Minecraft on Xbox Game pass

With a Minecraft mad 7-year old, I just downloaded Minecraft on my Xbox Games Pass. This seems to create a launcher with different ‘versions’ to choose from. Please can anyone explain to an out of touch 44 year old what the difference between the “Java” version and the “For Windows” version?

Also, I bought an Oculus Quest 2, can you play either Minecraft through this, which I think would blow his little mind!

Conversation 3 comments

  • christianwilson

    Premium Member
    03 November, 2021 - 1:57 pm

    <p>Not sure about the Oculus question, but as a fellow parent of a Minecraft fanatic, I do know about Java and "For Windows" versions. </p><p><br></p><p>Java is the original version of Minecraft. It is older, but more modular. A lot of hardcore Minecraft streamers use it and can tweak the visuals and performance of the game to their needs. </p><p><br></p><p>The "For Windows" option is also known as the "Bedrock" version of Minecraft. This version is the modern version that is compatible with players on mobile, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, etc. </p><p><br></p><p>The two versions of Minecraft work similarly from my limited experience, but you’ll want to use the version that your child’s friends are using. Most of my son’s friends play on an iPad. He plays on an Xbox. I play with him using the Bedrock version on my laptop. </p><p><br></p><p>I hope that helps. I can try to elaborate more if needed. </p>

    • StevenLayton

      03 November, 2021 - 5:06 pm

      <p>Thanks for that, really helpful.</p>

  • tim42

    04 November, 2021 - 10:24 am

    <p>Also, FYI, even though the Java edition is "older," it typically (though not always) receives updates and new features before the Bedrock version. The Bedrock version gives you access to Realms, which are easy-to-set-up monthly-fee community servers that make it easy for friends to play together. (You can set up a community server in Java too, but the technical details are outside the scope of this comment :-)</p><p><br></p><p>But I super agree, if your child’s friends already play Minecraft, find out what version they are using. </p><p><br></p><p>Also, it’s super acceptable to switch between both Java and Bedrock depending on needs!</p>

Windows Intelligence In Your Inbox

Sign up for our new free newsletter to get three time-saving tips each Friday

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Thurrott © 2024 Thurrott LLC