How much does Minecraft cost?

The cost of Minecraft can vary depending on the platform and edition you are purchasing. Here are the current prices (as of 2024) for the main versions of Minecraft:

1. Minecraft: Java Edition (PC/Mac):

• Price: $26.95 USD (one-time purchase).
• Platform: Available for PC and Mac through the Minecraft Launcher (Windows, macOS, and Linux).
• Features: The Java Edition is the original version of Minecraft and supports modding and custom servers. It also includes access to multiplayer through third-party servers, but doesn’t have the cross-platform play that the Bedrock Edition offers.

2. Minecraft: Bedrock Edition (Windows 10, Consoles, Mobile):

• Price: Varies by platform:
  • Windows 10 (Microsoft Store): $29.99 USD.
  • Nintendo Switch: $29.99 USD.
  • PlayStation 4/5: $29.99 USD.
  • Xbox One/Series X/S: $29.99 USD.
  • Mobile (iOS/Android): $6.99 USD (for the mobile version).
• Platform: Available on PC (Windows 10), Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
• Features: The Bedrock Edition supports cross-platform play (play with friends on different devices) and has more options for family-friendly settings, like built-in parental controls.

3. Minecraft: Education Edition:

• Price: Typically offered on subscription basis.
  • For students and schools, it is often available with discounts through educational programs. Free trial options are available.
  • Pricing: Generally starts at around $5 USD per user per month or a school-wide license for a yearly fee.
• Platform: Available on Windows, Mac, iPad, and Chromebooks.
• Features: Specially designed for educational use, with tools for teachers and students to create and explore in a classroom setting.

4. Minecraft Dungeons (Spin-off Game):

• Price: Around $19.99 USD (for the base game). The price may vary depending on special editions or sales.
• Platform: Available on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Windows.
• Features: A dungeon-crawler game that’s simpler and more combat-focused, distinct from the main Minecraft game.

5. Minecraft Realms (Private Multiplayer Servers):

• Price:
  • Minecraft Realms Plus (for Java and Bedrock): $7.99 USD per month for up to 10 players.
  • Minecraft Realms (for Java Edition only): $7.99 USD per month (for Java only, up to 10 players).
• Features: Realms is a paid subscription that provides players with a private, hosted multiplayer world to play with friends. It includes some free content, such as maps, skins, and mini-games.

6. Special Offers and Sales:

• Minecraft is often discounted during sales events (Black Friday, seasonal sales, etc.), and prices can drop, especially for mobile versions or console editions. Keep an eye out for these sales to get the game at a lower price.
• Some versions also come with starter packs, content bundles, or skin packs that may include extra items like special skins, textures, or worlds.

Summary of Pricing:

• Java Edition (PC/Mac): $26.95 USD.
• Bedrock Edition (Windows 10, Consoles): $6.99 - $29.99 USD depending on platform.
• Minecraft Dungeons: $19.99 USD.
• Minecraft Realms (monthly subscription): $7.99 USD.
• Minecraft Education Edition: Around $5 USD per user per month (discounted for schools).

If you're considering purchasing, be sure to check the version that best suits your device and your child's needs (e.g., whether they want to play solo, with friends, or on specific platforms like console or mobile).