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Does PS4 Bedrock Have Servers? A Deep Dive

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Yes, Minecraft on the PlayStation 4 (PS4) is the Bedrock Edition, and therefore, it does have servers. However, joining servers on the PS4 Bedrock Edition isn’t as straightforward as it is on other platforms like PC or mobile. This article will explain how PS4 players can access servers, the limitations they face, and alternative methods to enhance their multiplayer experience.

Understanding Minecraft Bedrock Edition on PS4

The Bedrock Edition of Minecraft is designed to offer a unified experience across multiple platforms, including Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Windows 10, and mobile devices, and of course, the PlayStation family of consoles. This edition allows for cross-platform play, meaning you can play with friends regardless of their device. However, Sony’s implementation on the PS4 imposes some restrictions compared to other Bedrock platforms.

Official Featured Servers

The most straightforward way to join servers on PS4 Bedrock is through the official “Featured Servers”. These servers are pre-approved by Mojang and are accessible directly from the game’s menu. They offer a variety of gameplay experiences, including:

Survival: Classic Minecraft gameplay with resource gathering, building, and surviving against monsters.
Mini-Games: Fun, shorter games like Hunger Games, Skywars, and Bed Wars.
Creative: A mode focused on building and creating without resource limitations.

Limitations of Official Servers

While Featured Servers offer a convenient option, they also have limitations:

Limited Selection: The number of Featured Servers is limited, reducing choice.
Curated Content: You’re restricted to the experiences that Mojang has approved and curated.
No Custom Servers: You cannot directly add custom servers by IP address in the official PS4 Bedrock Edition, unlike the PC or mobile versions.

Workarounds for Joining Custom Servers

Despite the limitations, there are workarounds that PS4 players can use to join custom Bedrock servers. These methods often involve using third-party applications or manipulating network settings.

Using DNS Server Manipulation

One popular method involves changing your PS4’s Domain Name System (DNS) settings. This allows you to redirect server traffic through a custom proxy server, which can then connect to your desired Minecraft Bedrock server.

Find a Reliable DNS Server: Several online services offer DNS servers specifically configured for Minecraft Bedrock custom server access.
Change PS4 DNS Settings: Go to your PS4’s settings, then Network, Set Up Internet Connection, choose your connection method (Wi-Fi or LAN), and select Custom. When prompted, manually enter the Primary and Secondary DNS addresses provided by the service.
Launch Minecraft: After changing your DNS settings, launch Minecraft Bedrock. The game will now be routed through the proxy server, allowing you to join custom servers using a specific Featured Server as a “portal.”

Important Considerations:

This method relies on third-party services and may not always be reliable. Server availability can vary.
Ensure the DNS server provider is reputable to avoid security risks.
This is a workaround, so Mojang or Sony may patch it in future updates.

BedrockTogether App (For Mobile Devices)

Another workaround involves using a mobile app like BedrockTogether. This app acts as a bridge between your PS4 and the custom server.

Download BedrockTogether: Install the BedrockTogether app on your Android or iOS device.
Enter Server Details: In the app, enter the IP address and port of the Minecraft Bedrock server you want to join.
Run the App: Click the “Watch Ad and Run” button. This will activate the app’s proxy.
Join a Featured Server on PS4: On your PS4, join any of the Featured Servers. The BedrockTogether app will redirect your connection to the custom server.

Realms: A Simpler Alternative

Realms offer a simpler and more official way to play with friends on a private server.

Subscription-Based: Realms require a monthly subscription.
Private Worlds: You and up to 10 friends can play together on a private world.
Easy Setup: Realms are easy to set up and manage directly within the game.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Realms support cross-platform play between Bedrock Edition devices.

Do You Need PS Plus to Play on Servers?

Yes, to play any online multiplayer on a non-free-to-play game on the PS4, including Minecraft, you typically require PlayStation Plus (PS Plus). This applies whether you are joining Featured Servers, Realms, or using workarounds to access custom servers.

The Future of PS4 Bedrock Servers

While workarounds exist, the process of joining custom servers on PS4 Bedrock is not ideal. Players are hoping for Mojang and Sony to provide a more streamlined and official method for adding servers in future updates.

Education and Minecraft

Playing Minecraft and participating in these workarounds also stimulates learning. By understanding how DNS servers function and the complexities of networking, players inadvertently learn valuable tech skills. GamesLearningSociety.org is an excellent resource for information on how video games such as Minecraft can be used to promote learning and develop creative problem-solving skills. Learning with gaming is not only for kids, but also for adults and for anyone who are interested in learning. Games Learning Society is leading the research in educational video games.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Minecraft Bedrock servers on PS4:

1. Can I join any Minecraft server on PS4?

No, you cannot directly join any Minecraft server on PS4 Bedrock using its IP address. You are limited to Featured Servers, Realms, or using workarounds involving DNS manipulation or third-party apps.

2. Is Minecraft on PS4 the Bedrock or Java Edition?

Minecraft on PS4 is the Bedrock Edition. The Java Edition is only available on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

3. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play Minecraft online on PS4?

Yes, you need PlayStation Plus to play Minecraft online on PS4, including joining servers and Realms.

4. Can PS4 players join Realms?

Yes, PS4 players can join Realms. Realms are available on PS4 by applying the latest game update.

5. How do I join a Realm on PS4?

Launch Minecraft, select Play, go to the Friends tab, and then select the option to join a Realm.

6. Can PS4 players play with PC players on Bedrock?

Yes, PS4 players can play with PC players and players on other Bedrock platforms (Xbox, Switch, mobile) through Realms or Featured Servers.

7. Why can’t I add servers directly on PS4 Bedrock?

The PS4 version of Minecraft Bedrock does not natively support adding custom servers via IP address, unlike the PC or mobile versions. This is a limitation imposed by Sony.

8. What are Featured Servers?

Featured Servers are official servers pre-approved by Mojang and accessible directly from the game’s menu. They offer various gameplay experiences, such as survival, mini-games, and creative modes.

9. Is there a way to join custom servers on PS4 without using workarounds?

Currently, there is no official way to join custom servers on PS4 without using workarounds such as DNS manipulation or third-party apps.

10. Are Realms free on PS4?

No, Realms are not free. They require a monthly subscription.

11. Can I create my own server for PS4 Bedrock?

You cannot directly host a custom Bedrock server on your PS4. However, you can rent a Bedrock server from a hosting provider and then use workarounds to connect to it from your PS4.

12. What is the BedrockTogether app?

BedrockTogether is a mobile app that acts as a proxy, allowing you to connect to custom Minecraft Bedrock servers from your PS4 by redirecting your connection through a Featured Server.

13. Are there any risks involved in using DNS manipulation to join servers?

Yes, using DNS manipulation involves risks. Ensure the DNS server provider is reputable to avoid potential security risks.

14. Will Sony ever allow direct server connections on PS4 Bedrock?

It is uncertain whether Sony will allow direct server connections on PS4 Bedrock in the future. Players are hoping for this feature in future updates.

15. Is the PS5 version of Minecraft the same as the PS4 version in terms of servers?

Yes, the PS5 version of Minecraft is also the Bedrock Edition and has the same server limitations and workarounds as the PS4 version.

Conclusion

While joining custom servers on Minecraft Bedrock for the PS4 requires some extra effort, it is possible through workarounds. By using DNS manipulation or apps like BedrockTogether, players can expand their multiplayer experience beyond the official Featured Servers and Realms. Keep an eye on future updates, as Mojang and Sony may introduce more streamlined server access methods. Remember that while the official Minecraft version is now the Bedrock edition, the PS4 edition will no longer receive updates.