The original battle royale king is stepping back into the spotlight. PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS is returning to the Esports World Cup in 2025, and this year’s looking just as intense, if not more, than the last.
From August 12–16, Riyadh will once again play host to 24 of the world’s best squads, all dropping in for their shot at the massive $2 million prize pool.
PUBG: Battlegrounds at EWC 25 is HERE.
Here’s everything you need to know to be a part of the action! ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/rLimuexagD
— EWC Extra (@EWC_Extra) August 8, 2025
Last Year’s Mayhem
In 2024, the EWC PUBG stage saw Soniqs absolutely tear through the competition – three chicken dinners, over 60 kills, and their first-ever S-tier title. It was dominance with a capital D. But they won’t be there to defend their crown. The org announced it’s parting ways with its PUBG roster, marking the end of an era after a run filled with trophies, insane plays, and that unforgettable win at EWC 2024.
End of an incredible era ♥️ pic.twitter.com/ogKxI5Ie9F
— Esports World Cup (@EWC_EN) January 14, 2025
Participating Teams and Formats
This year, the throne is wide open, and every team in the lobby knows it. Big names like Gen.G, Team Liquid, Twisted Minds, Natus Vincere, and Virtus.pro are all lining up to claim it.
Participating Teams | Image via esportsworldcup.com
The format’s simple but brutal: three groups of eight teams in the Group Stage, then the top 16 make it to the Finals. Score the most points there, and you’re crowned the best PUBG team in the world. Easy to explain, not so easy to do.
Tournament Format | Image Credit: Esports World Cup
The OG Battle Royale Still Holds Its Ground
Even with rivals like Apex Legends, Fortnite, and Warzone grabbing headlines, PUBG keeps its gritty, grounded style. No superpowers, no cartoon chaos, just tense rotations, calculated pushes, and that nerve-wracking panic when the safe zone shrinks. It’s still one of the most unpredictable esports to watch.
What’s at Stake
It’s not just about bragging rights. The exact $2 Millions prize pool for PUBG at EWC 2025 hasn’t been revealed yet, but teams will also be fighting for valuable Esports World Cup Club Points. These points contribute to each organisation’s overall standing across all EWC events, and can make a huge difference in the race for the ultimate club championship.
Even if a team misses out on the top spot, every placement still matters, both for potential prize money and for racking up those crucial points. Expect squads to push hard right until the last circle closes.
When and Where to Watch
Fans can catch all the action live on the official EWC Twitch and YouTube channels. For those keen to experience it in person, tickets are available via the official EWC ticketing site.