Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesAt the end of 2023, the latest cited release was Java Edition 1.20.4 and Bedrock Edition 1.20.51. Minecraft does not use one shared version number across both editions. These are historical end-of-year versions, not a statement of what is current today.
Latest Minecraft versions at the end of 2023
| Edition | End-of-year version | Official release-note date | Release type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Java Edition | 1.20.4 | December 7, 2023 | Hotfix for a critical Decorated Pot item-loss bug |
| Bedrock Edition | 1.20.51 | December 14, 2023 | Hotfix addressing issues introduced with the preceding update |
The official Java Edition 1.20.4 release note says the hotfix addressed a bug that could make items disappear after being stored in a Decorated Pot. The Bedrock Edition 1.20.51 notice lists fixes including a possible Realms crash and item-duplication issues.
Why the version numbers differ
Java and Bedrock have separate release labels and numbering. If someone asks for the latest Minecraft version in 2023 without naming an edition, the accurate answer is to give both: Java 1.20.4 and Bedrock 1.20.51. The numbers are not meant to be compared as though they belonged to a single sequence.
What came just before the hotfixes?
On December 5, 2023, Mojang published Java Edition 1.20.3 and Bedrock Edition 1.20.50. The later December hotfixes superseded those releases as the latest cited versions for their respective editions.
#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
- Java Edition 1.20.3 added features including Decorated Pot storage and projectile breaking, alongside changes to bats, shields, and technical features.
- Bedrock Edition 1.20.50 included a bat redesign, Decorated Pot improvements, experimental Crafter and Copper content, and an Encyclopedia screen.
Was 1.20.4 or 1.20.51 the name of Minecraft’s 2023 update?
No. Those are edition-specific version numbers, and both December releases were hotfixes. The official update timeline labels the December 2023 content period “Bats and Pots.” That content-period name is distinct from the release number used to identify a particular edition’s software version.
How to check or install a release
For a release available through the Java launcher, the official Java 1.20.2 notes direct players to open the launcher and choose “Latest Release.” Because the versions above refer to releases from 2023, use the current launcher or the relevant official release notes to confirm what is available now; selecting “Latest Release” does not mean installing a historical version.
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
See the Java Edition 1.20.2 release notes for that launcher instruction.
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.
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).
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.
