What Subscription Do I Need to Play Minecraft With Friends? The Ultimate Guide

So, you want to dive into the blocky world of Minecraft with your friends? Excellent choice! But navigating the subscription landscape can feel like mining through bedrock to find diamonds. Don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the confusion and get you building together in no time.

The simple answer is: it depends on the platform you’re playing on and the version of Minecraft you’re using. For console players (Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch), you’ll generally need the platform’s respective online subscription service (Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate, PlayStation Plus, or Nintendo Switch Online). However, Minecraft: Java Edition on PC does not require a separate subscription beyond the initial game purchase.

Let’s break it down further to make sure you know exactly what you need!

Understanding Minecraft Editions and Platforms

Minecraft isn’t just one game anymore. It’s split into two main editions:

• Minecraft: Java Edition: The original, PC-centric version. Known for its extensive modding community and freedom.
• Minecraft: Bedrock Edition: A unified version available on Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Windows 10/11, and mobile devices. This edition allows for cross-platform play, meaning you can play with friends on different devices.

The version you’re playing significantly impacts the subscriptions you need.

Console Requirements: Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch

If you’re on a console, the rules are pretty straightforward.

Xbox

You’ll need an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition online with friends. Xbox Game Pass Core, the successor to Xbox Live Gold, allows you to access online multiplayer. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes Core, a vast library of games, and cloud gaming capabilities. Note that if you are playing the Java Edition on your PC, you do not need an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription.

PlayStation

You’ll need a PlayStation Plus subscription to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition online with friends. PlayStation Plus comes in multiple tiers, and the basic Essential tier will suffice for Minecraft multiplayer.

Nintendo Switch

To play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition online with friends on the Nintendo Switch, you need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

PC: Minecraft Java Edition vs. Bedrock Edition

The PC version of Minecraft presents more options.

Minecraft: Java Edition

The beautiful thing about Minecraft: Java Edition is that you don’t need a separate subscription beyond purchasing the game itself to play online with friends. You can join public servers, set up your own server (or have a friend do it), or use a service like Minecraft Realms.

Minecraft: Bedrock Edition on PC

If you’re playing the Bedrock Edition on PC, and plan to play with friends on an Xbox, PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, then you will need the required respective subscription that applies to your friends’ platform.

Minecraft Realms and Realms Plus

Minecraft Realms and Realms Plus are official subscription services that allow you to create and manage your own private Minecraft server hosted by Mojang (the makers of Minecraft). These subscriptions are optional but offer a convenient way to play with friends without the hassle of setting up your own server.

• Realms: Supports up to two players (plus the owner).
• Realms Plus: Supports up to ten players (plus the owner) and includes access to a catalog of skins, worlds, and resource packs.

Only the realm owner needs to subscribe. Friends can join for free.

Other Multiplayer Options

Even without subscriptions, there are ways to play Minecraft with friends. If you and your friends are on the same local network (LAN), you can set up a LAN Minecraft server for local multiplayer without needing any online subscriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions to further clarify the subscription situation:

1. Do I need Xbox Game Pass to play Minecraft with friends on Xbox?

   Yes, you need Xbox Game Pass Core or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition online with friends on Xbox.

2. Do my friends also need Minecraft Realms to play on my Realm?

   No, only the Realm owner needs the subscription. Friends can join your Realm for free.

3. Is Minecraft a one-time purchase, or do I have to pay monthly?

   Minecraft itself is a one-time purchase. You only pay once to buy the game. However, services like Minecraft Realms and console online subscriptions are recurring monthly or yearly payments.

4. Can I play Minecraft without Xbox Live Gold (now Xbox Game Pass Core)?

   Yes, you can play Minecraft without Xbox Game Pass Core if you’re playing single-player or local split-screen multiplayer. However, online multiplayer requires a subscription.

5. What’s the difference between Minecraft Realms and Realms Plus?

   Realms supports fewer players (two plus the owner) and doesn’t include the bonus content library. Realms Plus supports more players (ten plus the owner) and includes a catalog of skins, worlds, and resource packs.

6. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play Minecraft with friends on PlayStation?

   Yes, you need PlayStation Plus to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition online with friends on PlayStation.

7. Is there a free way to play Minecraft multiplayer?

   Yes, you can join public Minecraft: Java Edition servers for free. You can also set up a local area network (LAN) server if you’re all on the same network.

8. Does everyone need to pay for a Minecraft server?

   No, if you’re using a third-party server hosting service, only the person who is renting the server needs to pay. Then they can invite their friends to the server to play with them.

9. Can I use mods with Minecraft Realms?

   Minecraft Realms on Java Edition allow for limited modding and custom content. Realms on Bedrock Edition typically support the Marketplace content.

10. What happened to Xbox Live Gold?

    Xbox Live Gold was replaced by Xbox Game Pass Core on September 14, 2023.

11. If I buy Minecraft, do I own it forever?

    Yes, buying Minecraft is a one-time purchase, and you own the game. However, if you would like to create your own server through Minecraft Realms or Realms Plus, then you must purchase a subscription.

12. How do I play Minecraft with friends on Xbox?

    Make sure you have a Microsoft account, add your friends’ gamertags, and invite them to your Minecraft world or Realm. You’ll also need an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription.

13. Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to play Minecraft with friends on Nintendo Switch?

    Yes, you need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition online with friends on Nintendo Switch.

14. Is Minecraft $6.99 a month?

    No, Minecraft itself is not a monthly subscription. You can purchase the game for a one-time cost on your preferred platform.

15. Is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate the best subscription for Xbox?

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a great subscription for Xbox, since it allows for online multiplayer, access to hundreds of games on Xbox, PC and mobile.

Finding Your Way in the Blocky World

Navigating the subscription requirements for Minecraft multiplayer can seem complicated initially. But by understanding the different editions, platforms, and available services, you can easily determine what you need to start playing with your friends. Remember to check the specific requirements for your platform and edition of Minecraft to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.

As you explore the educational aspects of gaming, consider diving deeper into the research and community at the Games Learning Society. Visit them at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Happy crafting!