Can I get Minecraft on my Switch if I already own it?

If you already own Minecraft on another platform, you can get it on your Nintendo Switch, but the process and requirements vary depending on the edition you own and the platform you’re coming from. Generally, if you own Minecraft: Nintendo Switch Edition, you can download the new version of Minecraft: Bedrock Edition for free, but if you own it on a different platform, such as Windows 10 or Xbox One, you may need to purchase it again or use a Microsoft account to access it.

Understanding Minecraft Editions and Ownership

To answer the question of getting Minecraft on your Switch if you already own it, it’s crucial to understand the different editions of Minecraft and how ownership works across platforms. Minecraft: Bedrock Edition is the version available on Nintendo Switch, Windows 10, Xbox One, and mobile devices, allowing for cross-platform play. However, owning one edition does not automatically grant access to another edition on a different platform.

Transitioning from Other Platforms

Players who already own Minecraft: Nintendo Switch Edition can download Minecraft: Bedrock Edition for free. This is a straightforward process that can be initiated from within the game or through the Nintendo eShop. However, for those transitioning from other platforms like Windows 10 or Xbox One, the process is less straightforward and may require purchasing the game again or using a Microsoft account to access Minecraft across different devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are answers to common questions related to getting Minecraft on your Nintendo Switch if you already own it, covering various scenarios and providing clarity on the ownership andaccess process.

1. Can I use my Minecraft account on Switch? Yes, you can use a Microsoft account to sign in to Minecraft on Nintendo Switch, enabling cross-play with other devices.

2. Do I have to buy Minecraft again for a second Switch? Yes, Minecraft must be purchased separately for each Nintendo Switch console, as the game is tied to the specific device it was purchased for.

3. Can I get Minecraft Java for free if I have Bedrock on Nintendo Switch? No, owning Minecraft: Bedrock Edition on Nintendo Switch does not grant free access to Minecraft: Java Edition on PC, Mac, or Linux.

4. How do I download Minecraft if I already bought it? You can download Minecraft again by signing into the Microsoft Store with the account used for the initial purchase and accessing your library.

5. Do I need to rebuy Minecraft? If you haven’t played for a while or you’ve switched devices, you do not have to buy Minecraft again if you’re using the same account and platform.

6. Why do I need a Microsoft account for Minecraft on Switch? A Microsoft account is necessary for cross-play and accessing Minecraft across different devices, but it’s not required to play the game on Nintendo Switch.

7. How do I link my Microsoft account to Minecraft on Switch? You can link your Microsoft account to Minecraft on Switch by signing in within the game and following the prompts.

8. Can you play Minecraft on Switch without a Microsoft account? Yes, a Microsoft account is optional and not required to play Minecraft on Nintendo Switch, but it’s necessary for cross-play.

9. Do you have to pay for both versions of Minecraft? If you already own one version of Minecraft on a Microsoft Secured Account (MSA), you’re entitled to the other version for free, but this applies specifically to PC versions.

10. Do I need to buy Minecraft twice for two kids? Yes, each player needs their own Minecraft account, so you’ll have to pay again for a separate account for your child.

11. Can I get a digital copy of a game I already own on Switch? With Nintendo Switch, you can purchase and download a digital copy of a physical game you own, but the physical game does not give you rights to a free digital copy.

12. Do I have to buy Minecraft for each Switch? Yes, Minecraft must be purchased separately for each Nintendo Switch console.

13. How do I download already purchased games on Switch? You can redownload games on Switch by launching the Nintendo eShop, selecting your user icon, and accessing the shop settings to find the option to redownload.

14. Why can’t I log into my Microsoft account on Minecraft? Ensure you’re using the correct email address and password, try clearing cache and cookies, or reset your Microsoft account password if necessary.

15. What happens if you don’t switch your Mojang account to Microsoft? If you use a Mojang account, you will need to migrate to a Microsoft account to continue playing Minecraft: Java Edition, as your account/profile will remain but you won’t be able to access the game until you complete the migration.