Microsoft recently released a new upgrade to its Windows-based systems with Windows 10. So, Mojang has announced that players switching to Windows 10 will be getting a brand new Edition of Minecraft called Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta.
It also clarified that this will be free of cost for players, who already have the PC version of the game on lower versions of Windows.
Guide to Download a Free Copy of Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta (Mojang):
- Log in to Mojang account
- Go to the Mojang account settings page where players will see a option to claim a copy.
- Click at the "Redeem" button on your account page.
- Sign in to the Microsoft account.
- Follow the instructions.
- Now enjoy the Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta game.
The new PC edition will cost $9.99 till the beta version ends.
So, what does the Beta version have? PC World has detailed the changes in the new Minecraft Windows 10 Edition Beta:
- Support to touch controls
- Abondons Java
- The multiplayer version works over local networks and Xbox Live. Future update will allow connection to Pocket Edition for iOS, Android, and Windows Phone.
- Players can record their exploits via GameDVR feature.
- It noted that it does not support mods, Realms, multiplayer with PC version.
- This version is limited to x64 processors
First Snapshot - Minecraft 1.9: The Combat Update Alpha Testing
Mojang has announced that it has started the public testing of Minecraft 1.9: The Combat Update in its first Snapshot 15w31a, via a post from Nathan Adams, Mojang game developer on its website.
- Melee combat will change and Shields will be tied into it.
- New potions or enchantments.
- Perfect respawn mechanics of the end
- Lots of new items/blocks
- Proper offhand interaction support.
- Subtitles support.
- Proper offhand interaction support.
YouTube and Twitter user SethBling has shared a video that gives us an overview of Snapshot 15w31a.
The video reveals Shulkers, a new mob, Enderdragon fight changes, new islands in The End, new arrows and many more.
Northern Ireland Map Recreated in Minecraft
The government of Northern Ireland has recreated its map using Minecraft. The mod will span across nearly 14,000 sq km and it was developed using Land & Property Service's Ordnance Survey NI (OSNI) digital mapping data.
"This exciting new development will allow people here to play the game across all of Northern Ireland, in places that are familiar to them. Gamers can have a go at building structures including the Giant's Causeway, the Marble Arch caves, their school or even their own house!" said Arlene Foster -- the Finance minister who commitioned the project in a statement, Eurogamer reported.
"It's important to recognise that this is about more than just playing a game. Minecraft inspires a high level of engagement and creativity in young people and it is an excellent tool for teaching children about a wide range of topics including geography, science, technology, engineering and computer coding," added the minister.
It was also stated that this was not the first time that Ordnance Survey was involved in such real-life locales in Minecraft. In 2014, England, Wales and Scotland were recreated as Minecraft maps.
Interested can download the Northern Ireland map here.
