Minecraft, one of the world’s most popular video games, is known for its creative and immersive gameplay. Its appeal stretches across various platforms, including Xbox and PC, where millions of players shape and explore pixelated worlds.
A question often arises: Is Minecraft cross-platform between Xbox and PC? The answer is yes, and this article will provide an in-depth explanation of how to play Minecraft cross-platform on Xbox and PC, and what this means for servers.
The Cross-Platform Capability of Minecraft
Minecraft’s cross-platform capabilities come from its “Bedrock Edition”. Previously, Minecraft had two primary editions: the original Java Edition and the console-specific versions.
However, Microsoft (the owner of Minecraft) introduced the Bedrock Edition, uniting most console and mobile versions under one codebase, which included cross-play functionality.
The Bedrock Edition allows players on Xbox, PC (specifically, the Windows 10 version), Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, and VR devices to play with each other in the same Minecraft world.
This means that Xbox and PC players can enjoy Minecraft together, opening up new possibilities for collaboration and gameplay.
How to Play Minecraft Cross-Platform on Xbox and PC
To enable cross-play between Xbox and PC, follow these steps:
- Minecraft Edition: Make sure that both the Xbox and PC players have the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft. PC players need to have the Windows 10 version.
- Microsoft Account: All players need a Microsoft account. Sign in with these accounts in the game.
- Xbox Live Friend: The Xbox player needs to add the PC player as an Xbox Live friend. This can be done within the game by navigating to the “Add Friends” menu, or externally through the Xbox Console Companion app or the Xbox website.
- Join a Multiplayer Game: Once added as friends, the PC player can join the Xbox player’s world. The Xbox player should start a game, and the PC player can join by going to the “Friends” tab and clicking on the friend’s world.
- Enjoy Minecraft Together: The PC player should now be able to explore and interact with the same Minecraft world as the Xbox player.
Minecraft Servers and Cross-Platform Play
One of the significant advantages of cross-platform play in Minecraft is the ability for players on different platforms to interact within the same servers. Servers are multiplayer worlds hosted by third parties, often featuring custom games, builds, and rulesets.
They add a new dimension to Minecraft gameplay, enabling player communities to form and engage in unique experiences. For a server to be cross-platform compatible, it needs to support the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft.
Many popular Minecraft servers have done so, allowing Xbox and PC players to join the same server and play together. You can find a list of these servers in the “Servers” tab in the Minecraft game menu.
Conclusion
Minecraft’s cross-platform capability brings players together like never before, allowing Xbox and PC gamers to share the same pixelated worlds.
Whether you’re collaborating on a grand building project, competing in mini-games on servers, or just exploring the vast Minecraft landscapes, cross-platform play enhances the multiplayer experience.
So, gear up, log in, and delve into the unlimited possibilities of Minecraft with your friends, regardless of the platform they’re on.
