Custom skins in PUBG allow players to personalize characters, weapons, and gear, and creating custom skins requires external tools to edit and replace textures. PUBG doesn’t have an official workshop or skin upload system. However, you can build a unique style using official skins and smart combinations.
This guide will walk you through what “custom skins” really mean in PUBG, what you can safely do, and how to create custom skins.
Can you really create custom skins in PUBG?
The short answer is that player-made skins aren’t officially supported. PUBG does not have a system that lets custom textures appear in standard matchmaking.
Most of the cosmetics you see in matches are created and controlled by the developers. These skins usually require external tools to edit or replace texture files on your own PC client. They can make your character or weapons look unique and help you stand out visually on the battleground. Therefore, most players would love to go beyond the standard battle pass and event cosmetics and create truly custom skins. However, it also sits outside what the developers officially support and can carry account and security risks if you are not careful.
How to Create “Custom” Skins with Official Systems
Even if you never modified the game files, you can still create a unique look.
Mix and match outfits
PUBG offers a wide variety of clothing and gear items. Most players just wear a full set. To “create your own skin style”: combine items from different sets. You are not changing the textures themselves, but you do create a unique look that other players will start to recognise.
Weapon skins and rarity
Weapon skins are another way to express a custom identity. You can focus on your main weapons. Then, try to collect a few skins in the same style family. Over time, your “loadout + outfit” combo becomes your personal brand, even if everything is officially created.
Contraband System & Upgradable Skins
Upgradable weapon skins include multiple styles, animations, and patterns. These upgrades allow players to choose different appearances for the same weapon, giving a sense of personalisation using official content.
Preset Slots
PUBG also provides preset loadouts for outfits and weapon styles. Players can save different combinations and quickly switch between them before a match. This makes it easier to maintain several “custom” looks without any modding.
How to Create Custom Skins with External Tools
Extracting Game Files
Players use external programs to unpack the game’s PAK files. These archives contain texture maps, models, and UI assets used by the client.
Once extracted, the relevant image files—usually in formats like .uasset or .uexp—can be located and prepared for editing.
Editing the Textures
First, you need to open the extracted texture in Photoshop or GIMP. Then, modify the design with custom colors, patterns, or graphics. Finally, export the file. Please keep the same format and resolution as the original to avoid glitches when reimporting.
Repacking the Files
After designing the skin, you must be reconverted and repacked into a new PAK file. The goal is to replace the original textures locally so the game displays the modified version during play. Improper repacking can break the game client or cause crashes.
Applying the Custom Skin in Game
Launch the game and check your custom skin in action. These custom skins are client-side only. Keep in mind that PUBG may detect file modifications, so always use custom skins responsibly.
In Conclusion
You can build a unique identity using official cosmetics, rare passes, and smart outfit + weapon combinations. Some PC players do use texture mods to create true custom skins. However, always remain cautious and verify whether such modifications align with PUBG’s policies to avoid unwanted penalties.