Everything about Minecraft Java, the original blocky sandbox

William Davis Published 09/02/2022

Minecraft Java Edition is the most advanced version of the world’s most powerful sandbox video game.

One of the best parts of Minecraft is its accessibility. The Bedrock version works on almost any platform ranging from PlayStation to smartphones, but it lacks a few features. Minecraft Java Edition is the most complete Minecraft experience possible, and it’s only available on PC. While Java is the most customizable version of the game, it does come with a few drawbacks that are worth knowing about. Here’s how to download Minecraft Java, how much it costs, and the biggest differences between it and Bedrock.

How to download Minecraft Java Edition

Once they’ve purchased the game, Minecraft Java fans will need to download and install the game in order to play. Head back to the main Minecraft Java Edition page and look for a green download button. Alternatively, click here to be automatically sent to the download page. Once there, the big green button in the middle of the page will activate the Minecraft Java Edition download.

This will download the Minecraft Installer, which will in turn download the full game onto your computer. Minecraft Java Edition is a pretty big game, so it can take up to an hour to fully download. Once it’s done, the Minecraft client will appear with the option to open the game. This client can also be used to purchase and download other Minecraft software like Dungeons and Realms. Open up the game, start your first world, and begin by creating some essential buildings for any new Minecraft world.

How much is Minecraft Java Edition?

Minecraft Java Edition is available from the official Minecraft website for $26.95 USD. This version of the game is a permanent copy tied to a Microsoft account. As long as you have access to the Microsoft login, you will be able to download and play Minecraft Java on any home computer.

If the asking price seems too much, it’s also possible to play Minecraft using Xbox PC Game Pass. The live service Keep in mind that this method of downloading Minecraft is not permanent. If you cancel your Xbox Games Pass subscription, you will no longer be able to play on the world connected to that account.

What’s the difference between Java and Bedrock?

As the original version of Minecraft, Java Edition comes with several differences compared to Bedrock. Players who are accustomed to the console or mobile versions of the game might need some time to adjust.

The biggest difference between Java and Bedrock is customization potential. PC Minecraft players can download community-created skins and wear them in-game for free. There are several ways to find skins, but the easiest method is checking out a site like The Skindex. In addition to skins, Java Edition players can use mods like Optifine or Plenty O’ Biomes to customize their experience.

Online services also work differently in Minecraft Java compared to Bedrock. Java players cannot connect with Bedrock players or servers in any way. They can connect with Java-specific servers though. Java Edition also loses almost all of the awesome crossplay features of Bedrock. Minecraft PC players can only play with other PC players.

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