Are you curious whether Free Fire, one of the most played battle royale games, borrowed its concept from PUBG? The similarities between these two gaming giants have sparked endless debates among players.

PUBG revolutionized the battle royale genre, but Free Fire made it more accessible for mobile gamers. The shared gameplay elements and mechanics often leave players questioning whether Free Fire actually copied PUBG or is just a product of the same genre.

Let’s examine the origins, features, and legal controversies to unravel the truth behind the Free Fire vs. PUBG debate. Read on to discover the full story!

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG), developed by PUBG Corporation (a subsidiary of Krafton), was released in March 2017. It popularised the battle royale genre, where players compete in an open-world arena until only one remains standing. PUBG was initially available on PC and consoles but later expanded to mobile platforms with PUBG Mobile.

FF Advance Server, developed by 111 Dots Studio and published by Garena, launched in December 2017. Unlike PUBG, Free Fire was specifically designed for mobile users, particularly those with low-end devices. Its lightweight design and accessible gameplay quickly attracted a massive player base.

• Players can choose landing spots on a map.
• The shrinking play zone (safe zone) forces players into confrontations.
• A variety of weapons, vehicles, and survival strategies are used in both games.

While Free Fire shares similarities with PUBG, it did not directly copy the game. PUBG did not invent the battle royale concept but popularized it. The genre has roots in earlier games like H1Z1 and the Japanese film “Battle Royale,” which inspired many game developers. Free Fire distinguishes itself with unique features tailored for mobile gamers, such as:

• Shorter Matches: Matches last around 10 minutes, making it ideal for quick gameplay.
• Character System: Free Fire introduces unique characters with special abilities, adding a strategic layer.
• Optimised for Low-End Devices: Its lightweight nature ensures smooth performance even on older smartphones.
• Distinct Art Style: Free Fire adopts a more arcade-like visual style than PUBG’s realistic approach.

In January 2022, Krafton, the developer of PUBG, filed a lawsuit against Garena, accusing Free Fire of copying PUBG’s mechanics and features. However, the battle royale genre is not copyrighted, and many developers build on similar concepts. The lawsuit mainly focused on specific design elements, but it has not deterred the success of either game.

1. Graphics Quality
   • PUBG: Realistic visuals designed for high-end devices.
   • Free Fire: Simplistic graphics optimized for mobile gaming.
2. Gameplay Duration
   • PUBG: Matches can last 30 minutes or more.
   • Free Fire: Fast-paced matches averaging 10 minutes.
3. Unique Features
   • PUBG: Focuses on realism and tactical gameplay.
   • Free Fire: Introduces characters, pets, and frequent in-game events.
4. Target Audience
   • PUBG: Appeals to players with high-end devices.
   • Free Fire: Caters to a broader audience, including those with budget smartphones.

The claim that Free Fire copied PUBG stems from the similarities inherent in the battle royale genre. However, Free Fire stands out with its innovative features, mobile-first approach, and accessibility for low-end devices. Both games contribute significantly to the gaming world, offering unique experiences for players.

So, whether you’re a PUBG enthusiast or a Free Fire fan, there’s no denying that both games have shaped the way we enjoy battle royale gaming today.