Minecraft for Windows: Build, Explore and Survive

Minecraft for Windows is a building and exploration game from Microsoft Studios for Windows and Xbox. Shape randomly generated worlds, make anything from a simple shelter to a castle, or explore underground and gather resources. It is free to install, with creative and survival play styles for different kinds of players.

Choose how you want to play

• Creative Mode: Build freely with unlimited resources. This mode suits players who want to focus on designing structures and experimenting with ideas.
• Survival Mode: Collect materials, craft equipment, build shelter and deal with hostile mobs as you explore. It offers a more task-focused way to play.

Explore, customise and play together

Mining and exploration take you through varied landscapes, caves and biomes. The game also supports slash commands for changing aspects of play, such as the time of day or available items. Community skin, texture and mash-up packs offer ways to customise the experience.

You can join multiplayer servers for community worlds, mini-games and social spaces. Cross-platform play supports up to eight players across Windows, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo and mobile devices. For a shared world that remains available to friends, Realms Plus offers a trial and access to Marketplace content; check the Microsoft Store for current terms.

Things to know before installing

• The listed age rating is 7.
• Minecraft for Windows supports Windows and Xbox. The source also describes ray tracing for Windows and support for Windows Mixed Reality and Oculus Rift devices.
• Worlds and saves from Minecraft Java Edition are not compatible with Minecraft for Windows.
• Marketplace packs and Realms Plus are additional options to consider; check their details in the store before choosing them.

How to download and install

1. Select Download on this page to open Minecraft for Windows in Microsoft Store.
2. On the store page, check that the title is Minecraft for Windows and the developer is Microsoft Studios.
3. Select the install button shown in Microsoft Store and follow its instructions.