What is the Microsoft Version of Minecraft?

The term “Microsoft version of Minecraft” primarily refers to Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. This edition is specifically designed to be cross-platform, allowing players on Windows 10 and above, Xbox consoles, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation consoles, mobile devices (Android and iOS), and even some ChromeOS devices, to play together seamlessly. It stands in contrast to Minecraft: Java Edition, which is only available on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems and does not support cross-play with other platforms. The Bedrock Edition is also often simply referred to as “Minecraft” on devices where it is the only version available. The name “Minecraft” on a Windows computer can mean you have the Bedrock edition installed.

Essentially, the “Microsoft version” leverages Microsoft’s infrastructure and development focus to create a unified experience across a wide range of devices, emphasizing ease of use and widespread accessibility. It’s a cornerstone of Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem and a crucial part of Minecraft’s broader appeal. This version is a separate codebase, developed with the intention of performance optimization across many different systems and device specifications. This can often translate to the game running more efficiently on lower-end devices compared to Java.

Key Features of Minecraft: Bedrock Edition

The Bedrock Edition is more than just a port; it’s a fundamentally different version of the game, each with its own set of unique characteristics and design choices. Here are some key distinctions that define it:

• Cross-Platform Play: This is perhaps its defining feature. The ability to play with friends regardless of their device is a major draw for many users. This ease of playing together creates a huge player pool making finding and joining servers far easier.

• Performance Optimization: Bedrock is engineered to run smoothly on a wider range of hardware, including mobile devices and consoles which typically lack the processing power of high-end PCs, making it easier to play even with lower-end machines.

• Consistent Updates: Both Java and Bedrock editions receive major updates simultaneously, ensuring all players get new features, content and bug fixes at the same time. As of 2023 the updates and content releases occur at the same time, but some specific minor features might be on one version and not the other.

• Integrated Store and Marketplace: Bedrock features an integrated marketplace where players can purchase skins, texture packs, worlds and more using real money or by spending in game currency earned. This allows users to customize and enhance their gameplay, and also supports the content creator ecosystem.

• Simplified User Interface: The UI on the Bedrock edition is designed to be intuitive and accessible to a wide range of users, including those using touch screen controls on mobile devices.

• Account Integration: Bedrock edition uses a Microsoft account to play multiplayer which is required for cross-play. This integrates the game into the Microsoft eco-system and also adds benefits like cloud saves.

Contrasting Bedrock and Java Editions

While both versions offer the core Minecraft experience, their differences are significant. Here’s a quick look at how they compare:

• Modding: The Java Edition boasts a much larger and more robust modding community, allowing for extensive game modifications and custom content. Bedrock has a smaller, more controlled modding scene, and relies on add-ons from the store.

• Platform Availability: As mentioned before, Java is limited to Windows, macOS, and Linux, while Bedrock spans numerous platforms.

• Codebase: Java is written in the Java programming language, while Bedrock uses C++. This different programming base affects how the game performs on different devices, as well as accessibility to certain mods and community content.

• Server Hosting: Hosting private servers on Java is usually easier and offers more flexibility. However, Bedrock offers Realms, an official paid subscription for simplified server access, though it might be more restricted in custom settings.

• Community: While both have large communities, the Java community has been established for longer and is often considered more focused on modding and technical aspects, while Bedrock is geared towards a broader, cross-platform and family-friendly experience.

Why Two Versions?

The existence of two separate versions stems from Minecraft’s early history and the different needs and philosophies that grew around each. Java Edition was the original, PC-focused version of the game, with a strong modding community driving its development. Bedrock was created to expand Minecraft’s reach, making it available and accessible on a wide range of platforms, particularly mobile and consoles, leading to different codebases being used.

Microsoft’s acquisition of Mojang, the studio behind Minecraft, in 2014 solidified this dual-approach. Microsoft saw the value in both versions, keeping the community-driven and technically rich Java edition alive while focusing on cross-platform functionality and widespread accessibility for the Bedrock edition.

Minecraft: Bedrock Edition – A Core Part of the Microsoft Gaming Ecosystem

In summary, the “Microsoft version of Minecraft,” or Bedrock Edition, is a testament to Microsoft’s vision of accessible and cross-platform gaming. It prioritizes seamless multiplayer experiences and performance optimization across a wide variety of devices. While it may not offer the same level of modding flexibility as Java, its accessibility and ease of use have made it the version of choice for many players. This version of the game is also designed to be a core part of the Microsoft gaming ecosystem by integrating with Microsoft accounts and game store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the Microsoft version of Minecraft better:

1. Is Minecraft: Bedrock Edition the same as Minecraft on Windows 10/11?

Yes, Minecraft: Bedrock Edition is the version of Minecraft designed for Windows 10 and above. If you see just “Minecraft” when you search in the Windows start menu, that generally indicates you have the Bedrock edition.

2. Can I play with Java Edition players if I have Bedrock Edition?

No, cross-play between Java and Bedrock editions is not possible. These are two separate versions of the game with different codebases and servers.

3. Do I need a Microsoft account to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition?

Yes, a Microsoft account is required to play Bedrock Edition, especially for multiplayer and to take advantage of cross-play capabilities.

4. Is the Bedrock version of Minecraft free?

No, the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft is not free. It must be purchased separately, although the Java & Bedrock Edition Bundle is a common option for players on PC.

5. Can I use mods on Minecraft: Bedrock Edition?

While the Bedrock Edition does not have the same modding capability as Java, it supports add-ons and custom content available through the in-game store. These are generally more restricted and curated than Java mods.

6. Which version of Minecraft is better for performance?

Generally, Bedrock Edition is optimized for a wider range of hardware, often performing more smoothly and consistently, particularly on lower-end PCs, consoles, and mobile devices.

7. Where can I buy Minecraft: Bedrock Edition?

You can purchase Minecraft: Bedrock Edition through the Microsoft Store on Windows devices, the app store on Android or iOS, the respective console stores for PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and Xbox, and from the official Minecraft website.

8. Is Minecraft on Xbox the Bedrock or Java version?

Minecraft on Xbox consoles is the Bedrock Edition. The Java Edition is not available on consoles.

9. Does the PlayStation version of Minecraft support cross-play?

Yes, the PlayStation version of Minecraft is Bedrock Edition and supports cross-play with other Bedrock devices like Xbox, Switch, mobile devices, and Windows.

10. Is the mobile version of Minecraft the Bedrock or Java version?

The mobile version of Minecraft, often called Pocket Edition or now simply “Minecraft” on app stores, is the Bedrock Edition. It shares the same cross-play functionality as other Bedrock devices.

11. Can I transfer my Java Edition world to Bedrock Edition?

While not a straightforward process, there are third-party tools available that can help to convert world data between the versions, although they may not transfer everything perfectly.

12. What are Minecraft Realms?

Minecraft Realms is a subscription-based service for Bedrock Edition which allows players to host their own private, always-online multiplayer server in an official environment, making it easy to play with friends.

13. Do both Java and Bedrock Editions get new updates at the same time?

Yes, major Minecraft updates are generally released for both Java and Bedrock simultaneously, with only minor differences between the versions.

14. How does Minecraft Bedrock’s store work?

Minecraft Bedrock Edition has an in-game marketplace where players can purchase skins, texture packs, worlds, and adventure maps. These are usually developed by creators and the purchases help support the Minecraft eco-system.

15. What is Minecraft 1.20, Trails & Tales, on the Microsoft version?

Minecraft 1.20, the Trails & Tales update, was released for both Bedrock and Java editions on June 7, 2023. It introduced new features like the Sniffer mob, bamboo wood, and cherry blossom biomes to both platforms simultaneously.