Microsoft has announced that Minecraft will be made a part of the Xbox Game Pass on PC on November 2. This will be a bundle containing both the Java and Bedrock editions of the game. It’s worth noting that the game is already part of the Xbox Game Pass for console players.
The announcement was made during Microsoft’s Minecraft Live event this weekend, where developer Mojang said that crossplay will be supported by the game on Windows 10, Windows 11, and consoles. The developer also said that players will be able to access both editions in the same game launcher, which is a first for the block-building title.
The YouTube description of this release reads, “Play Minecraft: Java Edition and Minecraft: Bedrock Edition on Windows 10 and 11, and cross-play with any current version, including consoles and mobile. Just launch the same edition as the Minecrafter you want to play with. And for the first time ever on Game Pass, you can access both editions in the same game launcher!”
The Java edition of Minecraft is known for its open support for mods. It also allows you to customize your own skins. It’s more resource-intensive than the regular edition of the game. And it goes without saying that those who play the Java edition can only play with others who have the same edition.
As for the Bedrock edition of Minecraft, it’s primarily meant for multi-platform play. It does not require a powerful PC and comes with a marketplace where players can purchase add-ons or skin packs to change their gameplay experience. A Bedrock player can play with any other Bedrock player online.
As we said, Minecraft’s Java and Bedrock editions will be hitting Xbox Game Pass for PC on November 2.