Game guide
Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox game about breaking and placing blocks in a procedurally generated 3D world, where players gather resources, craft tools, build, and survive against hostile mobs. It ships in two distinct editions: Java Edition (Windows/macOS/Linux) and Bedrock Edition (Windows, consoles, mobile).
- Developer
- Mojang Studios
- Publisher
- Mojang Studios (Xbox Game Studios)
- Released
- November 18, 2011 (Java Edition full release); Bedrock Edition lineage began as Pocket Edition in 2011 and was unified under the 'Bedrock' name in 2017
- Platforms
- PC (Windows/macOS/Linux – Java), PC (Windows 10/11 – Bedrock), Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
- Price
- $29.99 (PC 'Java & Bedrock' bundle); console/handheld editions typically $19.99–$29.99, mobile (Bedrock) around $6.99–$7.49
Guides & data
Everything people search about Minecraft — each answer verified against primary sources.
Minecraft guides
Verified how-to guides for this game, kept current.
Minecraft — frequently asked
Should I buy Java or Bedrock on PC?
You don't have to choose – the single PC purchase (the 'Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition' bundle, about $29.99) includes both clients. Pick Java for mods and the classic PC experience, Bedrock for cross-play with console/mobile friends and better performance on low-end PCs.
Is Minecraft free to play?
No, it's a paid game (about $29.99 for the PC bundle, or included with PC/Xbox Game Pass). There is a free browser-based 'Minecraft Classic' and time-limited trials, but the full game must be purchased.
Sources
- Minecraft.net – Java & Bedrock Edition for PC (store/price)
- Minecraft Help – System Requirements for Minecraft: Java Edition
- Minecraft Wiki – Java Edition hardware requirements
- Minecraft Help – Java & Bedrock Edition for PC FAQ (editions/crossplay)
- Wikipedia – Minecraft (release, developer, platforms)
- Last verified: July 12, 2026. Sizes and specs can change with patches — tell us if something is out of date.