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Only for certain kinds of play. On an Xbox console, Minecraft’s support guidance requires an active Xbox Game Pass Core subscription to play online with friends. PC online play requires an internet connection; Nintendo Switch and PlayStation require their respective online services. The guidance reviewed does not specify a subscription requirement for solo play.
Which subscription do you need for Minecraft online?
The requirement depends on the platform you use to play. Minecraft Help says an active Xbox Game Pass Core, Nintendo Switch Online, or PlayStation Plus subscription is required to join a friend’s online Bedrock world. The page specifically names Xbox Game Pass Core, not Game Pass in general. Minecraft Help: Join a Friend’s Minecraft: Bedrock Edition World Online.
| Platform and play mode | Requirement established by official guidance |
|---|---|
| Xbox console, online with friends | Active Xbox Game Pass Core |
| Nintendo Switch, online play | Nintendo Switch Online |
| PlayStation, online play | PlayStation Plus |
| PC, online play | An internet connection |
| Solo play | The cited support pages do not specify a subscription requirement |
The console services are separate from owning Minecraft. The available guidance does not establish that every Game Pass tier includes the console online multiplayer access described here, so check the current plan details if you are comparing subscriptions.
Can you play Minecraft without Game Pass?
Yes, depending on what you mean. The Xbox Game Pass Core requirement applies to online multiplayer on an Xbox console, not to all ways of playing Minecraft. The reviewed official pages do not directly state a solo-play rule, but they limit the named console subscription requirement to online play. On PC, the official edition guide says an internet connection is what you need for online play. Minecraft: Java or Bedrock Edition.
#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
If you are playing with other people, identify both the platform and the type of multiplayer: a friend-hosted online world, a server, a local network (LAN), or a Realm. A LAN world is for players on the same local network; a Realm is an online hosted world. Minecraft’s server guide explains the distinctions.
Does a Microsoft account replace the console subscription?
No. A Microsoft account and a console’s online service are different things. Minecraft Help says console and mobile players may need to sign in with a Microsoft account; that account does not replace Xbox Game Pass Core, Nintendo Switch Online, or PlayStation Plus when the platform’s online service is required.
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
For a friend-hosted Bedrock world, both players must be Minecraft friends and online at the same time. If joining fails, the subscription is only one possible cause: Minecraft Help also identifies account sign-in, multiplayer permissions, friends-list status, and game-version updates as checks.
Does the Minecraft edition affect multiplayer?
Yes. Java and Bedrock use separate servers and cannot play together. Bedrock supports cross-platform play across supported devices, while Java players connect with other Java players. Check that you and your friends are using compatible editions before troubleshooting subscriptions. Minecraft’s edition guide describes the differences.
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).
Is a Realm the same as Game Pass Core?
No. Realms is a separate, subscription-based hosting option for shared worlds: Realms is for Java, and Realms Plus is for Bedrock, according to Minecraft’s Realms guide. A Realm provides hosting; it does not replace the console online service required for console multiplayer.
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.
