Can You Play Minecraft Bedrock Multiplayer without Realms?
Minecraft Bedrock edition has become increasingly popular among players, offering a cross-platform gaming experience like no other. While playing with friends is half the fun, many players have wondered whether it’s possible to play Minecraft Bedrock multiplayer without Realms. In this article, we’ll dive into the answer and explore the options available.
Direct Answer: Can You Play Minecraft Bedrock Multiplayer without Realms?
Yes, you can play Minecraft Bedrock multiplayer without Realms. There are a few ways to achieve this:
• Local Area Network (LAN): By setting up a LAN game, you can invite friends to play with you directly without requiring a Realms subscription.
• Split-Screen Mode: Playing on the same device as a local co-op is another option for multiplayer gameplay without Realms.
However, these methods come with some limitations and requirements. We’ll cover the details later in this article.
What are the Limitations?
Before diving into the methods, it’s essential to understand the limitations of playing Minecraft Bedrock multiplayer without Realms:
• Limited Distance: LAN games can only be played over a local network, whereas Realms allows for online play with friends anywhere in the world.
• No Persistent Worlds: Local games do not allow for persistent worlds, meaning progress is lost when the game is closed. Realms provides a more comprehensive experience with persistent worlds and shared game data.
• Technical Requirements: Some technical requirements are needed to set up and play LAN games, which may not be feasible for everyone.
LAN Games: A Basic Setup
To set up a LAN game in Minecraft Bedrock, follow these basic steps:
- Launch the Game: Open Minecraft Bedrock and select the "Create a new world" option.
- Set Up the Game: Configure your game settings, such as difficulty, game mode, and number of players.
- LAN Options: Enable the "LAN" option under "Settings" > "Game" > "LAN". This will allow the game to connect to the local network.
- Invite Friends: Share the IP address and port number displayed in the game’s LAN settings with your friends to connect.
Split-Screen Mode: A Convenient Option
Split-Screen Mode allows multiple players to play on the same device without requiring a separate setup:
- Launch the Game: Open Minecraft Bedrock and select the "Local Area Network" option.
- Create a World: Create a new world with the desired game settings.
- Select the Number of Players: Choose the number of players you want to play with in Split-Screen Mode.
- Start the Game: Begin the game with your friends and enjoy local co-op play.
Conclusion
While it’s possible to play Minecraft Bedrock multiplayer without Realms, there are limitations to consider. LAN games and Split-Screen Mode provide an alternative way to play with friends, but persistent worlds and online play require a Realms subscription. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before choosing your gaming experience.
FAQs
Here are eight frequently asked questions and answers:
Q: Do I need a Realms subscription to play Minecraft Bedrock multiplayer with friends?
A: No, you can play with friends without a Realms subscription, but you’ll need to set up a LAN game or use Split-Screen Mode.
Q: Can I play with friends across different platforms?
A: No, Realms is only compatible across platforms that have a Bedrock edition, such as PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. If you want to play with friends across different platforms, consider using a third-party online gaming platform.
Q: How many players can I invite to a LAN game?
A: The number of players you can invite to a LAN game is limited by the hardware and network connectivity. Typically, up to 8-10 players can join a LAN game, depending on the environment.
Q: Is a Realms subscription required for online play?
A: Yes, a Realms subscription is required for online play with friends, allowing you to connect with players across different platforms.
Q: Can I play Realms on all platforms?
A: Not all platforms support Realms. Currently, Realms is available on PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Q: Can I invite friends to a LAN game on the go?
A: No, LAN games require a fixed IP address and network connection, making it difficult to play with friends on the go. Consider using a third-party online gaming platform for cross-platform play.
Q: What is the maximum number of players allowed in a Realms world?
A: The maximum number of players allowed in a Realms world is 50, allowing for large-scale multiplayer adventures.
Q: Can I play with friends across different regions with Realms?
A: Yes, Realms allows for online play with friends across different regions, making it possible to connect with friends worldwide.
Table: Realms Features vs. Local LAN Games
| Feature | Realms | LAN Games |
|---|---|---|
| Persistent Worlds | ||
| Cross-Platform Play | ||
| Multiplayer Support | 50 players | Up to 8-10 players |
| Online Play | ||
| Technical Requirements | Requires a stable internet connection | Requires a fixed IP address and network connection |
In conclusion, while playing Minecraft Bedrock multiplayer without Realms is possible, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option. LAN games and Split-Screen Mode provide an alternative way to play with friends, but persistent worlds and online play require a Realms subscription.