Keen to download Minecraft for PC and not sure where to start? We've got you. It isn't nearly as hard to do as it used to be.
You'll need a Microsoft account to download Minecraft but that's no sweat to do. Choosing between the two versions, Ja and Bedrock, is much easier than it used to be. There is no wrong choice as both are compatible with PC, but they do offer some slight differences and it's useful to know about these.
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How to download Minecraft for PCHow to download Minecraft for PC: Where to buy Minecraft
If you’re a brand new player, then unfortunately, you’ll need to purchase Minecraft before you can enjoy it in all its creative glory. There are two places where you can do this:
The Microsoft storeThe Minecraft websiteIt’s important to note that usually, Minecraft is $29.99 / £24.99 / AUS$39.95. However, if you he the Xbox Game Pass, it’s included in your subscription.
Once you’ve made your purchase, you’ll be able to download and open the Minecraft Launcher. However, you’ll need to create a Microsoft account before you log in.
How to download Minecraft for PC: Register a Microsoft account
While you’re in the Launcher, select ‘sign in’ and enter the Microsoft email address you want to use for this account. This will be an Outlook address. After this, choose the password; these must contain uppercase letters, lowercase letters, symbols, or numbers. Then select your birthdate and country/ region and check your emails for a verification code that you can paste into the required field. All there is to do after this is select ‘next’.
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By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.That’s all you need to do to set up your Microsoft account for Minecraft. However, players under 13 years of age will need their parents' permission to finish setting up the account.
How to download Minecraft for PC: Which version should you install?
Now you he successfully downloaded the Minecraft Launcher and registered your Microsoft account, all that’s left is to download the version of Minecraft that you want.
Unlike the old days, Minecraft Ja edition and Bedrock (now known as Windows) edition are a package deal meaning you can’t mess up and accidentally purchase the wrong version. However, there is a difference in which version you install unless you want to install both.
In the Minecraft Launcher, there will be both “Minecraft: Ja Edition” and Minecraft for Windows in the left-hand sidebar. You can install either one by clicking on the version you want and hitting the big green ‘install’ button in the bottom centre.
If you’re unsure which edition you want, it’s important to note the following. Bedrock or Windows is the best choice for cross-platform play, it supports using a game controller, and you also he access to the Minecraft Marketplace that lets you buy game textures, skins, or custom maps. However, Ja is best for Minecraft mods, free texture packs, and skins. It’s also worth noting that Mojang is currently working on adding cross-platforming to Ja, so in a few months, Ja may be the definite go-to.
Regardless of which edition you chose, after the installation is complete, all you he to do is click play and he fun in Minecraft.
Looking for some Minecraft building tips for beginners? Check out our list!