PUBG Update 43.1: Kicks, Water Speed Buffs, and Jujutsu Kaisen Arrive

PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS developer Krafton released Update 43.1 on September 9, introducing a new kick melee mechanic alongside a Jujutsu Kaisen collaboration on Erangel. It seems the developer decided that after seven years of shooting, players finally deserved the right to physically boot their problems away.

The update introduces a dedicated "Kick" action to unarmed combat across all modes, according to the official patch notes. The mechanic operates as either a Standing Kick or a Jump Kick (triggered by right-clicking on PC or pressing LT on consoles), dealing more damage and knockback than a standard punch.

Beyond bruised shins, the kick serves as an environmental utility tool. Players can use it to instantly shatter windows, wooden doors, wooden fences, jars, and tires, or simply kick open indestructible doors to make a louder, more dramatic entrance.

For those seeking a wet retreat, swimming and diving speeds have been increased by 25%. This adjustment builds on recent updates that introduced the ability to use sidearms and throw balls on the water's surface.

The other half of the patch is the Jujutsu Kaisen crossover. The collaboration brings themed elements to Erangel, including a JJK-themed warehouse, decorated care packages, and a special gift box that reveals a Satoru Gojo statue complete with a custom visual effect.

The details

• Release date: September 9 (Patch notes)
• New mechanics: Standing and Jump Kicks, destructible object interactions
• Water balance: Swimming and diving speeds increased by 25%
• Crossover content: Jujutsu Kaisen decorations and Satoru Gojo statue on Erangel

Why it matters

By expanding basic movement and environmental interaction, Krafton is continuing to tweak the moment-to-moment flow of a veteran battle royale. Crossovers keep the lobbies populated, but mechanical updates like faster swimming and physical shield-breaking are what alter the actual tactical math.