No. Minecraft Realms is optional: you can play multiplayer over a local network or join an online server without buying Realms. The catch is that your game edition must match the other players’ setup, and console players may need a separate platform subscription for online play.
Ways to play multiplayer without Realms
| Option | Where players can be | Who hosts and when it is available | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAN | Players connect to the same local network. | A player hosts a world; it is available for multiplayer while that world is open. | Use compatible editions and versions. For Bedrock, players must be on the same network and the host must make the world visible to LAN players. Console online subscription rules may also apply. Minecraft: How to Play Minecraft with Friends |
| Online server | Players can connect remotely using the server’s connection details. | The server provides the world; availability depends on that server. | Use a server for the edition you own and follow its connection instructions. Minecraft Help says Java Edition servers do not require a Realms subscription. Minecraft Help: Java Edition Online Play |
| Realms | Invited friends can join from supported devices. | Minecraft describes Realms as an always-online hosted world, so invited friends can play while the owner is offline. | The host needs a Realms subscription, and friends need an invitation. Plans differ by edition and simultaneous-player limit. Minecraft Realms |
Choose the option that fits your group
Playing together at home
Try LAN if everyone is on the same network. In Bedrock, make sure players are on the same local network and current game version, and that the host’s world is visible to LAN players. Minecraft distinguishes LAN play from online servers by whether players share a network. Minecraft: How to Play Minecraft with Friends
Joining a Java server
Use the server address and join through Minecraft’s Multiplayer menu. A Realms subscription is not required to play on a Java Edition online server, according to Minecraft Help.
Joining a friend’s Realm
Ask the owner to invite you. An invitation is a requirement for joining a Realm; you do not need to buy a separate Realm subscription just to accept an invitation. Minecraft: Multiplayer
#1 Best Overall
- Minecraft is a game about placing blocks and going on adventures
- Explore randomly generated worlds and build amazing things from the simplest of homes to the grandest of castles
- Play in creative mode with unlimited resources or mine deep into the world in survival mode, crafting weapons and armor to fend off the dangerous mobs
- Play on the go in handheld or tabletop modes
- Includes Super Mario Mash-Up, Natural Texture Pack, Biome Settlers Skin Pack, Battle & Beasts Skin Pack, Campfire Tales Skin Pack; Compatible with Nintendo Switch only
Keeping a shared world available when the host is away
That is the main reason to choose Realms: Minecraft says invited friends can play the active world even when the owner is offline. A LAN world or a player-hosted session does not provide the same always-online availability. Minecraft Realms
Realms costs and player limits
The Minecraft Realms page, accessed October 8, 2026, listed these U.S. monthly prices and simultaneous-player limits. The listing is not a permanent price guarantee; region, storefront, taxes, and plan changes can affect the price shown at purchase.
Rank #2
- Skins! We have biome settlers, city folk, town folk, and more!
- The Nether and all its inhabitants. Fight Ghasts and make friends with Pigmen
- Cross platform play for up to five players between Pocket Edition and Windows 10
- Revamped touch controls, controller support, and a controller mapping screen
- Enhanced Weather effects! Accumulating snow and more
| Plan listed by Minecraft | U.S. monthly price on page accessed October 8, 2026 | Simultaneous players listed |
|---|---|---|
| Bedrock Realms | $3.99 USD per month | Host plus two other players |
| Bedrock Realms Plus | $7.99 USD per month | Host plus ten other players |
| Java Realms | $7.99 USD per month | Host plus ten other players |
Check the official Realms page for the price and plan details available in your region before subscribing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check edition, platform, and account requirements
Match Java or Bedrock
Java and Bedrock generally use different multiplayer environments and cannot ordinarily join each other’s servers. Check which edition each person owns before choosing LAN, a server, or a Realm. Minecraft’s multiplayer requirements specify compatible editions and current releases.
Rank #3
- DELUXE COLLECTION — Includes Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition, three Bedrock add-ons, three exclusive Character Creator items, and 700 Minecoins.
- CREATE YOUR WORLD — Build whatever you imagine in an infinite world that’s unique in every playthrough.
- EXPLORE AND CRAFT — Discover biomes, resources, and mobs, then craft your way through a sandbox world filled with surprises.
- SURVIVE THE ADVENTURE — Face mysterious foes, travel across exciting landscapes, and venture into perilous dimensions.
- PLAY TOGETHER — Play cross-platform with friends in Bedrock Edition on console, mobile, and PC, or join community servers in Java Edition on PC, Mac, and Linux. Online console multiplayer requires a platform-specific subscription (sold separately).
Account and connection requirements
Minecraft lists a stable internet connection for online play, and a LAN connection for local play. Console and mobile players need to sign in with a Microsoft account; child accounts may need multiplayer permissions enabled. See Minecraft’s multiplayer requirements for the applicable conditions.
Console subscriptions are separate from Realms
Online multiplayer on Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch may require the platform’s own subscription: Xbox Game Pass Core, PlayStation Plus, or Nintendo Switch Online, respectively. That is a platform requirement, not a requirement to purchase Realms. Confirm the current terms for your console and account with the platform. Minecraft multiplayer requirements
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Minecraft Labyrinth invites 2-4 people aged 7 and over to immerse themselves in the world of Minecraft, move corridors and search for hidden characters and items
- The classic in the look of the well-known and popular computer game Minecraft! The labyrinth has been delighting children and adults for decades and has become a highlight among board games
- A fun family game for children and adults: This board game for ages 7 and up is a must-have in any game collection! Simple rules, entertaining games and exciting rounds ensure long-lasting fun
- A search and slide game that challenges and encourages logical thinking in a playful way
- A great gift or souvenir for all Minecraft fans: the characteristic illustrations provide an authentic gaming experience
Rank #4
- The classic UNO card game builds fun on game night with a Minecraft theme.
- UNO Minecraft features a deck and storage tin decorated with graphics from the popular video game.
- Players match colors and numbers to the card on top of the discard pile as in the classic game.
- The Creeper card unique to this deck forces other players to draw 3 cards.
- Makes a great gift for kid, teen, adult and family game nights with 2 to 10 players ages 7 years and older, especially Minecraft and video game fans.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
