PUBG testing custom matches, may lock them behind paywall
Panning for gold.
One of the modes PUBG fans have wanted most desperately in the game is the ability to create custom matches. It seems their wishes have finally come true, as PUBG Corp has today announced the mode is in open beta on test servers.
But, of course, there's a catch.
Custom matchmaking will be available for free, but PUBG Corp mentioned in its update notes this could change in the future. "Creating custom matches won't have an associated cost during this phase," the developer stated. "However, due to the extremely large amount of resources required to allow custom games to be available to all players, we may change this in the future to ensure everything runs smoothly and the system remains sustainable long-term."
This seems to suggest that after the open beta test phase, custom matches will be placed behind some form of paywall. The details are currently unknown, but PUBG Corp has promised more information on the paywall will be revealed shortly. Perhaps somewhat bravely, the developer also mentioned it was currently "open to your feedback" on the subject.
Players may well wish to make the most of the open beta on test servers before the paywall hits. Custom matchmaking will allow players the ability to customise "every aspect of the game, from circle behaviour, item/vehicle spawn rates, to loadouts and more." Players will be able to create private or public matches, and even customise War Mode and Zombie Mode games.
During the open beta, custom matchmaking servers will be limited to 10,000 running games "to ensure a stable service." This has prompted some Steam users to question whether this will be enough for a game that currently averages nearly one million concurrent players. PUBG Corp seems to be aware this could be an issue, warning players "servers could become unreliable" if demand is too high.
Of course, it wouldn't be PUBG without a few bugs. PUBG Corp mentioned some elements of the open beta "might be rough". It will seek feedback on the custom matchmaking mode in Steam comments.