BGMI vs PUBG: What Sets the Indian Version Apart?
July 26, 2023 (1 year ago)
The gaming world witnessed a significant shift when PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG), developed by PUBG Corporation, took the gaming community by storm in 2017. However, its success also sparked controversies and concerns, leading to its ban in India in 2020. Responding to the demand from its dedicated player base in India, Krafton, the parent company of PUBG Corporation, launched Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) in July 2021. This move brought joy to millions of Indian gamers who were eagerly waiting for the return of their beloved battle royale experience.
Features and factors that set BGMI apart from PUBG
The Reworked Title and Purpose
The first and most obvious difference is the title itself. PUBG Mobile, which faced backlash for its violent content, has now been transformed into Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) to comply with Indian regulatory guidelines. This change highlights Krafton's commitment to adapting the game to suit the cultural sensitivities and requirements of the Indian audience. The new title also emphasizes that BGMI is designed specifically for Indian players, creating a sense of ownership and pride within the community.
Increased Emphasis on Player Security and Privacy
One of the key concerns that led to PUBG Mobile's ban in India was related to data security and user privacy. With BGMI, Krafton took a proactive approach to address these concerns. They established data centers in India and ensured that user data is stored locally, mitigating potential risks associated with data sharing. Additionally, the game implemented enhanced privacy settings, giving players more control over their personal information, ensuring a safer and more secure gaming experience.
Age Restrictions and Parental Controls
BGMI introduced age restrictions to prevent younger players from accessing the game's content deemed inappropriate for their age group. To comply with Indian regulations, players under the age of 18 need to seek parental consent to play BGMI. Moreover, the game offers parental controls, allowing parents to set limits on their children's playtime, in-game spending, and social interactions. This move reflects Krafton's dedication to promoting responsible gaming and addressing concerns over excessive screen time among young players.
A Focus on Social Responsibility
In addition to implementing age restrictions and parental controls, BGMI has introduced in-game notifications that remind players to take breaks and avoid playing for extended periods. This feature encourages players to maintain a healthy balance between gaming and other aspects of life, promoting a socially responsible approach to gaming.
Collaborations and India-centric Content
BGMI caters to its Indian audience by partnering with popular Indian personalities, celebrities, and brands. These collaborations bring exclusive in-game events, skins, and other rewards that resonate with the Indian player base. By integrating Indian culture and influences into the game, BGMI establishes a more immersive experience and strengthens the bond between the game and its players.
Enhanced Communication Channels
BGMI offers improved communication channels for players to provide feedback and report issues. The developers actively listen to the community's suggestions and promptly address bugs and glitches. This two-way communication fosters a sense of involvement and cooperation, making players feel valued and heard.
Regional Tournaments and Esports Scene
Krafton recognizes India's vibrant esports community and has taken significant steps to support it. BGMI hosts regional tournaments and events, providing opportunities for talented players and teams to showcase their skills and compete at a professional level. This commitment to fostering the esports ecosystem in India has garnered immense support and appreciation from the gaming community.
Exclusive India-only Features
BGMI offers unique in-game events and features exclusively for Indian players. These events celebrate Indian festivals, cultural events, and national holidays, creating a sense of unity and belonging among players. By acknowledging and incorporating Indian traditions, BGMI strengthens its position as a game designed with the Indian audience in mind.
Conclusion
The launch of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) marked a significant milestone in the gaming industry, especially for Indian gamers who eagerly awaited the return of PUBG in a reworked, culturally sensitive version. BGMI, developed by Krafton, stands apart from its predecessor PUBG Mobile by addressing various concerns and demands specific to the Indian audience. From data security and privacy measures to age restrictions, parental controls, and a focus on social responsibility, BGMI exhibits a strong commitment to promoting a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for players of all ages.
Moreover, the game's India-centric content, partnerships with local influencers, and support for the esports community demonstrate Krafton's dedication to embracing and celebrating India's diverse culture and gaming community. BGMI's success is a testament to the power of adapting and evolving a game to cater to the preferences and values of a specific audience, making it a shining example of how global gaming companies can connect with players on a more personal level. As BGMI continues to evolve and grow, it is sure to leave a lasting impact on the Indian gaming landscape for years to come.
BGMI VS PUBG
Aspect | BGMI | PUBG |
---|---|---|
Title | Battlegrounds Mobile India | PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds |
Target Audience | Indian players | Global audience |
Data Security | Data stored locally in India | Data stored in various locations |
User Privacy | Enhanced privacy settings | Privacy settings as per regulations |
Age Restrictions | Age verification required | No age restrictions |
Parental Controls | Available | Limited |
Social Responsibility | In-game notifications | Limited focus on social responsibility |
India-Centric Content | India-themed events and skins | Global content with no regional focus |
Collaborations | Partnerships with Indian entities | Global partnerships and collaborations |
Communication Channels | Improved feedback mechanisms | Standard communication channels |
Regional Tournaments | Regularly hosted in India | Global tournaments with a regional focus |
Esports Support | Strong support for the Indian scene | Esports support for all regions |
Cultural Adaptation | Tailored to Indian culture | Neutral in terms of cultural themes |
Bans and Restrictions | Compliant with Indian regulations | Subject to regional bans and issues |