Is PUBG free-to-play? Platforms, PlayStation Plus & Xbox Live

James Busby
PUBG characters

Wondering if PUBG is free-to-play, giving you the chance to dive into the action without spending a penny? We’ve got all the latest information on the battle royale title, including platforms, how to get it for free, and information on PlayStation Plus & Xbox Live.

PUBG is finally ditching its price tag and going completely free-to-play. For the first time, players will be able to obtain chicken dinners without having to purchase a copy of the title. With the likes of Warzone, Apex Legends, and Fortnite dominating the free-to-play market, it makes sense that PUBG would inevitably follow suit.

While PUBG originally proved incredibly popular back in 2017, the game has struggled to maintain its player base amongst western audiences. It’s hoped this free-to-play move will bolster the title’s current community and give it a new lease of life. 

Whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer looking to try out the Battle Royale for the first time, we have all the info you need in order to dive into your first free-to-play match. 


Contents


PUBG free-to-play announcement
PUBG is finally free-to-play.

Is PUBG free-to-play?

Yes, as of January 12, 2022, PUBG is now free-to-play. This news was announced at The Game Awards alongside a trailer that showcased new maps and improved graphics.

The move to free-to-play saw the game gain popularity, with more than 690,000 total players dropping in on the day the game went free – making it the most popular game on Steam that day. The game saw a 486% increase in its player base the week after, and increased playtime, too.

How to get PUBG for free?

To get PUBG for free, you simply need to head to your preferred store of choice – such as Steam on PC – where you’ll now have the option to download the game completely free of charge.

What platforms is PUBG on?

PUBG is currently available on the following platforms: 

  • Microsoft Windows
  • Android
  • iOS
  • Xbox One (and Series X|S)
  • PlayStation 4 (and PS5)
  • Stadia

Do you need Xbox Live or PlayStation Plus to play PUBG?

You do not need an Xbox Live or PlayStation Plus subscription to play PUBG. This means that console players can enjoy the battle royale title without having to purchase additional services. 

PUBG Commemorative Pack
Existing PUBG players will gain access to some exclusive items.

All PUBG rewards for existing players

In order to reward players that originally purchased PUBG, the developers are giving away a number of exclusive in-game goodies. The PUBG Special Commemorative Pack can only be obtained by those who purchased the game before the free-to-play transition. 

The PUBG Special Commemorative Pack includes the following items: 

  • Battlegrounds Plus
  • Costume skin set
  • Battle-hardened Legacy Corset
  • Battle-hardened Legacy Jacket
  • Battle-hardened Legacy Gloves
  • Battle-hardened Legacy Pants
  • Battle-hardened Legacy Boots
  • Shackle and Shanks Legacy – Pan
  • Nameplate – Battle-hardened Legacy

So, there you have it, everything to know about PUBG’s free-to-play transition. Make sure you check out our PUBG page for all the latest news and content updates.

About The Author

James is Dexerto's Associate Games Editor who joined the website in 2020. He graduated from university with a degree in Journalism, before spending four years freelancing for GamesRadar+, PCGamesN, RPS, LoL Esports, Red Bull Gaming, and many more. You can find him covering everything from CoD, Apex Legends, Genshin Impact, and Monster Hunter. Need to get in touch? Email James at james.busby@dexerto.com.