PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) continues to be a top choice for battle royale enthusiasts, and its Xbox version has garnered a huge player base. As the game evolves, players are always on the lookout for new tactics to gain an edge. One of these advanced strategies that has intrigued many players is the ability to “catapult” — using in-game physics to launch vehicles or players into the air for strategic advantage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down how to catapult in PUBG on Xbox, the benefits, when to use it, and some tips and tricks to perfect this technique.

What is Catapulting in PUBG?

In PUBG, the term “catapulting” refers to leveraging the in-game physics system to launch a player or vehicle rapidly into the air. This technique can be used for various reasons:

Escaping tight situations.
Getting a bird’s eye view of the battlefield.
Reaching areas quickly that are otherwise difficult to access.
Potentially disorienting enemies by pulling off unexpected aerial maneuvers.

Although it may seem like a quirky or unnecessary trick, mastering this tactic can provide advantages in certain combat scenarios, especially when used strategically.

The Physics Behind Catapulting

PUBG’s in-game physics engine is based on the Unreal Engine, which simulates realistic environments, collisions, and object interactions. Over time, players have found ways to manipulate this engine for creative gameplay tactics. One of these tactics is the catapult, which takes advantage of vehicle physics and terrain collisions.

When a vehicle interacts with a particular type of terrain or obstacle at high speed, the game engine can glitch or react unpredictably, launching the vehicle or player into the air. While this might initially seem like a bug, it has become a recognized and accepted aspect of PUBG’s dynamic gameplay.

Common Scenarios Where Catapulting Occurs

Hitting uneven terrain: Driving at high speed over jagged or sloped surfaces.
Colliding with objects: Crashing into small rocks, fences, or even other vehicles at the right angle.
Using grenades or explosions: Detonating a grenade under or near a vehicle can send it flying.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Catapult in PUBG Xbox

While catapulting often occurs by accident, it’s possible to intentionally pull off this move with the right setup. Here’s how you can reliably catapult in PUBG on Xbox:

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

Not all vehicles in PUBG react the same way to terrain and objects. Some vehicles are better suited for catapulting than others due to their speed, weight, and handling. The most commonly used vehicles for this tactic include:

Motorcycles (both two-wheel and three-wheel variants): These are lightweight and can reach high speeds quickly, making them ideal for catapulting off uneven surfaces.
Buggy: The buggy’s light frame and high speed make it a suitable candidate for this trick.
UAZ (open-top or closed-top): While heavier, the UAZ’s speed and durability make it a good option for more controlled catapults.

Avoid using large or slow vehicles like the Dacia or Van, as they tend to have less dramatic reactions to terrain and obstacles.

2. Find the Right Terrain

The most important element of catapulting is the terrain. Look for uneven surfaces, rocky inclines, or small hills. The goal is to find an area where the vehicle’s wheels will hit an obstacle or edge at an awkward angle, causing it to flip or launch into the air. Some ideal terrain features include:

Cliffs with sharp drop-offs: Driving off these at full speed can result in significant air time.
Rocky hills: These often have uneven surfaces that can send your vehicle flying.
Bridges with side railings: The railings of certain bridges can act as ramps, especially when hit at a diagonal angle.

3. Build Speed

To effectively catapult, speed is your ally. Accelerate your vehicle as much as possible before approaching the terrain or object you plan to use. This means finding a stretch of road or flat ground where you can build momentum. Vehicles like the motorcycle and buggy can reach top speeds quickly, but make sure to avoid losing control, as flipping the vehicle unintentionally can ruin your attempt.

4. Angle the Approach

Once you’ve built enough speed, approach the terrain or object at a slight angle. Coming at an obstacle head-on can result in a dead stop or minimal air, but hitting it at a 30 to 45-degree angle will often cause the vehicle to react unpredictably, launching it upwards.

5. Control the Launch

As soon as your vehicle leaves the ground, you’ll need to control its trajectory. PUBG’s vehicle controls allow you to tilt in mid-air by pressing certain buttons on your Xbox controller:

Tilt forward or backward: Use the left stick to tilt the vehicle’s nose up or down.
Tilt left or right: Use the right stick to roll the vehicle left or right.

Mastering this control is essential, as landing properly can be the difference between a successful catapult and crashing. If you’re using a motorcycle, try to land on both wheels to avoid a crash that could deal damage or knock you out of the game.

6. Use Explosives for an Extra Boost

If you want to take catapulting to the next level, try incorporating explosives. By throwing a grenade under or near your vehicle just as you launch off the terrain, you can significantly increase the height and distance of your catapult. However, this requires precise timing to avoid damaging yourself or your vehicle.

7. Practice Makes Perfect

The art of catapulting in PUBG requires practice. Start by experimenting in less populated areas of the map to get a feel for the right angles and terrain features. Over time, you’ll learn how to control your vehicle mid-air and perfect your landings.

When to Use Catapulting in PUBG Xbox

While catapulting is undoubtedly a fun trick, it also has practical applications in PUBG. Knowing when to use this tactic can provide you with a tactical advantage. Here are some scenarios where catapulting can be useful:

1. Escaping a Dangerous Situation

If you find yourself pinned down by enemy fire or stuck in the blue zone, catapulting can help you escape quickly. By launching your vehicle into the air, you can cover large distances in a short amount of time, potentially avoiding damage or getting to safety.

2. Gaining High Ground

In PUBG, high ground is often key to victory. Catapulting can allow you to quickly reach elevated areas that would otherwise take longer to access on foot. From here, you can scout the surrounding area, spot enemies, and set up ambushes.

3. Ambushing or Confusing Enemies

Nothing throws off an enemy’s aim more than a flying vehicle. By catapulting into the air during a firefight, you can create chaos and confusion. This can give you the upper hand, as enemies will have difficulty tracking your movements. Plus, landing near them unexpectedly can set you up for a surprise attack.

4. Reaching Unconventional Loot Spots

In some cases, loot can spawn in hard-to-reach places. By catapulting into the air, you may be able to access areas that are typically difficult to reach on foot or by vehicle, giving you a better chance of securing high-tier loot.

Risks and Downsides of Catapulting

While catapulting can be a valuable tactic, it’s not without risks. Here are some potential downsides to consider before using this strategy:

1. Vehicle Damage

PUBG’s vehicles take damage from collisions, and catapulting can cause significant wear and tear. If your vehicle sustains too much damage, it may explode, killing or severely injuring you in the process. Always check your vehicle’s health before attempting a catapult, and be prepared to bail if things go wrong.

2. Personal Injury

If you’re not careful with your landing, you could take fall damage or get knocked out of the game entirely. Be sure to practice controlling your vehicle in mid-air to minimize the risk of injury.

3. Drawing Attention

Catapulting is not a subtle tactic. Launching a vehicle into the air will likely draw the attention of nearby players, who may use the opportunity to take shots at you. If you’re in a high-traffic area, consider whether the benefits of catapulting outweigh the risks of attracting unwanted attention.

4. Unpredictability

While you can control your vehicle to some extent, catapulting is inherently unpredictable. The physics engine may behave unexpectedly, causing your vehicle to spin out of control or crash. Always be prepared for the possibility that things won’t go as planned.

Tips for Catapulting Success

To improve your catapulting skills and reduce the risks, follow these tips:

Choose the right vehicle: Stick with light, fast vehicles like motorcycles and buggies for the best results.
Practice in safe areas: Experiment with catapulting in less populated regions of the map to hone your skills without the threat of enemy fire.
Keep an eye on vehicle health: Always check your vehicle’s health before attempting a catapult, and avoid launching if your vehicle is already damaged.
Perfect your mid-air control: Spend time practicing how to control your vehicle in mid-air to ensure smooth landings and avoid crashes.
Use catapulting strategically: Don’t catapult just for the sake of it — always consider whether it will provide a tactical advantage in your current situation.

Here are five FAQs related to how to catapult in PUBG on Xbox:

1. What is the best vehicle for catapulting in PUBG on Xbox?

The best vehicles for catapulting are typically lightweight and fast ones like the motorcycle (two-wheel and three-wheel variants) and the buggy. These vehicles are agile and respond better to uneven terrain, which makes them ideal for catapulting. Heavier vehicles like the UAZ can also work but may not launch as dramatically as the lighter ones.

2. What kind of terrain should I look for when attempting to catapult?

To successfully catapult, you need to find uneven terrain, sharp inclines, or obstacles like rocks or bridge railings. The goal is to hit these at a high speed and at an angle, causing the vehicle to flip or launch into the air. Hills with sharp drop-offs or rocky inclines are ideal for achieving the best results.

3. Does catapulting cause damage to my vehicle or character?

Yes, catapulting can cause damage to both your vehicle and character if not executed properly. Vehicles take damage from rough landings or collisions, and if a vehicle is heavily damaged, it may explode. Similarly, a poorly executed landing can result in fall damage to your character. It’s essential to monitor vehicle health and practice landing safely.

4. Can I control the vehicle in mid-air while catapulting?

Yes, you can control the vehicle in mid-air using the left stick and right stick on the Xbox controller. The left stick controls forward or backward tilting, while the right stick allows you to roll the vehicle left or right. Mastering these controls is crucial for ensuring a smooth landing and avoiding damage.

5. When should I use the catapulting technique in PUBG?

Catapulting can be useful in various scenarios:

Escaping enemy fire: If you’re pinned down, catapulting can help you escape quickly.
Reaching high ground: It allows you to reach elevated positions for better tactical advantage.
Ambushing enemies: The unpredictable movement can confuse enemies, giving you an edge in combat.
Navigating difficult terrain: It can be helpful for reaching loot or covering large distances quickly. However, it should be used strategically to avoid drawing too much attention.

Conclusion

Catapulting in PUBG on Xbox is a fun and exhilarating tactic that can provide a competitive edge when used correctly. By mastering vehicle control, understanding the game’s physics, and knowing when to employ this technique, you can use catapulting to escape danger, ambush enemies, or reach high ground.

Whether you’re looking to improve your mobility on the battlefield or simply enjoy the thrill of launching yourself into the air, learning how to catapult in PUBG Xbox is a valuable skill for any player. With practice and patience, you’ll soon be pulling off incredible stunts and leaving your opponents in awe.