By Sagar V. Mankar 
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) took the gaming world by storm when it launched in 2017, popularizing the exciting battle royale genre.
When it launched, it ranked as the top most played “paid” game on Steam and still holds this record (Palworld nearly came closer to it).
Though still hugely popular, the developer Krafton is continuously improving it to keep fans hooked.
Now, publisher Krafton is leveraging the game’s continued success to expand the brand.
Expanding The Iconic Battle Royale Universe
First up, Krafton aims to unleash more PUBG upon the world by franchising the IP and increasing development.
The company is bulking up internal studios and outsourcing to pump out new games set in the tactical battle royale universe made famous by PUBG.
This likely means more spin-offs and ancillary titles that leverage the core mechanics of the original.
Rumors indicate a PUBG lore-based single-player game may already be in the works.
Krafton already announced a new extraction shooter named “Project Black Budget,“ which will launch later in 2024.
In addition to it, new battle royale hybrids with MMORPGs or tower defense games are down the line.
Wherever the franchise spreads its chicken dinner wings, fans worldwide are ready to drop in and battle for that sweet loot.
Krafton is wise to capitalize on PUBG’s monumental popularity in this way.
Visual And Audio Upgrades
Next up, Krafton is integrating Unreal Engine 5 into Battleground to level up its visuals and audio. With cutting-edge effects and optimization tools, maps and weapons will get stunning realism.
Soon, you’ll be able to audibly identify guns fired across the map.
New Modes And Mechanics
Krafton is cooking up new genres, platforms, and play modes to expand the franchise’s flavor profile.
Think quick deathmatch modes, 50v50 team battles, zombies, and maybe even a PUBG dating sim? Okay, maybe not that last one.
But seriously, talk a wider net of game modes will reel in bigger audiences and provide more replay value.
We could also see limited-time events with specialty modes and modifiers to continually surprise die-hard fans.
AI And Algorithmic Alchemy
The other key announcement is Krafton’s intent to utilize AI and deep learning tech to enhance development and craft next-gen gaming experiences.
While not detailed, AI will likely assist with small design tasks, freeing up human creativity for the finer touches.
We could also see in-game opponents (or NPC) powered by AI to enable more complex single-player modes.
This technology remains divisive, but one thing is certain – AI will play a huge role in gaming’s future.