Is Minecraft on PS4 Java or Bedrock in 2023? The Ultimate Guide
The answer is definitive: Minecraft on PlayStation 4 (PS4) is the Bedrock Edition. The original PS4 Edition of Minecraft is now a legacy version, and players are playing on the unified Bedrock platform. Let’s delve deeper into what this means and answer all your burning questions about Minecraft on PS4.
Understanding the Evolution: From PS4 Edition to Bedrock
Once upon a time, each platform had its own distinct version of Minecraft. The PS4 was no exception, boasting its own “Minecraft: PS4 Edition.” However, in a move to unite the Minecraft community and provide a more consistent experience across devices, Mojang integrated the PS4 version into the Bedrock Edition. This means players who owned the original PS4 Edition received the Bedrock Edition as a free update.
This transition brought several benefits, most notably cross-platform play. PS4 players could now join their friends on Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Windows 10/11, and mobile devices – all playing together in the same shared world.
What is Bedrock Edition?
Bedrock Edition is the version of Minecraft designed for cross-platform compatibility. It’s written in C++ and optimized for a wide range of devices, including consoles, mobile devices, and Windows 10/11. One of its defining features is its ability to connect players across different platforms.
Benefits of Playing Bedrock Edition on PS4
Here’s what you gain by playing the Bedrock Edition on your PS4:
- Cross-Platform Play: Connect and play with friends on other Bedrock Edition platforms.
- Access to the Minecraft Marketplace: Purchase skins, texture packs, worlds, and other content.
- Consistent Updates: Receive the same updates and features as other Bedrock Edition platforms.
- Realms Support: Host and play on your own private Minecraft server with friends.
- Improved Performance: Enjoy optimized performance and stability compared to older versions.
Minecraft Java vs. Bedrock: Key Differences
While PS4 only supports the Bedrock version, it’s important to understand the key differences between Minecraft Java Edition and Bedrock Edition:
- Coding Language: Java is written in Java, while Bedrock is written in C++.
- Cross-Platform Play: Java is primarily for Windows, Mac, and Linux, and doesn’t offer cross-platform play with consoles and mobile devices. Bedrock is designed for cross-platform play.
- Modding: Java Edition is renowned for its extensive modding community. While Bedrock Edition supports add-ons, they are not as versatile as Java mods.
- Resource Packs & Shaders: Java edition has a lot more freedom with the shaders. Bedrock editions use texture packs and can’t use the same shaders as Java.
- World Formats: Java Edition utilizes the Anvil format, whereas Bedrock uses LevelDB. Therefore, world editing tools made for Java won’t work on Bedrock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to common questions about Minecraft on PS4, including comparisons to Java Edition and cross-platform play.
Q1) Can PS4 Players Play with Java Edition Players?
No, cross-platform play between the PS4 Bedrock Edition and the Java Edition is not supported. These versions use fundamentally different codebases and server architectures.
Q2) If I Own the Original Minecraft: PS4 Edition, Do I Need to Buy the Bedrock Edition?
No. If you owned the original Minecraft: PS4 Edition, you received the Bedrock Edition as a free update. Just make sure to update your game to the latest version.
Q3) Is Minecraft: PS4 Edition Still Available for Purchase?
No, the original Minecraft: PS4 Edition is no longer available for purchase. All new purchases are for the Bedrock Edition.
Q4) Can I Still Play the Original Minecraft: PS4 Edition if I Own It?
Yes, if you already own the original Minecraft: PS4 Edition, you can still play it. However, it won’t receive new updates, and you will miss out on the cross-platform benefits of the Bedrock Edition.
Q5) How Do I Update Minecraft on PS4 to the Bedrock Edition?
Minecraft for PS4 should update automatically. If updates aren’t set to automatic on your PS4, you can select the game, press the ‘options’ button, and then select ‘check for update’ from the new menu.
Q6) Can I Use Mods on Minecraft Bedrock Edition on PS4?
While Bedrock Edition supports add-ons, they are not as extensive as Java Edition mods. You can download add-ons from the Minecraft Marketplace to enhance your gameplay.
Q7) Is Minecraft Java Free if I Have it on PS4?
No, having Minecraft Bedrock Edition on PS4 does not entitle you to a free copy of Minecraft Java Edition. The Java Edition needs to be purchased separately for PC, Mac or Linux.
Q8) How Much Does Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition Bundle Cost?
You can buy Minecraft: Java Edition (through the Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition bundle) from minecraft.net for $29.99 USD or local currency equivalent. This is a one-time purchase.
Q9) Can I Join Java Realms from PS4?
No, Java Realms are not compatible with the Bedrock Edition on PS4.
Q10) What are Minecraft Realms?
Realms are private Minecraft servers that you can host to play with friends. They are available for both Java Edition and Bedrock Edition, but you cannot cross-play between the two different versions.
Q11) Is Minecraft Better on PS4 or PC?
This depends on your preferences. PC (specifically the Java Edition) offers greater modding capabilities, a larger community, and often receives features sooner. The PS4 version provides a more console-optimized experience with cross-platform play capabilities.
Q12) Is it Possible to Get Java if I Have Bedrock on PS4?
You must purchase Minecraft: Java Edition separately for PC, Mac or Linux. Having the Bedrock Edition on PS4 doesn’t grant you a free copy of the Java Edition.
Q13) What are Some Common Minecraft Error Codes, Like “Creeper”?
The “Creeper” error code typically signifies a network issue preventing sign-in. Ensure your connection is stable and configured correctly. Other error codes can be found on the Minecraft help pages.
Q14) What is the Difference Between Bedrock and Java World Formats?
Bedrock Edition uses the LevelDB format for world storage, while Java Edition uses the Anvil format. This incompatibility means world editing tools created for Java Edition won’t work on Bedrock Edition.
Q15) Can Bedrock Players Join Servers Running Geyser from a PS4?
Bedrock players can join servers running Geyser or the Bedrock edition of the game from almost any console. While easy for PC or mobile players, PlayStation users face several hurdles.
Embracing the Bedrock Universe on PS4
The migration to the Bedrock Edition on PS4 has brought numerous advantages, particularly the ability to connect with friends on other platforms. While it doesn’t offer the same modding versatility as the Java Edition, the Bedrock Edition provides a consistent and engaging Minecraft experience. You can learn more about the educational impact of games at websites such as the Games Learning Society using the URL: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Enjoy exploring, building, and adventuring in your Bedrock Edition world on PS4!