Minecraft Earth is now available in early access for U.S. players on iOS and Android. This version of Minecraft uses AR technology to bring the block-building action of Minecraft into the real world.
Even though a closed beta had been available for certain players, this is the first time that the game is open to anyone to try in the United States. This early access version comes with new features as well.
Following other augmented reality games, for example, Pokemon GO, Minecraft Earth allows players to explore and collect items in real life that they can use in the game. Players can also take these items they collect and build their own little Minecraft worlds in AR.
Minecraft Earth On The Go
Whether players are exploring the world or sitting at home, they can tap on the Tappables to collect items. These items will go into their inventory to be used later.
Another aspect of Minecraft Earth is the Adventures, which allows players to explore a set Minecraft space around your neighborhood. There you can collect blocks and fight monsters.
After collecting resources, you will have to craft items and weapons to progress and fight monsters. This is where the first roadblock is, where it takes a certain amount of time to craft items. This can be skipped by using the Rubies currency.
Other features include the Buildplates mode, where players can create either a diorama or a life-size version to build on. You can even invite your friends to build and play with you.
Besides playing with your friends, another feature is the new “Mobs in the Park”, which will be large Minecraft spaces that groups of players can explore to collect items. These spaces are available in Hudson Yards in New York, Queen’s Walk in London and Campbell’s Cove in Sydney. Players can experience this content from November 16-17, 23-24, 30 to December 1.
Minecraft Earth is available for devices on iOS 10 and Android 8 now. It is free-to-play, only requiring a Microsoft or Xbox Live account to play.
Instead of charging a fee upfront or containing loot boxes, Minecraft Earth will use the “Rubies” as a virtual currency. These rubies can be used to purchase Buildplates and other items in the Minecraft Earth Marketplace.
Mojang has said that this version of the game will include more updates and content in the upcoming weeks. While no set release date is known, Mojang said it will be available worldwide by the end of the year.
To learn more about Minecraft Earth, go to www.minecraft.net.
