December 2025 Edition

Welcome to the December edition of our monthly meta analysis! We've analyzed the latest PUBG patch notes (Update 33.2), and there are some significant changes...

Key Weapon Changes

Based on the official patch notes, here are the winners and losers of this update:

The Buffs (Winners) 🟢

• M416: Horizontal recoil decreased by ~5%. This is huge. The M416 has always been a laser, and this makes it even easier to control for sprays.
• SLR: Vertical and Horizontal recoil decreased by ~5%. The SLR hits hard but was difficult to control. This buff might make it a top-tier DMR again.
• SKS: Horizontal recoil decreased by ~10% and muzzle velocity drop reduced. A massive buff for the SKS, potentially challenging the Mini14's dominance.

The Nerfs (Losers) 🔴

• AUG: Horizontal recoil increased by ~4%. The AUG has been the dominant AR for a while; this change aims to bring it in line with the Beryl and M416.
• VSS: Recoil increased significantly (Vert +10%, Horiz +5%) and the firing sound is now louder. A sad day for the silent assassins.

Current Meta Analysis

According to data from WinnerMeta, the Beryl M762 and M416 remain the most popular Assault Rifles. With the recent buff to the M416 and the slight nerf to the AUG, we expect the M416 to reclaim its spot as the undisputed king of 5.56mm ARs.

In the DMR category, the Mini14 and Mk12 have been dominating due to their stability. However, with the significant recoil reductions to the SLR and SKS, we might see a shift towards these higher-damage 7.62mm options.

What's Next?

We are monitoring the live server data closely. Next week, we will return with a detailed statistical analysis to see if these on-paper changes actually translated to win rates and pick rates in the game.

Stay tuned and get that Chicken Dinner! 🍗

Data Source: We used weapon statistics from WinnerMeta. Check them out for real-time PUBG data!