Can You Play Multiplayer on Minecraft for Free?
The simple answer is yes, you can play Minecraft multiplayer for free, but it depends on the specific version of Minecraft you’re using and the method you choose for connecting with others. While some options require a purchase or subscription, many avenues allow you to enjoy the collaborative and social experience of multiplayer without spending extra money. Let’s break down the different scenarios.
Minecraft Multiplayer: Free vs. Paid Options
The key to understanding free multiplayer in Minecraft is distinguishing between the different editions of the game and the various methods of playing with others. Here’s a breakdown:
Free Multiplayer Options
- Public Servers (Java Edition): Minecraft Java Edition offers a significant advantage with access to numerous public servers. These servers are often run by communities or individuals and host various game modes like survival, creative, and mini-games. Joining these servers is completely free, and you can find a wide range of experiences to suit your preferences. You’ll need an internet connection and an account, but beyond the initial game purchase, there are no extra costs to play on these servers.
- Local Area Network (LAN) Games (Both Java and Bedrock Editions): If you and your friends are on the same local network, you can play Minecraft together without needing a paid subscription. This works by one player hosting a world on their computer, and other players on the same network can connect directly. This works for both Java and Bedrock editions. While not technically “online”, LAN games offer a free way to play multiplayer in the same physical space or network.
Paid Multiplayer Options
- Minecraft Realms: Minecraft Realms is a subscription-based service from Mojang that provides private servers, allowing a small group of friends to play together in a safe and controlled environment. Unlike public servers, Realms are not free; they require a monthly fee. However, they offer several advantages like greater control over the world, simplicity in setup, and no need to host your own server. Realms are available on both Bedrock and Java Editions.
- Nintendo Switch Online Subscription (Bedrock Edition): If you want to play online multiplayer on Minecraft Bedrock Edition for the Nintendo Switch, you’ll require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. This is a requirement for any online multiplayer game on the console, including Minecraft, and extends to playing on Realms as well.
The Key Takeaway
While there are definitely paid options for enhanced experiences and ease of use, playing Minecraft multiplayer is absolutely feasible without any extra costs, particularly with public servers on the Java Edition or LAN play in both editions. So, despite some confusion, you do not have to pay to play multiplayer, as long as you have a suitable method available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Minecraft Multiplayer
To give you a full understanding of multiplayer options, here are 15 FAQs that cover various common questions about playing Minecraft with friends:
1. Do I need to buy Minecraft to play multiplayer?
Yes, you must purchase Minecraft to play multiplayer. Although there’s a free version of Minecraft Classic (playable in your web browser), this version is severely limited and lacks multiplayer features and recent updates. The standard game is a one-time purchase, either the Java Edition or the Bedrock Edition (or both in the bundle).
2. What’s the difference between Minecraft Java and Bedrock for multiplayer?
Java Edition is more flexible for server hosting and offers free access to many public servers. Bedrock Edition has cross-platform compatibility, meaning you can play with others on consoles, mobile devices, and Windows 10/11. Bedrock is more locked down and requires a Nintendo Online subscription on Nintendo Switch for online play.
3. How can I join a public server on Minecraft Java Edition?
To join a public server, follow these steps: In the Minecraft launcher, click on Multiplayer. Then, click “Add Server“. You’ll then need to enter the server name and address (provided by the server host). Click Done and then select the server from the list to join it.
4. How do I set up a LAN game on Minecraft?
For LAN games, one player hosts a world. In the game menu, select “Open to LAN“. Choose game mode, and then click “Start LAN World“. Other players on the same network can then click on “Multiplayer“, and the host’s world should be discoverable on the list.
5. What is Minecraft Realms, and does it cost money?
Minecraft Realms is a paid, subscription-based service that lets you host your own private multiplayer server for a smaller group of friends. Yes, it requires a monthly subscription. You do not need to pay to access other servers, however.
6. Does Minecraft Bedrock Edition require a subscription for online multiplayer?
Not always. For Xbox and PC, you do not need an Xbox Live or Game Pass subscription to play with others. However, if you wish to play online on the Nintendo Switch, you will need to subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online.
7. Why can’t I play multiplayer?
Check your game’s multiplayer settings to ensure they are enabled. Make sure that the game has access to multiplayer. If playing on a console, check your network connection and confirm any online service memberships.
8. How do I enable multiplayer for my child’s Minecraft account?
You need to access the parent account settings for the console or system you are using. For instance, on Xbox, go to account.xbox.com, find your child’s profile, and change the “Add Friends” and “Join Multiplayer Games” permissions to allow them to play multiplayer.
9. Is it safe for kids to play Minecraft multiplayer?
While Minecraft is considered generally safe, multiplayer can expose children to inappropriate content or language from other players. It’s recommended that you supervise their online interactions and consider playing on private servers or Realms for younger children.
10. What is the minimum age to play Minecraft multiplayer?
Minecraft is rated Everyone 10+ by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) due to “fantasy violence”. However, young children may need parental oversight for playing multiplayer.
11. Can two people play on one screen (split-screen) on Minecraft?
Yes, Bedrock Edition on consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch supports split-screen multiplayer. To enable it, connect a second controller, and in the game, press the appropriate button to enable split-screen mode.
12. How do I share my Minecraft world with a friend?
You can only share worlds through either by hosting a game for someone on your same network, using Realms, or with custom server hosting. You can not directly give someone your world files. To share via Realms, find the world in the “Realms” section, go to “Members”, and then click “Share link” to get an invitation link.
13. Why do I sometimes have to buy Minecraft again?
This often happens if you are using a different Microsoft/Mojang account than the one used to purchase the game originally. Ensure that you are using the correct account. You might also have purchased a different version of the game. If you’ve changed the platform or tried to access it on a different account, the game may need to be purchased again for a new license.
14. Can I use mods on multiplayer?
Mods are only available on the Java Edition. If you’re playing on a public server, whether mods are allowed depends on the server’s rules. For LAN games, mods must be installed on both the host’s and the joining clients’ computers. Bedrock Edition only allows add-ons, not full mods.
15. Is Minecraft good for the brain?
Yes, Minecraft is widely considered beneficial for cognitive development, fostering skills such as problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, and spatial reasoning. Its open-ended nature allows for creative expression and helps with strategic and logical thinking.
By using a mix of public servers, LAN games, and private hosting, playing Minecraft multiplayer without spending extra money is perfectly viable, opening the door to many hours of shared fun and adventures.