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Who this is for: Gamers curious about Minecraft’s ownership and how Microsoft’s acquisition affected the popular sandbox game.
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Yes, Microsoft Owns Minecraft
Microsoft acquired Minecraft in September 2014 for $2.5 billion, purchasing the game and its developer Mojang Studios from creator Markus “Notch” Persson. This made it one of the largest gaming acquisitions in history at the time.
What Changed After the Acquisition
The acquisition brought several significant changes to how Minecraft operates:
- Account Integration: Players now use Microsoft accounts instead of legacy Mojang accounts for enhanced security and cross-platform features
- Xbox Game Pass: Minecraft became available through Microsoft’s subscription service
- Cross-Platform Play: Enhanced connectivity between Xbox, PC, mobile, and other platforms
- Education Edition: Microsoft developed specialized versions for schools and educational institutions
How Microsoft Manages the Franchise
Under Microsoft’s ownership, Mojang Studios continues developing Minecraft while benefiting from Microsoft’s resources and infrastructure. The tech giant has maintained the game’s core identity while expanding its reach across multiple platforms and demographics.
Microsoft has also integrated Minecraft with its broader ecosystem, including Windows, Xbox consoles, and cloud services. This has enabled features like Minecraft Realms for multiplayer hosting and seamless saves across devices.
The acquisition has proven successful for both companies, with Minecraft continuing to grow its player base and generate substantial revenue through game sales, merchandise, and educational licensing. For players looking to explore similar creative building experiences, there are many engaging alternatives available online.
TL;DR
Yes, Microsoft bought Minecraft for $2.5 billion in 2014. The acquisition enhanced cross-platform features while maintaining the game’s core creative experience.
