PUBG Mobile Unbanned in Bangladesh After Four Years

It was once unthinkable to ban top mobile games, but as we've seen with cases like Marvel Snap, it's now a reality. In Bangladesh, popular battle royale games PUBG Mobile and Free Fire were previously removed from app stores due to concerns about their impact on the mental health of young players. However, in a surprising development, PUBG Mobile has been unbanned in Bangladesh after nearly four years. This reversal is significant not only because it allows fans to play without the fear of legal repercussions but also highlights how seriously the initial ban was enforced by the authorities.

The seriousness of the ban was evident as recently as 2022 when a PUBG Mobile LAN tournament at a community center in the Chuadanga district was raided by authorities. This move was met with backlash from the competitive gaming community and those advocating for civil liberties in Bangladesh.

Victory for gaming and freedom? While the unbanning of PUBG Mobile in Bangladesh is commendable, it may not have a profound impact given that many players have moved on to other games. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder of the paternalistic approach some authorities take towards controlling what players can enjoy. The ripple effects of such decisions can be seen in the broader context of mobile gaming, such as the TikTok ban and PUBG Mobile's challenges in India, illustrating how mobile gaming is intertwined with political dynamics.

For most of us, these restrictions are not a daily concern. If you're looking to celebrate your freedom to play your favorite games, why not check out our latest list of the top five new mobile games to try this week?