How to play Minecraft for free

Minecraft isn’t just one of the best-selling games of all time; it’s also one of the most persistent. Over a decade since launch, the blocky world-builder continues to attract players across every platform imaginable. And while the full version still carries a price tag, there are a few ways to explore its world for free, or at least for less than you’d expect. Here’s how.

Ways to play Minecraft without spending a rupee

The easiest option is the official free trial, available on Windows, Android, and PlayStation 5 for the Bedrock Edition, and on Windows, Mac, and Linux for the Java Edition.

You’ll get around 90 minutes of playtime; enough to chop your first tree, build your first shelter, and realise how easy it is to lose track of time. It’s a smart way to test if Minecraft’s slow-burn charm works for you before paying up.

If you already have or can sign up for a Game Pass trial, you’re in luck. Minecraft is part of the Xbox and PC Game Pass ‘Pro tier’ library, meaning subscribers get access to both Java and Bedrock versions as part of the package.

Microsoft often runs one-month or two-week trials for new users, and sometimes bundles it with devices, GPUs, or even mobile plans. It’s essentially the full game experience at zero extra cost.

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And then there’s Minecraft Education, the classroom-friendly spin that schools can access through Microsoft 365 accounts. It’s designed for learning rather than leisure, but it’s still a good way to explore what makes Minecraft so compelling, with multiplayer support for up to 30 students and structured lesson worlds to experiment in.

Nostalgia, servers, and the real deal

For pure nostalgia, Minecraft Classic lets you play the original 2009 build directly in your browser. You’re limited to 32 block types, can’t save progress, and it’s glitchy in all the right ways; but it’s perfect for a quick hit of retro fun. You can even share a link to invite up to nine friends into your world.

Avoid being tempted by shady shortcuts like TLauncher. While it’s an unofficial launcher that can technically run Minecraft for free, it violates Mojang’s End User License Agreement and carries security risks. Malware, data theft, or account bans aren’t worth the gamble.

If you end up loving the game, and you probably will, the full Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC sells for Rs 1,999 in India, giving you both versions in one go. It’s often discounted during sales, so keeping an eye on seasonal offers might save you a few hundred rupees.