What Version of Microsoft Buys Minecraft?
Microsoft’s acquisition of Mojang, the studio behind the popular sandbox game Minecraft, sent shockwaves through the gaming industry in 2014. But what exactly did Microsoft buy, and what was the significance of the deal?
Microsoft’s Acquisition of Mojang
On September 15, 2014, Microsoft announced that it had reached an agreement to purchase Mojang, the independent game development studio founded by Markus "Notch" Persson, Carl Manneh, and Jakob Porser. The acquisition was valued at $2.5 billion, with Microsoft paying $1.17 billion in cash and the remaining $1.33 billion in Microsoft stock.
Which Version of Minecraft Did Microsoft Buy?
The Minecraft intellectual property, including the game’s source code, assets, and trademarks, was acquired by Microsoft as part of the deal. This meant that Microsoft gained ownership of all versions of Minecraft, including the PC version, which was the original and most popular version of the game at the time.
The Impact of the Acquisition
The acquisition had a significant impact on the gaming industry and the Minecraft community. For one, it brought the popular game under the umbrella of a major corporation, providing a level of stability and resources that would help to further develop and expand the game. It also gave Microsoft a foothold in the gaming industry, which had previously been dominated by console manufacturers like Sony and Nintendo.
Minecraft: Java Edition and Minecraft: Bedrock Edition
Since the acquisition, Microsoft has released two main versions of Minecraft: Java Edition and Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. Java Edition is the original version of the game, which was developed by Mojang and is still widely played today. Bedrock Edition, on the other hand, is a newer version of the game that was developed by Microsoft and is designed to be more platform-agnostic, allowing for cross-platform play between PC, Xbox, and mobile devices.
Key Differences Between Java and Bedrock Editions
Here are some key differences between the two editions:
| Feature | Java Edition | Bedrock Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Support | PC only | PC, Xbox, Mobile, Nintendo Switch |
| Cross-Platform Play | No | Yes |
| Graphics | Better graphics, more customization options | Simplified graphics, more streamlined gameplay |
| Mod Support | Robust mod support, large community of creators | Limited mod support, more focus on official content |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Microsoft’s acquisition of Mojang and the Minecraft intellectual property was a significant event in the gaming industry. The acquisition brought stability and resources to the game, and allowed Microsoft to expand its presence in the gaming market. The release of two main versions of Minecraft, Java Edition and Bedrock Edition, has given players more options for how they want to play the game. Whether you’re a hardcore Minecraft fan or just looking for a fun and creative way to spend your time, Minecraft is an excellent choice.
FAQs
- Is Minecraft still free? No, Minecraft is no longer free. The game is available for purchase on various platforms, including PC, Xbox, and mobile devices.
- Can I still play Minecraft on PC? Yes, Minecraft is still available for play on PC, although the Java Edition is no longer being updated.
- What is the difference between Minecraft: Java Edition and Minecraft: Bedrock Edition? The main difference is that Java Edition is the original version of the game, while Bedrock Edition is a newer version designed for cross-platform play.
- Can I play Minecraft with my friends on different platforms? Yes, Minecraft: Bedrock Edition allows for cross-platform play between PC, Xbox, and mobile devices.