The PUBG live server on PC has just received patch 6.1, the first update in Season 6. Among other additions, the highlight of this season is a new desert-themed map called Karakin. Karakin is PUBG’s smallest map yet, with a 2x2 km layout. That’s much smaller than Sanhok (4x4), the previous record holder. Karakin is set in a North African town, and is designed to mix Miramar’s long-distance engagements with a tighter, more hectic feel. Due to its size, Karakin is limited to just 64 players. Karakin comes with its own mechanic and tools. The new Black Zone forces players out of cover by bombing a random area, levelling buildings to the ground. This is the first map in PUBG to alter its layout mid-match. More than that, Karakin is also PUBG’s first map to offer - albeit limited - destruction. Certain walls and floors can be breached using the new Sticky Bomb throwable, which creates new sight lines, not to mention make storming buildings more exciting.
Patch 6.1 also introduces bullet penetration, available only on Karakin for now. Certain soft walls allow for bullets to pass through them, which is another dynamic not available on other maps. Alongside the new content, the update is introducing a new feature to improve matchmaking times. From time to time, PUBG will rotate certain maps in and out to make things interesting. Karakin is going to replace Vikendi for now, which means the latter won’t be available through public matchmaking. Vikendi will remain out of rotation as PUBG Corp. works on a bigger design overhaul. As always, the new season brings a new Battle Pass. Shakedown is its name, and it offers free and premium tiers themed after the new map. Patch 6.1 comes in at 8.7GB. Hit up the official blog for the full set of patch notes.