How PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Conquered Epic Games Store: A 2026 Retrospective

I've been a dedicated player of PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS since its early access days on Steam, but when I heard it was coming to the Epic Games Store, I was thrilled. That was back in December 2022, and now, in 2026, I look back at that launch as a pivotal moment for the community. The game had already conquered PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam, but expanding to Epic meant welcoming even more players into the chaotic, heart-pounding world of Battlegrounds. And let me tell you, the crossplay between Steam and Epic has been a game-changer. I can squad up with friends regardless of which platform they prefer, and the servers are always bustling. So, let me take you through the details of that launch, the promotions, and why it still matters today.

The Launch Details: When and How

I remember marking my calendar for the exact moment PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS went live on Epic Games Store. The official launch was scheduled for:

But here's a tip I wish I'd known: the store page opened a little early. That meant I could download the game before the official launch day, so I was ready to jump in the second the servers went live. If you're reading this in 2026 and wondering if that early access still happens with new platform launches, the answer is usually yes—Epic often gives players a head start.

Once I launched the game through Epic, I was relieved to find that the service was exactly the same as Steam's. That meant full crossplay between the two platforms, so I could play with my Steam friends on the same server. There was one catch: the crossplay on/off setting was unavailable—it was always on. Honestly, that was fine by me because it kept the player pool large and matchmaking fast. The in-game voice chat worked perfectly, though voice chat through Epic Games itself was not available. I just used the in-game system, and it was seamless.

Ranked mode was also fully supported. Season 21 of Ranked was available to play right from launch, just like on Steam. I dove into ranked matches immediately and found the competition as fierce as ever.

The Founder's Pack and Starter Pack: A Treasure Trove of Skins

To celebrate the Epic Games Store launch, the developers released two special bundles: the PUBG Founder's Pack and the Starter Pack. I grabbed the Founder's Pack as soon as I saw the cosmetic items, and I still use some of them in 2026. Here's what was included:

• Summer Surf – Mini14

• PUBG Varsity Jacket

• Rockstar Sweater

• Rockstar Jeans

• PUBG Creed – Helmet (Level 2)

• PUBG Creed Backpack (Level 2)

• PUBG Creed Pipe

• Cheer Legend Top

• Cheer Legend Skirt

• Battle Hazard Work Boots

I remember equipping the Rockstar Sweater and Jeans combo and feeling like a true Battlegrounds veteran. The Summer Surf Mini14 skin was a particular favorite—it added a splash of color to my weapon while I was busy looting. The Level 2 helmet and backpack from the PUBG Creed set gave me a subtle tactical advantage, or at least they made me look cool while I was getting shot at. 😅

The promotion period for these bundles ran from:

• UTC: December 6, 5 AM – January 5, 2023, 5 AM

• KST: December 6, 2 PM – January 5, 2023, 2 PM

• PST: December 5, 9 PM – January 4, 2023, 9 PM

• CET: December 6, 6 AM – January 5, 2023, 6 AM

Of course, those dates are long past. But if you're a collector in 2026, you might find similar bundles rotate back occasionally, so keep an eye on the store.

December Special Drops and Beyond

Alongside the launch, the December Special Drops event was also available on Epic Games Store. I remember grinding through the missions to earn exclusive rewards. It was a nice bonus that kept me playing through the holidays. The event offered a mix of cosmetic items and currency, and it was a great way to welcome new players from Epic.

Now, in 2026, PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS is still going strong on Epic Games Store. The crossplay community is vibrant, and I frequently run into players who started their journey on Epic. The game has evolved with new maps, weapons, and seasons, but the core experience remains: 100 players, one winner, and endless adrenaline.

If you're new to the game or thinking about trying it on Epic, I say go for it. The platform offers the same great service as Steam, and the crossplay ensures you'll never struggle to find a match. Plus, you might get lucky with a future promotion similar to the Founder's Pack.

So, here's to many more years of Battlegrounds. See you on the island! 🎮