KRAFTON (CEO Kim Chang-han) has released the new Light Machine Gun (LMG) 'RPD' in Update 42.3 for 'PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS' (hereinafter PUBG). The update also introduces 'PUBG: Playgrounds,' a new hub where players can access user-generated content in one place.

This update focuses on expanding the utility and operational variety of the LMG weapon class by adding the RPD and adjusting reload times and recoil for all LMGs. The RPD is a fully automatic LMG that uses 7.62mm ammunition and can be found on all maps. It deals 43 damage, has a fire rate of 750 rounds per minute, and supports up to 6x scopes, magazines, and stocks.

Reload times for all LMGs have been reduced by 25%. Vertical recoil has been smoothed out by lowering the peak recoil in the middle of firing and adjusting the latter stages to prevent sudden spikes, while horizontal recoil variance has been reduced by approximately 30% to improve handling stability. Firing while in a vehicle has been updated so that bullet spread and recoil increase based on movement speed.

'PUBG: Playgrounds' is being introduced to the PC version as a hub where players can browse various user-created modes and jump directly into recommended matches. Previously, players had to use external websites or manually set up custom matches, but this new feature makes it easier to access these modes directly from the PUBG play menu.

Modes featured in 'PUBG: Playgrounds' will be selected through various channels, including developer curation and official contests, with new content added on a monthly basis. The 30 winning entries from the global creative mode contest with CurseForge, announced on the 5th, will also be officially registered in 'PUBG: Playgrounds.' KRAFTON plans to introduce high-quality modes to a wider audience, fostering closer connections between creators and players while invigorating the creative ecosystem.

Features to improve the player experience have also been added. A dedicated team selection UI allows hosts and players to select or change teams more intuitively. The results screen now displays the winning team, round-by-round results, and final match outcomes, and device icons have been updated for better readability and consistency.

A PC-exclusive minigame, 'POBG,' is also being introduced, allowing players to play during server maintenance. The game tracks individual high scores, and players can continue their session even after maintenance concludes.

More details can be found on the official PUBG cafe.