Can Minecraft on the Nintendo Switch play with Bedrock?
The introduction of Minecraft on the Nintendo Switch has brought new hopes to fans of the iconic game. With the prospect of playing with friends from different platforms, players often ask if Minecraft on Nintendo Switch can play with Minecraft Bedrock. In this article, we’ll examine the possibilities and answer questions regarding cross-platform play.
Can Minecraft Bedrock and Minecraft Java Run Together?
Unfortunately, Minecraft Bedrock and Java Edition cannot run together unless you have a subscription for Minecraft Realms, and Java Edition players are unable to play with Bedrock editions on other platforms.
For the Nintendo Switch, your options are limited to cross-play with other Nintendo players who have the Minecraft Java Edition. This is likely due to the difference between the two versions. Mojang, the creator, and Microsoft, the platform holder, have separate strategies for the two editions.
How to Switch Games between Java and Bedrock?
If you’re an existing Java player planning to switch to Bedrock, you can follow some simple steps:
- Redeem your Java edition purchases in the Microsoft Store through the Minecraft account manager dashboard.
- Download and update the Minecraft Bedrock Version from the Microsoft Store if it’s not already included with your purchase.
Regarding switching from Bedrock, it’s not directly comparable to the Java version at the moment. To answer your question, the prices are different for both
Minecraft Edition Cross-Play Compatibility Chart Table
| Edition | Multiplayer | Cross-Platform Play |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch (Bedrock Edition) | Yes | Yes (Only Minecraft Bedrock Edition players & Xbox) – Not compatible with Java |
| PC (Microsoft Store) (Bedrock Edition) | Yes, through Realms | Yes (with anyone who has Minecraft Bedrock Edition) – Limited options with Java |
| Xbox (Bedrock Edition) | Yes, Friends List | Yes (with anyone who has Minecraft Bedrock Edition); cross-play with Switch |
| Mobile Devices | Yes, Local Players | Yes within Server-based Multiplayer |
Source: Minecraft Official Documentation/ Official Website
Keep the above table in mind
Minecraft Edition Pros and Cons
• Microsoft has been actively improving Minecraft Bedrock for their own platforms, Xbox series, and Nintendo Switch consoles, making it an overall more polished experience compared Java.
• Java, even with its limitations, grants you access to vast in-game content, especially at lower prices.
• Xbox users can enjoy seamless playing with friends on Nintendo
• Bedrock allows PC users to play on either the Microsoft Store or
• The cross-play within Bedrock allows console games, especially for PC as a
• With updates to the game
Overall, Minecraft on Nintendo has brought a new aspect: Bedrock Edition players.
Java Edition players may or may not be affected,
depending on the region), cross-play between both sides remains limited.