured the hearts of millions with its sharp graphics, deep storylines, and endless gameplay variety.
The game maintains a strong presence in the mobile gaming community, with a notable number of daily active users. On the Google Play Store, the game ranks #238 in the “Action” category in the United States, indicating its competitive standing among mobile action games.
Genre: Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action, Shooter
Developer: Miracle Games
Publisher: Lilith Games
Release Date: 2021
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Farlight 84 is an exciting hero-based battle royale game developed by Miracle Games. It quickly carved out its niche in the competitive battle royale scene by blending fast-paced action with unique hero abilities, futuristic weapons, and dynamic environments.
Since its release, Farlight 84 has amassed a passionate player base, supported by active Discord servers and content creators regularly streaming gameplay. According to Steam Charts, the game peaked at over 40,000 concurrent players shortly after launch and currently maintains a steady community with thousands of daily active users.
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Genre: 2D Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action, Platformer
Developer: Joyride Games
Publisher: Joyride Games
Release Date: 2020
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Last Mage Standing is a fast-paced, action-packed battle royale game that blends the thrill of magical combat with strategic gameplay elements. The gameplay is fast and intense, with matches typically lasting about three minutes. You can jump into different modes, including solo or team battle royale, cooperative tower defense where you defend magical crystals, and even team-versus-team crystal destruction matches. This variety keeps the game fresh and engaging, encouraging players to experiment with different Guardians and tactics.
Though not as massive as some AAA titles, Last Mage Standing has a dedicated player base and active community on platforms like Discord and Reddit, where players share tips, organize tournaments, and celebrate their favorite Guardians. Interested in Roblox? You can check out our blog, which gives insights on how to make a Roblox game
Genre: 2D Tactical PvP Shooter, Multiplayer, Action, Strategy
Developer: ZeptoLab
Publisher: ZeptoLab
Release Date: 2019
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Bullet Echo is a thrilling top-down tactical shooter that brings a fresh spin to mobile PvP combat. This game combines stealth, strategy, and team coordination into fast-paced battles where every move counts.
As of April 2025, Bullet Echo has amassed over 30 million downloads across Android and iOS platforms. The game maintains a strong community presence, with active discussions on platforms like Reddit and Discord. Players frequently share strategies, discuss hero balance, and participate in community events.
Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS), Multiplayer, PvP, Action
Developer: Game Insight
Publisher: Game Insight
Release Date: 2017
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Guns of Boom is a competitive multiplayer first-person shooter (FPS) developed by Game Insight. The game offers fast-paced, team-based combat with intuitive controls, making it accessible to both casual and competitive players.
As of May 2025, the game has been downloaded over 55 million times globally. Guns of Boom is available in 14 languages and has a significant player base in countries such as the United States, Russia, and China. The game has been featured in various esports tournaments and continues to maintain a dedicated community of players worldwide.
Genre: Battle Royale, Multiplayer, Action, Comedy
Developer: Landfall Games
Publisher: Landfall Games
Release Date: 2018
Platform: PC (Steam), Xbox One (original release)
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a battle royale game didn’t take itself too seriously, Totally Accurate Battlegrounds (TABG) is your answer. The game started as a tongue-in-cheek April Fools’ joke in 2018, but its unexpected popularity turned it into a cult favorite. Now a free-to-play title on Steam, TABG is known for turning the gritty battle royale formula into something outrageously fun and chaotic.
The game gathered over 600,000 downloads in its first week and has since gained over 3 million lifetime players. You can expect to encounter bizarre weapons, unpredictable physics that make shooting and movement a riot, and a blessing system that gives you random superpowers like super speed or explosive punches.
Genre: 3v3 & 5v5 Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA), Battle Royale, Action
Developer: Supercell
Publisher: Supercell
Release Date: 2018
Platform: Mobile (iOS, Android)
Forget long lobbies and 30-minute rounds. In Brawl Stars, it’s all about quick bursts of chaos where every second counts. One of the best things about Brawl Stars is that it’s never the same game twice. With rotating maps, limited-time events, and new modes like Payload and Knockout, every day brings a fresh challenge. The developers are constantly tuning the gameplay based on feedback, ensuring balance and excitement.
Brawl Stars remains a powerhouse in the mobile gaming world, having 100 million downloads globally and generating more than $1.2 billion in lifetime revenue. The game attracts between 10 and 12 million monthly active users, with strong player bases in countries like the U.S., Brazil, Germany, and South Korea. If you’re interested in exploring more games like Brawl Stars, our recent blog enlists all the newest games to play in your free time.
You don’t need a flagship device to enjoy intense battle royale action. There are several lightweight games out there that capture the thrill of PUBG but are built for low-budget phones. Here are some of the best PUBG alternatives that won’t overload your device:
Space Usage: 350 MB
ScarFall is a battle royale game that works offline and online, which is a rare feature in this genre. It’s lightweight and offers decent graphics, personalized loadouts, and solo and team play options. You can respawn multiple times per match, which makes it more forgiving for new players.
Space Usage: 200 MB
Looking for a fun, casual take on the battle royale genre? Battlelands Royale is a top-down shooter with cartoonish graphics, compact maps, and short matches. It’s simple, addictive, and ideal for players who want a quick gaming session without the pressure of ultra-competitive gameplay.
Space Usage: 100 MB
If you’re okay with Minecraft-style visuals, Pixels Unknown Battle Ground delivers a blocky, lighthearted version of PUBG. Despite its small size, it features a big map, various weapons, and a survival mode that mirrors PUBG’s core gameplay.
Space Usage: 45 MB
Mini Militia offers multiplayer shooting chaos in a tiny package. You can play with up to 12 players online or over local Wi-Fi. It’s 2D, fast-paced, and incredibly fun and is perfect for budget phones that struggle with large 3D games.
Space Usage: 60 MB
Want something different but still action-packed? Stickman Battle Royale strips everything down to the basics with stick-figure animations, simple controls, and smooth gameplay. It’s silly, fast, and surprisingly fun. A great pick for casual gaming when you’re short on storage.
If you’ve ever wondered why PUBG became such a massive hit worldwide, you’re not alone. From its realistic gunfights to its intense survival gameplay, PUBG carved out a unique space in the world of online multiplayer games. Let’s break down the reasons why this battle royale game continues to dominate the charts even years after its release.
While PUBG didn’t invent the battle royale format, it definitely popularized it on a global scale. The idea is simple but brilliant: 100 players drop onto an island, scavenge for weapons, and fight to be the last one standing. The shrinking play zone forces constant movement and tension, making every match a heart-pounding survival experience.
According to GamesRadar, PUBG’s more tactical and realistic approach gave it an edge over other early competitors.
One of PUBG’s biggest draws is its focus on realism. Apart from other shooters that go for fast-paced, arcade-style action, PUBG makes you think like a soldier. You deal with bullet drop, weapon recoil, limited inventory space, and real-world guns and gear.
PC Gamer points out that this grounded approach made PUBG stand out, especially compared to more colorful or fantastical games like Fortnite.
Another reason PUBG became so huge is its accessibility. You can play a game on PC, mobile, or console. The mobile version is a game-changer and has brought the battle royale experience to millions of players who didn’t own a high-end gaming PC or console.
Currently, there are over 33 million monthly PUBG users, which is a clear sign of its global appeal, especially in markets like the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. Maintaining smooth performance across devices like this often needs continuous support, and you must opt for mobile app maintenance services to keep your game app working perfectly.
No matter how great a game is, it can get stale without new content. PUBG’s developers understood this early on and started rolling out regular updates, seasonal events, new maps, and gameplay modes.
IGN reports that PUBG’s commitment to evolving content is a major reason players keep coming back. If you’re looking for top app developers, you can check out list of top 100 companies that are professional and efficient.
PUBG has made a big splash in the world of esports. Tournaments like the PUBG Global Championship (PGC) and the PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) pull in millions of viewers and offer serious cash prizes.
As noted by Esports Insider, this competitive sector has helped create a strong PUBG reputation as a full-blown esports title.
PUBG is one of those games that’s made better with a squad. You can go solo if you’re feeling brave, but teaming up with friends brings in a whole new level of fun. You strategize, call out enemy positions, and sometimes argue over who gets the best loot, all of which adds to the social and emotional appeal.
According to The Verge, PUBG’s team-based mechanics have helped it create a strong community vibe, one that encourages players to play in group-based settings.
PUBG might have been the game that popularized the battle royale genre for mobile users, but it’s far from the only option out there. There are numerous apps like PUBG that offer adrenaline rush and unique gameplay for every type of player. So, if you’ve been looking for games like PUBG, it is the perfect time to explore.
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Can an individual person make a game like PUBG?
Yes, a single developer can create a battle royale-style game like PUBG, especially using game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine. These platforms offer pre-built assets, battle royale templates, and community plugins that can speed up the process.
However, PUBG-style games are complex multiplayer shooting platforms that have large-scale 3D environments, live online multiplayer networking, shooting mechanics and physics, and server-side game logic. For a solo developer, handling all of this requires extensive knowledge in programming, 3D modeling, animation, networking, and game design.
How much does it cost to make a game like PUBG?
The cost to develop games like PUBG varies based on factors like development scale, platform, and team size. For a full-featured, AAA-quality battle game, the cost can range from $300,000 to $500,000. This budget commonly covers game design, UI/UX, 3D modeling, animations, backend infrastructure (servers, databases), testing, and post-launch support.
However, if you’re building a simplified version for mobile with low-poly graphics and fewer features, the cost could be reduced to $50,000 to $150,000, using strong game engines and third-party assets. Outsourcing from countries with lower development rates or using no-code/low-code platforms can also help control costs. For accurate estimates, check out our app development cost calculator to plan out your budget.
What is the No. 1 battle royale game?
As of now, the No.1 battle royale game is widely considered to be PUBG: Battlegrounds, all thanks to its massive global player base, intense gameplay mechanics, and ongoing updates. However, other titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Free Fire compete closely for the top spot, depending on the platform and region.
PUBG Mobile has dominated mobile gaming charts in countries like India, China, and several Southeast Asian regions, covering over 1 billion downloads.
How long does it take to create games like PUBG?
There isn’t any dedicated timeline to deliver a game like PUBG. It is largely influenced by the scale, features, and team involved. For a fully developed, AAA-style battle royale game, the development can take 1.5 to 2 years. This area covers everything, such as design, 3D modeling, animation, coding, server architecture, testing, and post-launch optimization.
However, if you’re aiming for a lighter, mobile-friendly version with limited features, it’s possible to build a minimum viable product within 6-12 months. That said, ongoing updates, bug fixes, and player feedback integration can extend the timeline.
Is PUBG still popular in 2025?
Yes, PUBG is still popular in 2025, especially its mobile version. It continues to dominate the battle royale sector in many sectors across Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. Although competition from titles like Free Fire, Call of Duty, and Fortnite has grown, PUBG has a strong foothold due to its realistic gameplay, consistent updates, esports presence, and massive online community. The game has also adapted over time with new maps, modes, collaborations, and seasonal events to keep players engaged.
Which one is more popular: PUBG or Fortnite?
The popularity of PUBG and Fortnite largely depends on the region and platform. Globally, Fortnite tends to dominate in Western markets like the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe due to its unique mechanics, vibrant visuals, and massive crossover events with famous personalities. This game is mostly popular among younger audiences and content creators on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
On the other hand, PUBG has a strong presence in Asia, the Middle East, and parts of South America, where it’s known for its realistic gameplay, intense battle mechanics, and active esports. PUBG Mobile has constantly ranked among the top mobile games in terms of downloads and revenue.
In short, Fortnite may lead in overall Western popularity and cultural impact, but PUBG holds an important place in global mobile gaming markets.
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Rida Shahzad is a business graduate and seasoned content writer at WareGo, where she transforms complex concepts into clear, actionable content. With a strong background in creating how-to guides, conversion-focused content, and technical documentation, Rida excels at bridging the gap between advanced technology and real-world business needs. Off the page, she’s a curious mind with a love for ancient history, tech trends, and creative sketching.
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