Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) will once again be available on the Google and iOS Play store and will be playable starting May 27 for Android users and May 29 for iOS.
Android users can pre-load the game right away while iOS users will have to wait a couple more days, as BGMI will be available for them starting May 29.
The company assured that the update is “normal and does not require any concern.”
Why original version was banned
The original version of the game was banned and taken down by the Indian govt from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store a couple years back due to security concerns amidst tensions with China.
The ban on the previous iteration, PUBG Mobile, remains in effect due to similar security issues and its connection to China.
India-specific version made
Developer Krafton then released an India-specific version of the game called Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), which was also removed from mobile storefronts last year, once again due to security concerns.
Now the game is officially back, following ongoing negotiations between Krafton and the Indian government.
In anticipation of high traffic
To ensure a smooth gaming experience for players amidst the anticipated high number of downloads, Krafton has decided to stagger the availability and playability of BGMI.
This approach aims to prevent any interruptions and allow players to enjoy the action-packed battles seamlessly.
As per the Play Store listing, BGMI has new content as well, including a new Nusa map, a new quad bike vehicle and some free outfit rewards for completing certain events.
Toned down depictions of violence
Though not confirmed, the game’s new version is also expected to feature even further toned-down violence to comply with government requirements.
To ensure the game’s full reinstatement, Krafton is required to fulfill certain conditions imposed by the government.
In earlier Indian versions, blood was colored green or yellow instead of red, and kills were renamed to “finishes” to reduce the perceived violence.
Daily time limit
Also to be expected is a daily playtime limit which is also a government condition.
The company must implement a daily time limit for the game over a period of 90 days (equivalent to three months).
However, it remains unclear whether BGMI will be accessible to users only during specified time slots each day.
This step aims to check addiction particularly among children.
The move came into force after a tragic incident in which a teenager killed his mother after being prohibited from playing BGMI.
“Probationary re-launch”
Even with all official conditions met, Minister of State (IT) Rajeev Chandrasekhar already made it clear that this is still a probationary re-launch of the game and a “three-month trial approval.”
He said, “We will keep a close watch on other issues of user harm, addiction, etc, in the next three months before a final decision is taken”.
Krafton India CEO’s words
Krafton India CEO Sean Hyunil Sohn expressed his enthusiasm about BGMI’s re-release in the country and said, “We are thrilled to announce that BGMI is now available for pre-load.
We are constantly working to provide our users with a seamless gameplay experience and are excited to welcome everyone back.
We extend our gratitude to the authorities and our users for their continued support as we aim to enhance the gaming experience for our Indian community.”
