Yes, you can play PUBG: Battlegrounds on PlayStation 5. The game is fully supported on the PS5 platform, offering enhanced graphics, improved performance, and a robust online multiplayer experience. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive overview detailing how PUBG works on PS5, what features and upgrades are available, and what the future holds for the game on Sony’s latest console.
PUBG on PS5: Current State
Availability and Backward Compatibility
PUBG: Battlegrounds was initially released for PlayStation 4 in December 2018. With the launch of the PlayStation 5 in November 2020, PUBG became available on PS5 via backward compatibility. If you owned the PS4 version, you could download and play it on your PS5 at no additional cost, retaining your progress and account.
Performance and Graphics Enhancements
Since its initial PS5 launch, PUBG has received several updates to take advantage of the more powerful hardware. Notably, a major update (Update 18.2) introduced expanded graphical options for PS5 players, including:
- Resolution up to 1440p (QHD) at 60 frames per second (FPS)
- Option to toggle between two anti-aliasing modes: FXAA (Fast Approximate Anti-Aliasing) and TAA (Temporal Anti-Aliasing)
- Faster map loading and improved overall graphical quality
While Xbox Series X users can enjoy 4K/60fps, the PS5 version currently supports up to 1440p at 60fps, which is still a significant upgrade over the previous generation.
Gameplay Experience
PUBG on PS5 offers the same core battle royale gameplay: you parachute onto a large map, scavenge for weapons and gear, and compete to be the last player or team standing. The game supports solo, duo, and squad modes, and features a variety of maps and vehicles. The PS5’s SSD ensures faster load times, and the improved hardware allows for smoother gameplay and more stable frame rates.
Key Features of PUBG on PS5
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Up to 1440p (QHD) |
| Frame Rate | Up to 60 FPS |
| Anti-Aliasing Options | FXAA and TAA |
| Cross-Platform Play | Yes, with Xbox and PlayStation players |
| Free-to-Play | Yes (as of January 2022) |
| Next-Gen Optimization | Major update planned for late 2025 with Unreal Engine 5 enhancements |
Cross-Platform Play
PUBG supports cross-platform play between PlayStation and Xbox consoles. This means PS5 players can match with or against friends who play on Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One, broadening the pool of available opponents and teammates. Crossplay is enabled by default, but you can adjust these settings in-game if you prefer to play only with users on the same platform.
Free-to-Play Model
Since January 2022, PUBG has adopted a free-to-play model on all platforms, including PS5. This means you can download and play the game without purchasing it, though in-game purchases for cosmetics, battle passes, and other content are available.
Graphics and Performance: In-Depth
Current Generation Enhancements
- Resolution and FPS: On PS5, PUBG runs at up to 1440p resolution with a smooth 60 FPS, providing a visually pleasing and responsive experience.
- Anti-Aliasing: Players can choose between FXAA and TAA, allowing them to prioritize either performance or visual fidelity.
- Map Loading: The PS5’s SSD ensures that maps and assets load quickly, minimizing downtime between matches.
- Graphical Fidelity: While not yet on par with the most graphically advanced shooters, PUBG’s visuals have improved significantly on PS5, with better textures, lighting, and environmental details.
Upcoming Major Update (Late 2025)
Krafton, PUBG’s developer, has announced that a major update is in development for late 2025. This update will transition PUBG to Unreal Engine 5 on current-generation consoles, including the PS5. Expected improvements include:
- Enhanced graphics and performance
- Faster map loading and better FPS stability
- Major world updates and transformed fan-favorite maps
- Improved AI, gunplay, and the addition of new weapons and vehicles
This update aims to bring PUBG’s console versions closer to the PC experience and modernize the game’s visuals and mechanics for the current generation.
How to Play PUBG on PS5
Getting Started
- Download: Search for PUBG: Battlegrounds on the PlayStation Store and download the game for free.
- Account: Log in with your existing PUBG or PlayStation Network account. Your progress from PS4 will carry over if you use the same account.
- Settings: Adjust graphics settings to your preference (resolution, FPS, anti-aliasing).
- Crossplay: Enable or disable cross-platform play as desired.
- Jump In: Start playing solo, duo, or squad matches and experience the battle royale action.
Controller and UI
The PS5’s DualSense controller is fully supported, though some players may wish to customize button assignments for comfort. The game’s interface has also been optimized for console play, making inventory management and map navigation straightforward.
Community and Competitive Play
PUBG remains popular on PlayStation platforms, with regular tournaments and community events. For example, the ICU Royal Rumble Invitational brought together console players for competitive matches on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, showcasing the game’s robust online infrastructure and cross-platform capabilities.
Reviews and Player Feedback
PUBG’s move to PS5 has generally been well-received, with players praising the improved graphics, smoother performance, and faster load times. The free-to-play model has also brought in a new wave of players, keeping the community active and matchmaking times short.
However, some users note that while the graphical improvements are welcome, PUBG still lags behind competitors like Apex Legends and Call of Duty: Warzone in terms of visual fidelity and polish. The upcoming Unreal Engine 5 update is expected to address many of these concerns.
The Future of PUBG on PS5
Looking ahead, the late 2025 update promises to be a game-changer for PUBG on PS5. With Unreal Engine 5, players can expect:
- State-of-the-art visuals
- More immersive environments
- Smoother and more consistent performance
- Expanded gameplay features and content
Krafton’s commitment to ongoing development suggests that PUBG will remain a staple of the battle royale genre on PS5 for years to come.
Conclusion
You can absolutely play PUBG: Battlegrounds on PS5, enjoying enhanced graphics, smooth performance, and cross-platform play. The game is free-to-play, regularly updated, and poised for a major next-gen overhaul in late 2025. Whether you’re a returning veteran or a new player, PUBG on PS5 offers a fast-paced, competitive experience that continues to evolve with the platform.
If you’re looking for a battle royale game with deep mechanics, regular updates, and a large player base, PUBG on PS5 remains a top choice—and the best is yet to come.