Summary
A new update toPUBG: Battlegroundshas just launched and made a major change to the game’s Sanhok map. The change adds destructible terrain effects to the popularPUBG: Battlegroundsmap, drastically expanding the number of tactical options available to players.
Despite being one of the pioneers of the battle royale genre,PUBG: Battlegroundshas managed to stay relevant despite a huge number of competitors. And thoughPUBGis no longer the top battle royale game, continuous evolution and a distinct feel have kept its existing audience loyal. Developer PUBG Studios keeps things fresh with new maps, twists on familiar gameplay, and cosmetic upgrades to keep players looking fresh.
The latest update forPUBG: Battlegroundsbrings the game up to version 33.1, and debuts a number of new changes, the largest of which affects thePUBGSanhok map by adding destructible terrain and structures. Originally introduced back in 2018, the Sanhok map has been both popular and controversial, with variousPUBGSanhok updatesdividing players' opinions on the Asia-inspired tropical island.
PUBG: Battlegrounds Patch 33.1 Makes Sanhok Destructible
According to thePUBG: Battlegroundsversion 33.1 patch notes, the Sanhok map’s destructible effects mirror the effects added to the Rondo map whenPUBGUpdate 29.1launched in April 2024. Terrain and multiple key structures in Sanhok can now be damaged and destroyed by explosive weapons like grenades, rocket launchers, mortars, and the Red Zone effect, which saturates areas with artillery fire. The destructibility of Sanhok buildings will depend on their construction, with steel and stone buildings being only partially destructible. Some trees can also be destroyed by explosives, making jungle cover more dangerous for players to camp behind.
In addition to the destructible terrain addition,PUBG: Battlegroundsupdate 33.1 also makes visual changes to Sanhok as a whole, changing the map’s signature rice field areas and modifying parts of the map for increased visual interest and realism. The patch also makes some changes to gunplay, increasing the firing rate and accuracy of most SMGs to improve their sense of identity. The patch also adds global changes to the Red Zone effect that lower its damage while making it more likely to happen within the play area.
The addition of more destructible terrain to the Sanhok maps further cementsPUBG’s reputation as a top contender among the best battle royale games. Alongside other changes delivered from the2024PUBGroadmap, players can be guaranteed to have a fresh experience with the game in 2025 and beyond.
PUBG: Battlegrounds Update 33.1 Patch Notes
World: SanhokDestructible Map
Following the introduction of Destructible Terrain in Rondo as the first chapter of environmental destruction, Update 33.1 transforms Sanhok into a destructible map. Experience a reimagined Sanhok, where not only the terrain but most of the map can now be destroyed!
Miscellaneous
Replay/Death Cam
Dev’s comment: Following the introduction of Destructible Terrain in Rondo with Update 29.1, we’re taking things up a notch—Sanhok is now a destructible map! Buildings, structures, and objects across the map can now be destroyed, and the Destructible Terrain feature that was previously exclusive to Rondo has been added to Sanhok, making most of the map destructible. By adding the element of “destruction”—one of the most intense experiences on the battlegrounds—we aim to deliver a fresh gameplay experience while creating a more immersive and realistic environment in Sanhok. At the same time, we’ve made adjustments like balancing item spawns to ensure the core gameplay remains as enjoyable as ever. As outlined in our roadmap earlier this year, we hope environmental destruction adds a new layer of excitement to the game, creates unexpected scenarios, and opens up fresh opportunities for strategies and tactics.
Accuracy While Moving
Misc.
Dev’s comment: Throughout the year, we’ve made various gunplay adjustments for mainstream weapons, SMGs, attachments, and even Care Package weapons. In Update 33.1, we’re wrapping up the year with the final SMG rebalance. As mentioned in a previous Dev Letter, the goal of this rebalance is to give SMGs a unique identity while improving their overall usability. To achieve this, we’ve enhanced SMG accuracy in this update, with significant improvements to both hip-fire and shoulder-fire accuracy. These changes are expected to make SMGs more effective in close-range combat and one-on-one encounters. We’ve also adjusted 9mm ammunition, which was previously difficult to share across weapon classes and challenging to find in the later stages of a match. By reducing its weight, players should now be able to secure a sufficient amount of ammo even during early looting phases. We’ll be closely monitoring performance data following this update and remain committed to creating a diverse and enjoyable gunplay experience as we move into the new year.
GameplayRed Zone
※ Applies to all maps where the Red Zone is generated.
Dev’s comment: With Update 33.1, changes are coming to the Red Zone, one of PUBG’s iconic special zones. The Red Zone, which can be found in Erangel, Deston, and Sanhok, has long served as a dynamic element that introduces unpredictable situations to the battlegrounds. However, its overwhelming explosive damage has sometimes resulted in negative experiences for players. To address these issues, this update focuses on improving the overall Red Zone experience, reducing frustration, and balancing it to make the Red Zone viable for use in other modes as well.
Matchmaking
(PC) New Feature: Same Language Team
Dev’s comment: The highly requested “Same Language Team” feature will be introduced with Update 33.1. After the region merge, we prioritized the development of this feature to resolve communication challenges caused by team members speaking different languages. This feature will initially be available in Normal Match on PC. Please note that the “Same Language Team” feature pairs only players who have enabled the option, meaning matchmaking will be smoother as more players activate it.
Team Finder
The Team Finder feature has been revamped for a smoother experience.
Dev’s comment: We’re revamping the Team Finder feature with Update 33.1. In the updated version, the invitation/acceptance process is removed, and teams are formed automatically. Unlike the Same Language Team feature, where teammates are assigned when entering a match, the Team Finder allows teams to be formed beforehand. To address the demand for teaming up with players who speak the same language after the region merge, this feature will initially be applied to Normal Match on PC. We will monitor its usage following the revamp before extending it to Console platforms.
Win Streak Showdown
Based on player feedback, we have made improvements to Win Streak Showdown.
RankedSeason 33
Season 32 Rewards
Below are the rewards you’ll be receiving based on your final Tier from the previous Ranked season.
CustomizeNew Feature: Lobby Pose
Existing profile poses have been upgraded and transformed into new Lobby Pose items.
UX/UI
Items & Skins
※ Clipping issue: Graphics that are shown outside the visible part of an image/object.
PUBG: Battlegrounds
WHERE TO PLAY
Fight to be the last player standing in an action-packed battle royale. Parachute into a treacherous battleground with only your wits for protection, as you loot gear and outsmart your enemies in a fierce battle royale. Build the ultimate soldier from scratch and test your mettle against up to 99 other players across three unique maps. Only one life. Only one shot at victory per match. Wreak havoc on your own or take on the challenge in a squad of up to four players to increase your chances of survival - and glory. Squad up and join the Battlegrounds for free and experience the original battle royale.
