‘PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds’ for Xbox One: Review

Kay TurnerFeb 12, 2019

A perfect balance of watchability and player intrigue, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds quickly became one of the most popular game releases of 2017. As the game has evolved, it’s become available to wider audiences with the additions of the alternative console and even mobile options.

How does the Xbox One version hold up to the original PC version and all the expectations that it built up? I’ve checked out the most recent version of the game for you, and I’m here to give my honest review on PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) as of 2019. Keep reading to find out how the actual game stacks up to expectations and what obstacles it still faces.

Gameplay and Graphics

Microsoft was careful to limit expectations on this launch by constantly restating that the game is technically still in development, but that hasn’t stopped us all from still hoping they’re able to clear the hurdles they’re up against.

The good news is that the same satisfying game play cycle is what you’ll find on the Xbox One version. Essentially, you’re one of 100 players picking a spot on a map to parachute down to in order to collect supplies like weapons, first-aid, and armor. As the clock counts down, the map begins to shrink, pushing players in closer proximity to whittle down the surviving players. The pressure is on as supplies run out and the space becomes limited. Players can feel the impending end if they don’t rise above and beat out the rest, making every moment exciting.

The console release did a successful job bringing the same great gameplay over, but they seem to have struggled with the graphics. You may notice the framerate stutters at points as low as 20 FPS occasionally, making small actions like closing doors and picking things up off the floor difficult. While this doesn’t mean it’s a bad-looking game, it doesn’t measure up to the PC version in that regard.

Esports Draw

Before PUBG becomes a major e-sport, there are some kinks designers will need to work out. Even still, there are some foundational aspects of the game that already make it a great choice for viewing pleasure, like the high-quality overlays of players and opponents that only observers can see.

One of the biggest strengths that PUBG has to offer in the realm of esports is that it already has an enormous fan base and draw to it. With so many high-level players invested in the game, it’s only a matter of time before PUBG gets its own proper space in the esports industry – that is, if it isn’t overshadowed by other titles like Fortnite and most recently, Apex Legends.

While bugs have held the game back from becoming a major esports game, people still love to watch it. With thousands of viewers watching PUBG streams on Twitch at any given time, it’s safe to say that the competitive scene isn’t going away any time soon.

Conclusion

While I believe that gamers have deserved this version of the game, the final product didn’t quite measure up to the agility and seamlessness found in the PC version. Until the developers find solutions to the recurring problems in gameplay, we recommend trying the PC version. Just make sure you have the PUBG system requirements necessary to handle it.

Even though the game has its flaws and bugs, it is still being updated frequently. All in all, the exciting premise of the game makes for a thoroughly enjoyable player experience regardless of the platform it’s played on.

Whether you’re looking into PUBG as a player or as an observer, you’re sure to find enjoyment watching the players scramble as the play area shrinks and the clock gets to ticking.