Minecraft review

Minecraft ranks ninth here not because it is weaker, but because its strength is open-ended play rather than a crafted campaign, and its USD price could not be confirmed. Minecraft.net describes a game where you explore your own worlds, survive the night and build anything from a dirt hut to a sprawling settlement. The PC store page sells Java and Bedrock Edition together. Java runs on Windows, macOS and Linux and is the edition for community mods. Bedrock cross-plays with Windows, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PS5 and mobile, has controller and touch support, and adds the Minecraft Marketplace. Consoles support split-screen for up to four players, and Minecraft Realms gives you a personal server for friends. The limits are that Java and Bedrock players cannot join each other, and Marketplace content and Realms are paid extras. For families and friend groups spread across devices, it is the easiest game here to share.

Who it is for

Players of every age who want a creative sandbox to play alone or with friends across devices.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• PC purchase includes both Java Edition and Bedrock Edition
• Bedrock cross-play across Windows, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PS5 and mobile
• Java Edition supports community mods on Windows, macOS and Linux
• Split-screen for up to four players on consoles
• Minecraft Realms for a personal server with friends

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Runs on almost every current device
• Strength: No fixed goal, so it suits builders and survivors alike
• Strength: A free trial is linked from Minecraft.net
• Weakness: Java and Bedrock players cannot play together
• Weakness: Marketplace add-ons and Realms cost extra
• Weakness: Price did not appear in the store page text for our USD check

Key facts

• Java Edition platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
• PC edition: Java & Bedrock Edition bundle
• Bedrock cross-play: Windows, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PS5, mobile
• Split screen: Up to 4 players, consoles only
• Trial: Free trial available

Where it ranks

Minecraft is No. 9 in our Best Video Games of All Time verdict.