Can Java and Bedrock Actually Play Nice Together? The Minecraft Cross-Play Lowdown
Wondering if your Java Edition friends can join your Bedrock world? It’s the key question in the Minecraft realm: Can Java and Bedrock editions play together? Let’s get to the point and explore this in detail.
Cross-Platform Play: The Lay of the Land
Out of the box, Java and Bedrock editions cannot mingle. Their code differs, like distinct dialects of Minecraft. Java Edition runs on PCs, Macs, and Linux. Bedrock plays on Windows 10/11, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile. Check this guide on cross-platform Minecraft for more.
Realms: Separate Kingdoms
Want a realm for Java and Bedrock friends? Unfortunately, Realms are edition-specific. Java Realms are only for Java players, while Bedrock Realms cater to Bedrock players. No mixing allowed. They operate on different codes, keeping them in separate dimensions.
Servers: Where the Magic Happens
Fear not, block breakers! While direct cross-play isn’t possible, creative Minecraft fans found ideas. Enter Geyser, a tool that allows Bedrock players to join Java Edition servers. Think of it as a secret passage! Aternos, the free server host, supports Geyser for easier cross-play setups.
To start this cross-play fun, install Geyser on your Java server. It works as a proxy, welcoming Bedrock players into Java’s environment. Picture it as a bouncer who speaks both languages.
Aternos and Hydraulic: Opening the Gates
Want to host cross-play on Aternos? Great news! Aternos supports Geyser. Bedrock and Java players can unite on your server. If you’re adventurous, try Hydraulic. This mod allows Bedrock players on modded Java Edition servers. Yes, modded cross-play!
Java vs. Bedrock: A Tale of Two Editions
What’s behind the split between Java and Bedrock? They are different worlds. Choosing between them often depends on your Minecraft goals.
Java Edition: The King of Customization
Pros:
- Modding Mania: Java is the king of mods. A vibrant community creates many mods, from massive overhauls to small tweaks. Want dragons or new dimensions? Java has it.
- Customization Central: Skins and maps abound. Java has unmatched customization without always paying.
- Redstone Rockstar: Redstone mechanics are more advanced and consistent in Java.
- Server Galore: Numerous active servers to explore, many free.
- Hardcore Hero: Java offers Hardcore mode for serious survival challenges.
Cons:
- Performance Pains: Java can require lots of resources, especially with mods. Older PCs may struggle.
- Steep Learning Curve: Modding and customization can overwhelm newcomers.
- Cross-Play Limitations: Limited to PC and Mac for cross-play with consoles… unless using Geyser!
- Marketplace? Nope: No built-in marketplace for content, just community creations.
Bedrock Edition: The Cross-Platform Champ
Pros:
- Cross-Platform Crusader: Bedrock excels in cross-platform play. Players unite across many devices.
- User-Friendly Fortress: The interface is smooth and easy for younger players or beginners.
- Marketplace Magic: Curated content like skins and worlds in the Minecraft Marketplace simplifies upgrades.
- Performance Powerhouse: Generally runs smoother than Java, especially on less powerful devices.
- Built-in Buddies: Realms and cross-platform play are built-in for easy multiplayer.
Cons:
- Modding Mildness: Less modding freedom compared to Java. Add-ons exist but are not as extensive.
- Customization Constraints: Limited customization, some content requires purchases in the marketplace.
- Smaller Community (Java-wise): While large, the Bedrock community is generally smaller and less geared toward servers.
- Feature Fumbles: Bedrock sometimes lacks behind Java in updates or features.
Technical Tinkering: Geyser and Floodgate Explained
Let’s look at how Geyser and Floodgate enable cross-play.
Geyser: The Bridge Builder
Geyser is key for Bedrock players accessing Java servers. It acts as a bridge, translating Bedrock Edition’s language into Java’s. Geyser tricks Java servers into seeing Bedrock players as Java players. It’s open-source, created by CubeCraft Games.
Floodgate: The Account Alchemist
Floodgate assists Geyser by streamlining login for Bedrock players on Java servers. Typically, Java servers need a Java account. Floodgate lets Bedrock users join with their Bedrock accounts. It’s like a VIP pass into the Java world.
Floodgate works for Spigot, Paper, Bungeecord, and Velocity servers, plus as a mod for Fabric servers. It must install alongside Geyser to function properly.
Server Setup: A Dash of Tech Required
Setting up cross-play with Geyser requires a Java Edition server and plugin installation knowledge. Many hosting providers simplify this process, making it beyond just launching a single-player game.
IP Address Alert!
A note: Minecraft servers might log IP addresses. This means your server could record your IP and others’ in log files. Be cautious in the vast digital world.
Realms Revisited: Still Edition-Locked
Just to stress: Java and Bedrock Realms stay separate. No hosting a realm for both editions occurs. They’re designed as simple, official hosting solutions without cross-edition play.
Realms vs. Realms Plus: More Players, Perks
Mojang provides two Realm types: standard Realms and Realms Plus. Both services offer private servers but to different audiences.
- Minecraft Realms (Standard): Ideal for small groups, supporting two friends playing together. It’s all about private, online worlds with backups.
- Minecraft Realms Plus: Allows up to 10 friends to join together. Offers access to a Minecraft Marketplace content library – worlds, texture packs, mini-games. Think of it as Realms with bonuses and more space for your crew.
Neither option supports direct modding; Realms emphasize simplicity over customization.
Minecraft: The Price of Blocks and Free-ish Options
Minecraft isn’t free-to-play entirely. It costs around $18.99 for the Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition bundle. This includes both editions in one purchase.
Free Peeks and Game Pass Perks
You can try free options before buying:
- Minecraft Classic: A free browser version of the original 2009 game is at classic.minecraft.net for nostalgic fun.
- Java Edition Demo: A free demo of Java Edition available for Windows, Mac, and Linux lets you explore the game briefly.
- Xbox Game Pass:If you’re on Xbox Game Pass, you may luck out! Game Pass often includes Minecraft: Java Edition.
- Get access to Java Edition with your subscription. You can view videos like this one on getting Java Edition with Xbox Game Pass for more information (timestamp 0:17).
Bundle Joy and Edition Upgrades
If you are new to Minecraft on PC, the “Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition for PC” bundle is worth it. This bundle offers both editions at a reduced price. If you own one edition, the other might appear in your account for no extra cost. Mojang supports sharing these editions.
Gameplay Perspectives: Edition Variations
Java and Bedrock possess gameplay features that differentiate them.
Voice Chat: Bring Your Own Mic
Java and Bedrock lack built-in voice chat. To communicate with friends while building, use apps like Discord or in-game modifications like “Simple Voice Chat.” Voice options are unavailable otherwise.
World Size: Vast Yet Limited
Minecraft worlds are renowned for their size. They are “virtually infinite” in concept but have practical limits. The reachable block limit varies based on edition and world type. However, you are unlikely to approach this limit during standard gameplay.
Wither and Ender Dragon Variations
Boss challenges differ between editions. The Wither is tougher in Bedrock Edition. It has increased health, unpredictable movements, and powerful blue skull attacks. The Ender Dragon shows similar stats in both versions but behaves uniquely. In Java, it rests predictably, aiding bed bombing strategies. In Bedrock, it is less predictable.
As noted by DashPum4 in this YouTube video (timestamp 0:00), the Ender Dragon battle differs noticeably between both editions.
Controller Usability: Bedrock Welcomes Gamepads
Java and Bedrock both support mouse and keyboard. However, if you prefer gamepads, Bedrock accommodates that with built-in support. Java does not offer this without using modifications.
Hardcore Mode: A Java-Only Challenge
Java Edition features Hardcore mode, providing the ultimate survival experience. One death leads to the loss of your world. Bedrock lacks this mode, differing from vanilla enthusiasts.
Exclusive Features: Character Creator and Redstone
Each edition offers unique elements.
- Bedrock’s Character Creator: Bedrock includes a Character Creator, allowing customization of avatars with various visual options and items.
- Java’s Redstone Expertise: Java excels in redstone and command block abilities. Complex redstone devices and advanced command systems are easier to create in Java.
Server Fun: Hosting and Management
Creating your own Minecraft server allows for exciting multiplayer experiences.
Aternos: Free Yet Limited
Aternos provides free Minecraft server hosting, supporting Geyser for cross-play. It also allows “cracked” options for players lacking official accounts (using launchers like TLauncher). Aternos has limitations: servers can delete after three months of inactivity and storage is capped at 4GB. Being free comes with some trade-offs.
Realms: Mojang’s Official Service
Realms, a paid service from Mojang, is easy to set up and run but lacks mod support and cross-edition play. Realms for Java support cross-platform play on Windows, Linux, and macOS while allowing user-created skins and mods within the Java environment.
Server Highlights: Penguin.GG and Minefort
If you seek inspiration, try Penguin.GG, popular with YouTuber SB737. For a cross-platform, free server option, Minefort is worth exploring.
The Microsoft Acquisition and Hypixel’s Java Focus
Microsoft purchased Mojang and Minecraft in 2014 for $2.5 billion. This acquisition influenced Minecraft’s future, especially promoting Bedrock Edition with cross-platform play.
The renowned Hypixel server operates primarily on Java Edition. A brief attempt existed to create a Bedrock version, but the main Hypixel experience remains exclusive to Java.
The Future of Minecraft: Mergers and Minecraft 2?
Talks of merging Java and Bedrock circulate, particularly with the “Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition” bundle. As ibxtoycat mentions in this video (timestamp 0:45), storefront unification is evident, yet a complete game engine merger is still uncertain.
As for the possibility of Minecraft 2? Original creator Notch considered this but eventually abandoned those thoughts to pursue other ventures. For now, Minecraft 1 continues to reign supreme.
Third-Party Tools: Mcctoolchest and Voice Chat Mods
The Minecraft community features numerous third-party tools and mods.
- Mcctoolchest: This tool can be downloaded to assist with different tasks in Minecraft; functionalities may vary.
- Simple Voice Chat: For communicating during gameplay, “Simple Voice Chat” is a well-liked mod that offers proximity-based voice chat, improving multiplayer interactions.
Can Java and Bedrock play together? Officially, no direct play exists in Realms. With Geyser and Floodgate magic, as well as careful server configuration, you can create cross-play adventures on Java servers. Enjoy crafting, edition-neutral miners!
