When PUBG Mobile launched on March 19, 2018, it didn’t just enter the gaming world—it flipped it upside down. This battle royale sensation has not only defined mobile gaming but also built a thriving esports scene. Seven years, 1,657 tournaments, and a jaw-dropping $100 million prize pool later, PUBG Mobile reigns supreme in mobile esports. Let’s dive into the details.
PUBG Mobile Makes History
The big news? PUBG Mobile is the first mobile game to surpass a $100 million all-time prize pool. That’s right—a mobile game competing with giants across PC, console, and mobile platforms. It now ranks fifth overall in prize pool size:
1: Dota 2 ($333 million)
2: Counter-Strike
3: Fortnite
4: League of Legends
5: PUBG Mobile
Other mobile competitors? They’re playing catch-up:
- Honor of Kings: $88 million
- Free Fire: $23.5 million
- Mobile Legends Bang Bang: $22 million
How PUBG Mobile Became an Esports Powerhouse
2018: Starting Small
In its first year, Tencent and Krafton invested $868,000 into tournaments. Modest regional events hinted at the game’s potential—and fans loved it.
2019: Growth Spurt
Prize pools skyrocketed to $4 million. International tournaments started popping up, and the player base exploded. PUBG Mobile wasn’t just a game anymore; it was a global phenomenon.
2020: Game-Changing Moves
The introduction of PUBG Mobile Pro Leagues (PMPLs) and the Global Championship (PMGC) brought a $9 million prize pool. The competitive structure was solidified, laying the foundation for future success.
2021: Breaking Records
With a $23 million prize pool, this year was monumental. The PMGC alone boasted $6 million, while the first-ever World Invitational (PMWI) added even more excitement. Peak viewership? 3.8 million—a record!
2022: Bigger and Better
The prize pool swelled to $24.8 million, with the PMWI and PMGC dominating the scene. PUBG Mobile had officially cemented its dominance in mobile esports.
2023: New Horizons
The $22 million prize pool introduced new events like the PUBG Mobile Super League (PMSL) in Southeast Asia. Innovation? Check.
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2024: A Strategic Shift
Although the prize pool dipped to $16 million, PUBG Mobile maintained its global appeal with three international tournaments. Adaptation remains its key strength.
What’s Next for PUBG Mobile Esports?
The 2025 roadmap is here, and it’s promising:
- Prize Pool: $10 million
- Events: Three global tournaments and several regional competitions
- Surprises: A new map launching in March 2025 to celebrate the game’s seventh anniversary.
Why PUBG Mobile Stands Out
- Global Community: Players from every corner of the world make it a true melting pot.
- Diverse Competitions: From local PMPLs to global championships, there’s something for everyone.
- Constant Innovation: Fresh features, maps, and formats keep the excitement alive.
- Accessibility: No high-end PC? No problem. PUBG Mobile brings esports to your pocket.
Conclusion
PUBG Mobile isn’t just a game; it’s a revolution. By breaking barriers and setting records, it’s leading the charge in mobile esports. The future? It looks brighter than ever.
So, whether you’re a casual player or a die-hard fan, one thing is clear—PUBG Mobile isn’t going anywhere. It’s here to dominate, inspire, and evolve.
