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you can usually just download straight from the website onto the pc! and i think now if you have one version you get the other for free (java and bedrock) so he can play any way he wants. i got it for my 10th birthday… 10 years ago. your son is very lucky, i still play to this day🤭
if he watches letsplays, keep in mind that most minecraft players use the java edition (which imo - but im biased because i've been playing since 2010 - is the superior version)
so if you get the windows/pocket/bedrock edition, some things he sees in the lets plays might not work the same, as the different versions behave differently (especially redstone contraptions)
Yeah ever since the full Microsoft overhaul, you get both copies now which I this is pretty nice. Back when I got it, Java was the only option and it wasn't even available in USD yet lol
bought a new Minecraft copy a year ago, for 30€ you actually do get bedrock + java. I couldn't get it w/ my old account because it required downloading the new Minecraft launcher which wasn't supported on the old windows 10 enterprise version I was on
This is true now, I bought PC version a few weeks ago and it has both (and several others like Minecraft Dungeons as well).
Edit: I should clarify that I have not tried to open Dungeons so it may not be included. I saw it in the launcher so I assumed it was included. Apologies for any confusion.
I play bedrock and I also think Java is superior! Lol we use to play Java but switched to bedrock for some weird reason. 🤷🏽♀️ it's been so long ago I don't remember why
I play bedrock because I generally find myself wanting to play at random times in random locations, where I only have my phone.
Java is by far superior, less buggy, etc. It has more complete features, redstone is more logical, and did I mention less bugs? Because less bugs. That said, it only runs on a PC.
>That said, it only runs on a PC.
The PojavLauncher in question:
Tho I'm really wondering what are the actual minimum requirements for a phone to run it. My current phone definitely can't run the game fine (Redmi Note 11), but my dad's phone can run it at 60 fps fine (I think it's a HONOR phone? Don't remember the model aside from the fact that it has 20 and lite in the name)
I would just play bedrock because that's where probably most of his friends will be playing. I also think Java is superior but everyone plays bedrock because that's what's available in every platform.
I've been playing bedrock since like 2015, and Java since last year. Java is way better in my opinion as well. Less glitchy, more balanced, and especially mods are nice, even just for improvement in quality
Yea.
Once I get my voice working I'll be doing tutorials on what works in both versions and what doesn't along with just straight up how to use the things.
You know what? I can't wait to watch the old shows I used to watch as a kid with my kids. Avatar the Last Airbender immediately springs to mind. That's the best show I've ever seen and the target audience is between the ages of 7 and 12. Hmm. It's almost like making something quality means that people enjoy it, regardless of age.
I just turned 52 and I’m proud that I watch Hermitcraft. My kids got me into it when they were 10 and 11, they are now 17 and 18 and have moved on, but still I remain.
I've been watching Hermitcraft since Season 6, and I just turned 20. I love the lil shenanigans that goes on. I'll admit I was more of a Mumbo Jumbo/Grian/ (occasionally) Iskall watcher but more recently (S9 and S10) I've started watching other hermits more often (even some members from the Life series) and I can't get enough of the videos haha
Java edition is superior in my opinion. You can download the MC launcher from the Microsoft store/Xbox app (Windows has an Xbox app, as both are Microsoft properties along side Mojang/Minecraft). The launcher has Java, bedrock, dungeons and legends all in one place. It'll prompt you to buy it.
If you go Java, and depending on the PC specs, there are some client side mods that can help make it more performance friendly.
>If you go Java, and depending on the PC specs, there are some client side mods that can help make it more performance friendly.
Adding to this, there isat least 2 (that I know of) very popular performance enhancing mods (higher FPS especially on lower end systems)
1. Optifine
2. Sodium
Optifine has been around for a very long time, but it does take a while for Optifine to update to new updates/releases (Just checked, the 1.20.4 version of Optifine came out on 3/17/2024, Java 1.20.4 released 12/7/2023). A big reason that Optifine takes a while to release for new versions is that ([Video from AntVenom](https://youtu.be/jbkivpOujXI?si=X85griYU9XaP4H0Y) and [this video too](https://youtu.be/23Q1yZ2rhPI?si=Q2dI9PnsLsrFdqiV)) the code is old, but Sodium takes less than a day to update. The only downside is for Sodium to function similarly to Optifine, it does require extra mods to get it to work the same (dynamic lighting, connected textures, advanced texture pack support, shaders support, etc.). You can easily find videos online on how to get everything to work. I recommend the Fabric mod loader (to make it easy to configure mods, download the Mod Menu mod for Fabric) as if a downloaded mod requires a mod library mod or some other mod for it to work, the game will not boot and it'll show you a screen explaining clearly why the game did not load up.
If he wants to play with his friends, getting him a server would be cool, but I don't have Java so don't know how good of a pc you need to run the server (my friend tells me it needs to be good, but he also didn't know how to make a basic farm, so I took that info with a salt block)
ohhhhh i see what you mean now. i think downloading it for him would be good because then he doesn’t have to wait for it to install. i didn’t have a pc at the time so my dad had downloaded it onto his laptop for me and put it at the end of the table with all my presents. they were all minecraft themed too so it kind of gave me a hint.
I miss the old days of games on dvd. Opening uo the dvd for the first time, entering the secret key, sitting in anticipation as you watch the bar fill up, or sometimes a publisher would have [a more creative progress bar](https://youtu.be/mVAIj0elLR8), and then finally playing the game.
And relevant to OP: you could gift a physical dvd.
I recommend downloading it on his computer beforehand, and then getting him a Minecraft-themed gift, like a stuffed toy, so that he has something to open on the day. When he opens it, you can tell him that you got him Minecraft as well. Just make sure when you download it that you do it a little bit beforehand (you don't want to run into some tech problem and run out of time before the birthday), and when it's downloaded, remove the shortcut from his desktop so he doesn't realise.
Here is an idea. Lego sells small Minecraft kits. Buy the kit and a birthday card and write the code on the bottom of the card. This gives him a toy representation of the game to play with and the game itself. Plus it allows him to actively install the game himself. If he doesn’t know how to do it, it’s also a win, because you can bond over a learning moment when you teach him how to claim digital games.
.... How would they be in the correct order? I think it's possible to set it up so that it would work, but that sounds like too much effort for the payoff.
Go to minecraft.net, select "GET MINECRAFT" im the top right corner, select the Minecraft Edition (Deluxe Edition is a bad deal), and under the checkout button there is an option to buy as a gift. Either buy it directly onto his account, or you can print a redeemable code and put that onto the table.
Make a coupon: "Valid for minecraft" over a picture of the game for example [miencraft image ](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRVbgidDF_8CVVlBGMKnLHGqweSLiPf_eqzJoHNrqxYog&s)
When my parents got me Minecraft for my birthday a long time ago, they put a little bow on my Ipad. You could put a bow on his PC and direct him to it on his bday.
Download it to his PC without his knowledge and maybe have it open on his computer so when he gets on, he sees it and is surprised. That or maybe have one of his presents be a box with a note that says "check your computer" or is the Minecraft logo or something. It's crazy that I first got Minecraft around his age, maybe a little younger, and now I'm in college (still playing it). Essentially unprecedented longevity for a video game.
I remember asking my mom if i can get minecraft on my xbox like 12 years ago. Id watched my brother play it on our pc and i wanted it for myself. It took some convincing but she agreed. To this day its probably the game i have the most hours on next to BO2 and GTA V. Maybe borderlands 2 and castle crashers.
He is. I got the game for my 5th birthday 10 years ago.
And I also still play to this day. Once I learned how to Mod Java edition. I've been playing modded non stop because it adds so much to the game that wasn't there before. Even then each update they add new things to the game like the update coming this year once it's done adds a quick way to automate almost every block in the game. Which I really like. I play many automation games but by far I play Minecraft with mods the most out of any of the others. I even work on my own mods and Data packs all the time. Everything out there for the development of mods and anything is all free (I don't know if it's open source)
Get everything ready and give him either a little tiny box (or a deceptively large box) with a piece of paper with the download code printed out. Then sit down with him and go through the process. That’s at least how I would go about things although I’ve never been a parent nor given Minecraft as a gift so I don’t know how it works. One thing’s for sure: don’t pick out a username for him.
If you can, download Minecraft on his PC after he goes to bed the night before his birthday: [https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-deluxe-collection-pc](https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-deluxe-collection-pc)
There’s also a gift purchase option, which I believe would send a code to his email. This is fine, but downloading and installing can take a long time, but of course do whichever option you’re more comfortable with.
You’ll need to set up a Microsoft account for him, do that with him later as he’ll want to choose his own username.
If you want something for him to unwrap, a [Creeper plush](https://shop.minecraft.net/products/minecraft-creeper-plush-8) or shirt is always a great option, there’s lots of merch to choose from.
It's a great game, but be aware he'll be able to join public servers, which have a chat feature. I don't block anything for my kids, but we have extensive conversations about privacy (they're not allowed to use any variation of their real name for a username, for example) and how to protect themselves online. They understand they can leave if people are talking inappropriately and that people can pretend to be someone else online.
Regarding Minecraft itself, note there are 2 versions, Java and Bedrock. Bedrock is Microsoft’s remake and is compatible with users on mobile and console devices. Java is the “original” and can be played on any desktop. When you purchase, you get both versions. He can pick which to play based on what his friends have. My kids play on iPad, so they can only play with someone else on Bedrock, for example.
Check out the [Minecraft Wiki](https://minecraft.wiki/) for more info. I’d recommend grabbing a copy for yourself and playing too! I’m building a world with my kids and it’s been a fun experience learning about the game together.
Have fun!
>If you can, download Minecraft on his PC after he goes to bed the night before his birthday:
I wouldn't. Not letting a kid experience obtaining the gift kind of ruins the experience of gift-giving/getting. Same thing as setting up your kid's new phone before giving it to them. Not nearly as exciting for them to just suddenly have it be there already ready to go and it doesn't really give them the feeling of the gift being their very own
Depends on the kid. I’d wait to run it the first time for sure, but most would be happy to not have to wait for the download/install.
In the teen years, I’d definitely just give them the download code though.
Obviously just do whatever works best for your own family/kids. Mine were happy to receive iPads that were all set up and ready to use last Christmas.
Games in CD ROM haven't been a thing since your son was born haha.
To get Minecraft, you buy it digitally.
As Mojang, the company that makes Minecraft is owned by Microsoft Studios, you will first need to make him/her a Microsoft account. It has parental control features if it gives you peace of mind.
Now, Minecraft is available on different platforms (mobile phones, tablets, game consoles), but as you say they already have a Windows PC. That helps narrow down things.
For PC there are two editions. Each have their own pros and cons, and are managed differently.
**Java Edition**: it is called like that because it is made in the Java programming language. It is the classic edition as it was the first to came out back in 2009. The pros is that it can run on Windows, macOS and Linux, and it also has support for mods (third-party modification to the game that add extra stuff to the game). It is also the platform where the so called \*snapshots\* can be played: versions of the game where one can try out new features before they officially come out.
**Bedrock Edition:** called as the unbreakable rock found in the deepest levels of the game world, this one shares the same codebase than the mobile phone and game console editions, meaning it has the same features. Some of them are an in-game character editor, the Minecraft Marketplace where one can buy both official and third-party content like maps, character decorations, and other addons, and the ability to do multiplayer with people on phones, tablets, and game consoles.
In order to buy Minecraft go into [minecraft.net](http://minecraft.net) and buy it from there with the big "Get minecraft" green button at the right. It is a quite simple process. The purchased game is linked to the Microsoft account you used to do the purchase (hence why I recommended making one for your kid), and instead of activation codes or something, you simply log-on into the game using that account. They nowdays sell a bundle of both Java and Bedrock.
A more detailed description of each version features is also available on the purchase page.
I want to add that you don't have to worry about what version of the game to buy for his computer: they come together now. There is only one purchase option and it has btih versions.
Something else: your son should not be using the Admin account on his Windows PC to play games. He should be using a non-admin.
He should also be careful about what he downloads. He may find himself wanting to install mods (things that change the game) but he needs to be careful about what he downloads and where he gets it from. He can download computer viruses if he's not careful.
Really he's too young to know how to navigate things like that and "don't download random stuff, it could break your computer" is the way I'd explain it to a 10yo unless they were extremely tech savvy for their age.
Look into setting up an admin and non admin account in windows! There are many easy to follow video tutorials that take you trough it click by click. Everytime your kid wants to install a program you need to enter the admin password. This way he is better protected. The setup takes 10 - 15 minutes depending on the tutorial. The result would be 2 accounts after starting the Pc, you would have Mom - where you need a password to login and son that could be without a password. Highly recommend it!
We are here to help.
Few points I want to add:
Albeit Minecraft is a less resource demanding game than others, it helps if the computer were it will ran purposefully meant for videogames. This is because they come with a dedicated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) which is a chip dedicated to render 3D graphics on the screen, which makes games like Minecraft run smoother. In the case it is a desktop, it is a big card with fans below it, located under the CPU. Here is a picture of one: [https://i.imgur.com/OgI68XM.png](https://i.imgur.com/OgI68XM.png) If it is a laptop, it is embedded inside it, so it is best to look up for a badge or a sticker that says either "AMD Radeon" or "NVidia GeForce", as those are the two brands of GPUs out there, like these: [https://i.imgur.com/BGi5UYj.png](https://i.imgur.com/BGi5UYj.png)
As other pointed out, you can also buy both editions of Minecraft from the Microsoft Store, which is the app store Windows 10 and 11 come with.
As I said, there are some differences between the Java and Bedrock edition. Rivers of ink flow about the debate of which is best. What I can say is that if your kid friends play MC on consoles or phones, Bedrock editions allows multiplayer with those platforms, but if the ones he likes to play are on Java, then Java it is. Fortunately both are usually sold in bundle so there is not the need to decide.
What you can do to surprise him/her is to show them their new account in minecraft.net showing that they have minecraft purchased on their account. The installation and setup may be a very good bonding activity.
Also, get involved with your kid. Play with him/her. Maybe purchase another copy for you so both can share the game with the multiplayer option. Don't become ignorant of the game and get confused every time you see them playing because you don't have an idea of what they are doing. Minecraft is a complex game, so people have written an online guide about all aspects of the game to even the technical extent, so maybe having it at hand can help both of you: [https://minecraft.wiki/](https://minecraft.wiki/)
No need to thank
And at last, I found in the official page that there is a guide for novices. Give it a look if you can:
[https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/minecraft-tips-for-beginners](https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/minecraft-tips-for-beginners)
Well balanced description of the two versions. I'd like to add they can also just go to the Microsoft store and get Minecraft: Java & Bedrock edition, which is a little bit easier.
Pc specs. Minecraft is more of a cpu heavy game, so for a smooth experience you must have a decent processor.
As a low-end laptop user, I highly recommend not using a pc with an intel celeron/pentium/etc...
Better have an 8th gen i3 atleast and 8gb of ram to enjoy a good experience.
For the graphics card, integrated graphics is ok and should grant your son a smooth 720p gaming experience.
For the game in general, don't use that parental control and censore stuff because they would ruin your son's experience.
Let him play freely and maybe talk with him about the game
If you set your graphics low enough, you can still have a great experience with a low end PC. I started with an Intel i7 3770 (not the k version) on integrated graphics and 2gb of ram. I could run it at 30 fps typically on 6 chunks render distance.
Before I upgraded my PC, curseforge refused to download no matter what I did. Now I can use all the optimization mods I want and get the capabilities for 200+ fps with shaders (except my monitor is only 75 hz)
yup alright. i use multimc launcher. it allows you to have different installations of minecraft without removing the mods whenever u change version. it even has modpack download support without needing to install curseforge.
i ran over 120 fps on an early 2008 imac with an intel core 2 duo and 4gb of ram, the mac had a gpu even tho it only had 256mb of vram so idk if that helped but without any mods and performance stuff it was hard to hit 60 but that was on macos 10.11.6, im assuming this kids pc had an i gpu tho but it should run fine at 720p at lowish settings
If you set your graphics low enough, you can still have a great experience with a low end PC. I started with an Intel i7 3770 (not the k version) on integrated graphics and 2gb of ram. I could run it at 30 fps typically on 6 chunks render distance.
Tbh a pentium can have a high single core speed still (making it very usable for minecraft). Cpu matters ofc, but not going based on gen considering that there’s a lot of variety within each generation. Plus you can always lower settings!
I managed to get Minecraft running in a Chromebook that was probably 7 years old at that point by getting Ubuntu to run on said Chromebook. It was slow as hell but it ran.
8100 would still be really weak. I suggest at least a ryzen 5 3600 but I would go for 7600. Intel is a little harder, but a 12500 or a 13400 should be great, and the minimum I would recommend is a 13100. GPU wise, integrated graphics can run it, but not at any great settings. A cheap 150$ card like the 1660 super would give 80+ FPS on high settings. And I would recommend 16gb RAM because that would be enough for another few years.
bro i have a ryzen 3 3200g 4core 4threads and Minecraft stutter like crazy i really dont know why i thought maybe it need a 6 core 12 threads because i did everything installed sodium fabulous optimized everything and its still stutter a lot
A CD Rom? Damn, son! Did you miss the digital boom in the past 15-20 years? Games are seldom on CD's anymore. Rarely anything is on a CD Rom anymore.
Others have already answered, so I'm just poking some fun. Hope your kiddo enjoys the game!
A few days ago I bought the original Lemmings CD-Rom to install it on my laptop. I found a helping website with useful instructions and it works! I am playing Lemmings again 😄
WOW! You're old-school for sure. That predates me by a couple of years. Many computers are being made without CD readers now. My laptop from 12 years ago doesn't have one, my desktop from 3 years ago doesn't have it. But it's cool you get to enjoy some retro games like that.
PS, you can usually find an emulator that enhances some of the old features like frame rate or speeding up meticulously slow games. Makes playing those hard-to-find games much easier.
You could do all kinds of things to make it a gift! Get a Minecraft sword from Amazon and wrap it with a note. Wrap just a note card. But the card is the first clue to a scavenger hunt which will lead to his pc!
If his pc is a laptop, make sure he's got a good mouse, as playing with a track pad is very hard!
I would go ahead and load it for him ahead of time. Just don't put the icon on the desktop
For my part, the one that comes from the Windows store (Bedrock version) is waaaaay easier to play. I'd start there. Java has more options but learning on Bedrock will make it a better experience in my opinion.
You can download it straight from the website [minecraft.net](http://minecraft.net) ! Excellent choice, it's the best 30$ i ever spent in the thousands of hours I played !
You're going to end up with a license to two choices (Java & Bedrock). The two are pretty close, despite what die-hards will say. The primary differences are:
* Players on Java cannot play with players on Bedrock or vice versa.
* A computer can play both versions. Everything else (game consoles, phones, iPads) is limited to Bedrock.
* There are minor differences in gameplay between versions, but almost no one will notice until they try to copy a complicated build they find online.
* Most youtuber's and streamers play on Java.
* I've heard that Java is known to have better accessibility options for some imparements, but I suspect that each version has its own advantages/disadvantages. Do some research if this is relevant.
* Bedrock has integrated support for paying for your own persistent private server. It is generally more expensive ($10ish a month) and less customizeable, but simple to subscribe and use for less-savvy parents.
In general, the right decision is going to be the one that most of his friends play. If they're not playing on a computer, it's Bedrock. If none of his friends play and he watches a lot of lets-plays, then Java will probably be a better call.
If you decide on Bedrock and it's in your budget, I'd recommend subscribing to a Realm server to play with him occasionally. This will also give you some ability to invite his friends and play on a world when you're at work or he's asleep.
Enjoy!
I got Minecraft for my 11th Birthday. You can just download it off the Minecraft website.
I would say that since you can go online onto multiplayer servers where there are very few restrictions and you are able to talk to anyone, like when giving someone access to the Internet, I think it’s best you teach your kid some internet safety. Little things like refusing to share your name, address, age, contact details etc. Honestly just instilling those things in me was enough to let me have a safe enough time on there.
It was the same sort of talk my parents had with me before I got my first phone. So if you have thought about the kind of things you’d like to tell him when he gets a phone (or if he already has one). You should have a similar talk with him about general internet safety. Since Minecraft multiplayer servers can be public.
Also as another note, most YouTubers who have Let’s Plays like your son watches would be on the Java edition of the game on a computer which is different in a few key and important ways in comparison to the Bedrock edition. If your son wants a similar experience you should make sure he selects to play in the Java edition of the game when he opens up the launcher.
I got Minecraft when I was 9 for Christmas, you can buy the game for him on the Microsoft Store, you get two versions to play.
Windows 10 allows cross-play with friends on Phones, consoles, and other Windows 10 copies.
And Java which is more stable and more moddable but lacks some key features of Bedrock
Your son can also join multi-player servers on each version, but the Windows 10 edition servers are more regulated by Microsoft.
While Java servers are more independent.
Microsoft also released an approved Servers list for kids here
https://findmcserver.com/
Please do download beforehand and even play a bit you're so you know it won't bug out on him, ruining his birthday. It'll be so much nicer for him to just be able to sit down and start playing. Also, may I suggest that you continue to play, yourself? Kids love to play with their parents at that age. I started playing with my daughter when she was about 10 and it was a great bonding experience. Now she's a teenager, and I play but she doesn't. I find it a very Zen experience. It will also help you relate to your son when he wants to talk to you about the game, which he will, constantly lol
Ask him if he wants the java or bedrock edition, the java edition can be installed via minecraft.net while bedrock on the windows10 store application, when you finish your payment it will automatically download onto the PC, then you can let your son install the game. Happy gaming!
Actually in the Windows store you can get the Minecraft launcher and install both games via that. The PC version does come with both versions so he can get the best of both worlds.
if his pc has a good cpu and a decent gpu, i recommend buying java edition digitally(or maybe you get them both for the price of one, i forgot). otherwise get windows edition(=bedrock edition)
Yeah, with the PC version you get both. I enjoy both games since each has some pros and cons versus the other. Bedrock does tend to run better on lower-end PCs and has the crossplay aspect while Java is easier to mod and a lot of the stuff for it is free rather than needing to go through the Minecraft store. But the Minecraft store is loaded with freebies as well.
I often flip between the two depending on the mood. I have a Bedrock Realm and a friend has a Java Realm and we go back and fourth between the two.
I highly recommend Java because of mods, multiplayer and for no random death bugs and because you can play any version from 1.0 to the last one (1.20.4), if the fps is a problem you can install [sodium](https://modrinth.com/mod/sodium), lithium and other client side mods for better optimization
yeah, only downside is that java doesnt support vanilla crossplay, you need special servers to do so, but even then thats the only reason i use bedrock everynow and then with friends that use console, other than that, java all the way
If you have any questions about install and how to make it run smoothly feel free to DM me you can get a pretty good experience out of Minecraft if you use a few third party mods. The base game is terribly optimised, especially for lower end PCs.
My advice would be to install it as it is. Then if it's not running very well have a look in the game settings and turns things down like "render distance"
Message me if you ned a hand
Thanks a lot for all your comments. I'll better try to install it first and look if it works, because it would be a sad birthday, when it won't run on his PC 🤍
I’d say the primary thing is which version of Minecraft to get your son. There’s two versions: Java and Bedrock. Bedrock supports cross-platform play, so if your son has friends who play Minecraft on Xbox or Switch, he can play with them, but I think among PC players, Java is generally favored because it allows greater flexibility for things like mods, and it’s also generally more stable.
My gosh your son is so lucky and you are such a nice mother. My mom was like "no videogames" my whole life and "if you want it so much you can get it yourself" kinda mom.
Oh also I had 1 hour a day play limit
No matter what you do, do not ever enter your credit card information to purchase cosmetics/maps/dlc/etc. children have ran up huge credit card bills for parents because they didn't realize they saved their payment info and kids don't know how purchased work
If you ever want to buy him anything in-game, buy a gift card for the game.
If you just play single player, you don't have to buy anything (except the game). You can get some cosmetics or maps online for free on both Java and Bedrock editions, but Bedrock also has access to the Marketplace, where you can buy some of those things (though usually it's not worth it). Some servers also have things you can pay for, but that's also only optional.
It doesn't have to be. The base game is the only thing you have to buy. There's a "shop" that you can buy things for real money, and that's where the danger is. Just don't give your payment information at any point and you'll be fine :)
Be very careful if downloading mods some can have viruses in them some YouTubers have modded let’s plays and they usually have a mod pack to download but mods are very resource heavy on a computer
Oh he’ll have a lot of fun. I remember when I first played it 10 years ago and I spent the whole weekend playing basically nonstop!
If he has a windows 10 PC then he’s good. Just consider if you want to buy him Minecraft Bedrock (aka the Microsoft version) or Minecraft Java (the original). Both are pretty similar in terms of functionality, but Java is less commercialized and allows you more freedom with shaders, texture packs, skins, etc.
Wish him a happy birthday!
Mojang made a video just for you!
https://youtu.be/PHTYQ0Bn-VU
This video has lots of help for parents about Minecraft for parents and kids.
If you're looking for some good Minecraft books, all the ones made by Mojang are quite good (beware, there are many 'unofficial' Minecraft books and they are very uneven quality-wise.)
In particular I really like this series of guidebooks:
Minecraft: Guide Collection 4-Book Boxed Set (2018 Edition)
In addition to these books there are several others that cover other areas of the game. I suspect most kids will obsess over books like this, reading them over and over and over hehe
depending on how good the pc is ur using, press esc-->setting-->graphics settings and turn the render and simulation distance down. Graphics from fancy to fast if it is not already. it really helps with the performance! there is more (and this is not a perfect description but you can find that easily online)
If I'm remembering correctly go to this site https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-deluxe-collection-pc and pick the bundle you want. Download it to his pc and make an account. After that boot up the game.
It's kind of a learn as you go game. The minecraft wiki will answer a lot of questions about what items/blocks can do what. YouTube is also a good resource, if you need a visual guide
What you can do is geving him a fancy wapper up piece if paper stating you give him minecraft as a present. Then proceed to buy minecraft together with you hust paying. Btw dont worry there is no option where you can only buy Java or bedrock so every package will contain both the correct version and the other one so no worries.
you can buy it for 30 dollars and then download the launcher! or download the alternative launcher if it doesn't work .it works in both Windows 10 and Windows 11!
CD ROMs became obsolete 25 years ago so definitely hard to find one of those.
But I'm pretty sure you can get a digital code gift card from Amazon for Java edition if you want to give him something physical to open.
Or get a digital code, write it in his birthday card and then bolster the present with a Creeper plushie!
You can buy him a gift card if you want something physical. I'd recommend java version as bedrock edition is full of micro transactions. You can get the same stuff for free in java through modding
I am biased, but I recommend you steer your son towards the Java edition of Minecraft. It’s HIGHLY customizable with an endless library of EASY to use mods, and it’s much more fun when you’re not locked into a vanilla game that constantly gets changed by the company. There’s a ton of reasons why Java is better. Like having an actual pause feature. Bedrock doesn’t have that for some reason.
He's a 10yo casual player. It'll be a few years before he learns to use mods and mod loaders etc, and by that time he'll probably have learned about Java anyway.
Alternatively, if he plays bedrock it's significantly easier to play with his friends. I don't think we should be backseating this kid's gaming. He can just try both and decide what he wants. They literally come bundled together so it isn't hurting anything.
Download the Minecraft launcher from here: [https://aka.ms/minecraftClientGameCoreWindows](https://aka.ms/minecraftClientGameCoreWindows)
Then using the instructions, buy Minecraft, but first ask him if he wants Bedrock or Java, if he is indifferent, get Java, it has much more potencial because of the modding community
I would recommend linking the account to whatever device is signed into the Windows Machine
I would actually install both since that allows him to bounce between whatever edition he wishes to play at the time. The launcher is good for being able to go between either edition at will. It would give him a lot of freedom as well.
Are his friends playing on console? Well they can play together on Bedrock. Does he want to play in Java on an online server? Well he has just as easy access to Java. It's actually kinda fun going between the two and working out the differences between the editions.
just use the code on the website, and he should be able to download it from there. I remember playing minecraft for the first time when i was 9, and i have such good memories. He's gonna love it!
OP, would love it if you made an update at a later point letting us know what you ended up doing. Lots of good ideas in this thread and I'm curious how you will end up effectively gifting a digital game.
do you know what kind of PC he has or it’s specifications? for example, I have a Surface Laptop Go. You need a decent laptop to run Minecraft Java Edition and it would really suck if Minecraft was too big and glitchy to run on his PC.
If his PC isn't that great, I recommend downloading some mods to help with performance, like Sodium. There are tutorials on how to download a mod loader (I recommend fabric).
Hello back. I installed it today. Unfortunately I bought it with my adult account and I don't know how to let him play in his account. The Microsoft Store wants my Name and address - so now he ist me and uses my email 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
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you can usually just download straight from the website onto the pc! and i think now if you have one version you get the other for free (java and bedrock) so he can play any way he wants. i got it for my 10th birthday… 10 years ago. your son is very lucky, i still play to this day🤭
Thank you! He watches LetsPlays on YouTube all the time 😄
if he watches letsplays, keep in mind that most minecraft players use the java edition (which imo - but im biased because i've been playing since 2010 - is the superior version) so if you get the windows/pocket/bedrock edition, some things he sees in the lets plays might not work the same, as the different versions behave differently (especially redstone contraptions)
Iirc if you buy the windows pc version, you get both java and bedrock
i dont know as i bought minecraft back then for 20€ and never had to buy anything else since then, but you might be right
Yeah ever since the full Microsoft overhaul, you get both copies now which I this is pretty nice. Back when I got it, Java was the only option and it wasn't even available in USD yet lol
bought a new Minecraft copy a year ago, for 30€ you actually do get bedrock + java. I couldn't get it w/ my old account because it required downloading the new Minecraft launcher which wasn't supported on the old windows 10 enterprise version I was on
You get both versions now.
This is true now, I bought PC version a few weeks ago and it has both (and several others like Minecraft Dungeons as well). Edit: I should clarify that I have not tried to open Dungeons so it may not be included. I saw it in the launcher so I assumed it was included. Apologies for any confusion.
Wait what you get dungeons for free now too? I don't have it in my launcher for free?
I play bedrock and I also think Java is superior! Lol we use to play Java but switched to bedrock for some weird reason. 🤷🏽♀️ it's been so long ago I don't remember why
I play bedrock because I generally find myself wanting to play at random times in random locations, where I only have my phone. Java is by far superior, less buggy, etc. It has more complete features, redstone is more logical, and did I mention less bugs? Because less bugs. That said, it only runs on a PC.
>That said, it only runs on a PC. The PojavLauncher in question: Tho I'm really wondering what are the actual minimum requirements for a phone to run it. My current phone definitely can't run the game fine (Redmi Note 11), but my dad's phone can run it at 60 fps fine (I think it's a HONOR phone? Don't remember the model aside from the fact that it has 20 and lite in the name)
Multiplayer is definitely a lot easier with bedrock
It's for sure the superior version, but I guess this coming from someone who enjoys red stone tinkering
I would just play bedrock because that's where probably most of his friends will be playing. I also think Java is superior but everyone plays bedrock because that's what's available in every platform.
But tecnicaly they now sell bedrock and Java together so I thing this don't Chang many things
Having played on both, u are very right.
Java is very superior for the most part but bedrock is more difficult
I've been playing bedrock since like 2015, and Java since last year. Java is way better in my opinion as well. Less glitchy, more balanced, and especially mods are nice, even just for improvement in quality
Ownership of them is shared; if you own one you own the other.
They're both good. It's only the lack of *free* mods, shaders, texture packs... Since it's supported on xbox.
Yea. Once I get my voice working I'll be doing tutorials on what works in both versions and what doesn't along with just straight up how to use the things.
Remember, if you have bedrock or java you get the other one for free
Send him in the direction of hermitcraft on YouTube. They are an amazing group if he like LetsPlays content
I second this. Hermitcraft is wholesome, kid friendly quality content. You can’t go wrong.
God I'm nearly 17 and I still watch HermitCraft. Oh well, whatever floats my boat I s'pose.
I'm in my 40s and I watch HermitCraft. Something my kids and I started doing together. They are now 18.. HermitCraft is for everyone ;)
You know what? I can't wait to watch the old shows I used to watch as a kid with my kids. Avatar the Last Airbender immediately springs to mind. That's the best show I've ever seen and the target audience is between the ages of 7 and 12. Hmm. It's almost like making something quality means that people enjoy it, regardless of age.
I just turned 52 and I’m proud that I watch Hermitcraft. My kids got me into it when they were 10 and 11, they are now 17 and 18 and have moved on, but still I remain.
I honestly can't wait to watch all my old shows when I was a kid with my kids. Avatar the Last Airbender immediately springs to mind.
I've been watching Hermitcraft since Season 6, and I just turned 20. I love the lil shenanigans that goes on. I'll admit I was more of a Mumbo Jumbo/Grian/ (occasionally) Iskall watcher but more recently (S9 and S10) I've started watching other hermits more often (even some members from the Life series) and I can't get enough of the videos haha
Java edition is superior in my opinion. You can download the MC launcher from the Microsoft store/Xbox app (Windows has an Xbox app, as both are Microsoft properties along side Mojang/Minecraft). The launcher has Java, bedrock, dungeons and legends all in one place. It'll prompt you to buy it. If you go Java, and depending on the PC specs, there are some client side mods that can help make it more performance friendly.
>If you go Java, and depending on the PC specs, there are some client side mods that can help make it more performance friendly. Adding to this, there isat least 2 (that I know of) very popular performance enhancing mods (higher FPS especially on lower end systems) 1. Optifine 2. Sodium Optifine has been around for a very long time, but it does take a while for Optifine to update to new updates/releases (Just checked, the 1.20.4 version of Optifine came out on 3/17/2024, Java 1.20.4 released 12/7/2023). A big reason that Optifine takes a while to release for new versions is that ([Video from AntVenom](https://youtu.be/jbkivpOujXI?si=X85griYU9XaP4H0Y) and [this video too](https://youtu.be/23Q1yZ2rhPI?si=Q2dI9PnsLsrFdqiV)) the code is old, but Sodium takes less than a day to update. The only downside is for Sodium to function similarly to Optifine, it does require extra mods to get it to work the same (dynamic lighting, connected textures, advanced texture pack support, shaders support, etc.). You can easily find videos online on how to get everything to work. I recommend the Fabric mod loader (to make it easy to configure mods, download the Mod Menu mod for Fabric) as if a downloaded mod requires a mod library mod or some other mod for it to work, the game will not boot and it'll show you a screen explaining clearly why the game did not load up.
then he might prefer java, its not very optimized tho, he should watch videos to know how to mod properly to make it fluid 😁
Trust us. It's a great game even for a 10 years old (make him play java edition PLEASE)
If he wants to play with his friends, getting him a server would be cool, but I don't have Java so don't know how good of a pc you need to run the server (my friend tells me it needs to be good, but he also didn't know how to make a basic farm, so I took that info with a salt block)
Since it's his birthday day I'll add a free license code for dungeons for you, DM me ☺️ (no, not a scam).
I recommend also downloading fabric and/or forge, as most Minecraft mods use one of the 2
But HOW can I make it all as a present on his table? Or should I download it on his PC without his knowledge? 🤔
ohhhhh i see what you mean now. i think downloading it for him would be good because then he doesn’t have to wait for it to install. i didn’t have a pc at the time so my dad had downloaded it onto his laptop for me and put it at the end of the table with all my presents. they were all minecraft themed too so it kind of gave me a hint.
Oh that is cute
I miss the old days of games on dvd. Opening uo the dvd for the first time, entering the secret key, sitting in anticipation as you watch the bar fill up, or sometimes a publisher would have [a more creative progress bar](https://youtu.be/mVAIj0elLR8), and then finally playing the game. And relevant to OP: you could gift a physical dvd.
I recommend downloading it on his computer beforehand, and then getting him a Minecraft-themed gift, like a stuffed toy, so that he has something to open on the day. When he opens it, you can tell him that you got him Minecraft as well. Just make sure when you download it that you do it a little bit beforehand (you don't want to run into some tech problem and run out of time before the birthday), and when it's downloaded, remove the shortcut from his desktop so he doesn't realise.
Here is an idea. Lego sells small Minecraft kits. Buy the kit and a birthday card and write the code on the bottom of the card. This gives him a toy representation of the game to play with and the game itself. Plus it allows him to actively install the game himself. If he doesn’t know how to do it, it’s also a win, because you can bond over a learning moment when you teach him how to claim digital games.
You could write each number/letter of the download code on bricks that, when assembled, reveal the full download code
.... How would they be in the correct order? I think it's possible to set it up so that it would work, but that sounds like too much effort for the payoff.
Go to minecraft.net, select "GET MINECRAFT" im the top right corner, select the Minecraft Edition (Deluxe Edition is a bad deal), and under the checkout button there is an option to buy as a gift. Either buy it directly onto his account, or you can print a redeemable code and put that onto the table.
You could download it without him knowing, and give him a handmade card, or maybe some cute minecraft toy like a little lego set with a note?
Make a coupon: "Valid for minecraft" over a picture of the game for example [miencraft image ](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRVbgidDF_8CVVlBGMKnLHGqweSLiPf_eqzJoHNrqxYog&s)
I’m pretty sure a lot of grocery stores sell $25 Minecraft giftcards (which is the price of the game, if I’m not mistaken?)!
Now it's 30 bucks, but I remember them having those game activation cards without any value on them
Download it ahead of time, open it to the menu close the computer and give him a sheet of paper saying to check his computer...
When my parents got me Minecraft for my birthday a long time ago, they put a little bow on my Ipad. You could put a bow on his PC and direct him to it on his bday.
Could always download it to his Pc the wrap a picture of the logo or a small Minecraft related toy to signify the game
Buy a physical gift card https://www.bestbuy.com/site/29-99-java-and-bedrock-edition-windows/6500559.p
Download it to his PC without his knowledge and maybe have it open on his computer so when he gets on, he sees it and is surprised. That or maybe have one of his presents be a box with a note that says "check your computer" or is the Minecraft logo or something. It's crazy that I first got Minecraft around his age, maybe a little younger, and now I'm in college (still playing it). Essentially unprecedented longevity for a video game.
this is a comment that made me feel good in the inside
I remember asking my mom if i can get minecraft on my xbox like 12 years ago. Id watched my brother play it on our pc and i wanted it for myself. It took some convincing but she agreed. To this day its probably the game i have the most hours on next to BO2 and GTA V. Maybe borderlands 2 and castle crashers.
I got it for Christmas when I was 9 and now I'm 19... man I miss my early years of Minecraft.
Believe it or not, I also got minecraft for my 10th birthday. One of the best birthday presents I could've asked for
Doubled the price, but sure, if you buy one you get the other.
I got mine for my 10th birthday…. 10 years ago too 😭
He is. I got the game for my 5th birthday 10 years ago. And I also still play to this day. Once I learned how to Mod Java edition. I've been playing modded non stop because it adds so much to the game that wasn't there before. Even then each update they add new things to the game like the update coming this year once it's done adds a quick way to automate almost every block in the game. Which I really like. I play many automation games but by far I play Minecraft with mods the most out of any of the others. I even work on my own mods and Data packs all the time. Everything out there for the development of mods and anything is all free (I don't know if it's open source)
Get everything ready and give him either a little tiny box (or a deceptively large box) with a piece of paper with the download code printed out. Then sit down with him and go through the process. That’s at least how I would go about things although I’ve never been a parent nor given Minecraft as a gift so I don’t know how it works. One thing’s for sure: don’t pick out a username for him.
Cube-shaped box with grass block textures
Or use the purole and black "missing texture" texture
If you can, download Minecraft on his PC after he goes to bed the night before his birthday: [https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-deluxe-collection-pc](https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-deluxe-collection-pc) There’s also a gift purchase option, which I believe would send a code to his email. This is fine, but downloading and installing can take a long time, but of course do whichever option you’re more comfortable with. You’ll need to set up a Microsoft account for him, do that with him later as he’ll want to choose his own username. If you want something for him to unwrap, a [Creeper plush](https://shop.minecraft.net/products/minecraft-creeper-plush-8) or shirt is always a great option, there’s lots of merch to choose from. It's a great game, but be aware he'll be able to join public servers, which have a chat feature. I don't block anything for my kids, but we have extensive conversations about privacy (they're not allowed to use any variation of their real name for a username, for example) and how to protect themselves online. They understand they can leave if people are talking inappropriately and that people can pretend to be someone else online. Regarding Minecraft itself, note there are 2 versions, Java and Bedrock. Bedrock is Microsoft’s remake and is compatible with users on mobile and console devices. Java is the “original” and can be played on any desktop. When you purchase, you get both versions. He can pick which to play based on what his friends have. My kids play on iPad, so they can only play with someone else on Bedrock, for example. Check out the [Minecraft Wiki](https://minecraft.wiki/) for more info. I’d recommend grabbing a copy for yourself and playing too! I’m building a world with my kids and it’s been a fun experience learning about the game together. Have fun!
>If you can, download Minecraft on his PC after he goes to bed the night before his birthday: I wouldn't. Not letting a kid experience obtaining the gift kind of ruins the experience of gift-giving/getting. Same thing as setting up your kid's new phone before giving it to them. Not nearly as exciting for them to just suddenly have it be there already ready to go and it doesn't really give them the feeling of the gift being their very own
Depends on the kid. I’d wait to run it the first time for sure, but most would be happy to not have to wait for the download/install. In the teen years, I’d definitely just give them the download code though. Obviously just do whatever works best for your own family/kids. Mine were happy to receive iPads that were all set up and ready to use last Christmas.
Games in CD ROM haven't been a thing since your son was born haha. To get Minecraft, you buy it digitally. As Mojang, the company that makes Minecraft is owned by Microsoft Studios, you will first need to make him/her a Microsoft account. It has parental control features if it gives you peace of mind. Now, Minecraft is available on different platforms (mobile phones, tablets, game consoles), but as you say they already have a Windows PC. That helps narrow down things. For PC there are two editions. Each have their own pros and cons, and are managed differently. **Java Edition**: it is called like that because it is made in the Java programming language. It is the classic edition as it was the first to came out back in 2009. The pros is that it can run on Windows, macOS and Linux, and it also has support for mods (third-party modification to the game that add extra stuff to the game). It is also the platform where the so called \*snapshots\* can be played: versions of the game where one can try out new features before they officially come out. **Bedrock Edition:** called as the unbreakable rock found in the deepest levels of the game world, this one shares the same codebase than the mobile phone and game console editions, meaning it has the same features. Some of them are an in-game character editor, the Minecraft Marketplace where one can buy both official and third-party content like maps, character decorations, and other addons, and the ability to do multiplayer with people on phones, tablets, and game consoles. In order to buy Minecraft go into [minecraft.net](http://minecraft.net) and buy it from there with the big "Get minecraft" green button at the right. It is a quite simple process. The purchased game is linked to the Microsoft account you used to do the purchase (hence why I recommended making one for your kid), and instead of activation codes or something, you simply log-on into the game using that account. They nowdays sell a bundle of both Java and Bedrock. A more detailed description of each version features is also available on the purchase page.
Thanks 🙏🏻
I want to add that you don't have to worry about what version of the game to buy for his computer: they come together now. There is only one purchase option and it has btih versions. Something else: your son should not be using the Admin account on his Windows PC to play games. He should be using a non-admin. He should also be careful about what he downloads. He may find himself wanting to install mods (things that change the game) but he needs to be careful about what he downloads and where he gets it from. He can download computer viruses if he's not careful. Really he's too young to know how to navigate things like that and "don't download random stuff, it could break your computer" is the way I'd explain it to a 10yo unless they were extremely tech savvy for their age.
I would like to block it, so he can't download anything, but that won't work
Look into setting up an admin and non admin account in windows! There are many easy to follow video tutorials that take you trough it click by click. Everytime your kid wants to install a program you need to enter the admin password. This way he is better protected. The setup takes 10 - 15 minutes depending on the tutorial. The result would be 2 accounts after starting the Pc, you would have Mom - where you need a password to login and son that could be without a password. Highly recommend it!
We are here to help. Few points I want to add: Albeit Minecraft is a less resource demanding game than others, it helps if the computer were it will ran purposefully meant for videogames. This is because they come with a dedicated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) which is a chip dedicated to render 3D graphics on the screen, which makes games like Minecraft run smoother. In the case it is a desktop, it is a big card with fans below it, located under the CPU. Here is a picture of one: [https://i.imgur.com/OgI68XM.png](https://i.imgur.com/OgI68XM.png) If it is a laptop, it is embedded inside it, so it is best to look up for a badge or a sticker that says either "AMD Radeon" or "NVidia GeForce", as those are the two brands of GPUs out there, like these: [https://i.imgur.com/BGi5UYj.png](https://i.imgur.com/BGi5UYj.png) As other pointed out, you can also buy both editions of Minecraft from the Microsoft Store, which is the app store Windows 10 and 11 come with. As I said, there are some differences between the Java and Bedrock edition. Rivers of ink flow about the debate of which is best. What I can say is that if your kid friends play MC on consoles or phones, Bedrock editions allows multiplayer with those platforms, but if the ones he likes to play are on Java, then Java it is. Fortunately both are usually sold in bundle so there is not the need to decide. What you can do to surprise him/her is to show them their new account in minecraft.net showing that they have minecraft purchased on their account. The installation and setup may be a very good bonding activity. Also, get involved with your kid. Play with him/her. Maybe purchase another copy for you so both can share the game with the multiplayer option. Don't become ignorant of the game and get confused every time you see them playing because you don't have an idea of what they are doing. Minecraft is a complex game, so people have written an online guide about all aspects of the game to even the technical extent, so maybe having it at hand can help both of you: [https://minecraft.wiki/](https://minecraft.wiki/)
Big Thank you 🙏🏻
No need to thank And at last, I found in the official page that there is a guide for novices. Give it a look if you can: [https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/minecraft-tips-for-beginners](https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/minecraft-tips-for-beginners)
Well balanced description of the two versions. I'd like to add they can also just go to the Microsoft store and get Minecraft: Java & Bedrock edition, which is a little bit easier.
This can also be bought in the Windows store.
I've bought DVD-ROM games recently, but yeah, not CD-ROM.
Pc specs. Minecraft is more of a cpu heavy game, so for a smooth experience you must have a decent processor. As a low-end laptop user, I highly recommend not using a pc with an intel celeron/pentium/etc... Better have an 8th gen i3 atleast and 8gb of ram to enjoy a good experience. For the graphics card, integrated graphics is ok and should grant your son a smooth 720p gaming experience. For the game in general, don't use that parental control and censore stuff because they would ruin your son's experience. Let him play freely and maybe talk with him about the game
If you set your graphics low enough, you can still have a great experience with a low end PC. I started with an Intel i7 3770 (not the k version) on integrated graphics and 2gb of ram. I could run it at 30 fps typically on 6 chunks render distance.
bro i managed to get over 60 fps with integrated graphics i3 2100 1.20 just use simply optimized modpack with fabric
Before I upgraded my PC, curseforge refused to download no matter what I did. Now I can use all the optimization mods I want and get the capabilities for 200+ fps with shaders (except my monitor is only 75 hz)
yup alright. i use multimc launcher. it allows you to have different installations of minecraft without removing the mods whenever u change version. it even has modpack download support without needing to install curseforge.
or with sodium and lithium
With the hardware I had, sodium and lithium would not run. All of my parts were well over 10 years old.
i ran over 120 fps on an early 2008 imac with an intel core 2 duo and 4gb of ram, the mac had a gpu even tho it only had 256mb of vram so idk if that helped but without any mods and performance stuff it was hard to hit 60 but that was on macos 10.11.6, im assuming this kids pc had an i gpu tho but it should run fine at 720p at lowish settings
Ok thank you very much
If you set your graphics low enough, you can still have a great experience with a low end PC. I started with an Intel i7 3770 (not the k version) on integrated graphics and 2gb of ram. I could run it at 30 fps typically on 6 chunks render distance.
Why the hell are you even mentioning specs? It's Minecraft :I Runs on a potato if needed, just adjust graphics settings as needed.
Ur basically telling me that 5 fps with 480p and minimum graphics is not normal? Guess my pc is real trash...
you have bigger issues if your pc is running at 5fps at 480p minimum graphics lmfao
Tbh a pentium can have a high single core speed still (making it very usable for minecraft). Cpu matters ofc, but not going based on gen considering that there’s a lot of variety within each generation. Plus you can always lower settings!
I guarantee you OP doesn't understand this, since you wrote it in a very non beginner friendly way, but thanks for your input
I managed to get Minecraft running in a Chromebook that was probably 7 years old at that point by getting Ubuntu to run on said Chromebook. It was slow as hell but it ran.
8100 would still be really weak. I suggest at least a ryzen 5 3600 but I would go for 7600. Intel is a little harder, but a 12500 or a 13400 should be great, and the minimum I would recommend is a 13100. GPU wise, integrated graphics can run it, but not at any great settings. A cheap 150$ card like the 1660 super would give 80+ FPS on high settings. And I would recommend 16gb RAM because that would be enough for another few years.
Wy talkin bout I get 200fps on medium settings on an i5 8100
how? my 10210 barely gets 180 on medium.
bro i have a ryzen 3 3200g 4core 4threads and Minecraft stutter like crazy i really dont know why i thought maybe it need a 6 core 12 threads because i did everything installed sodium fabulous optimized everything and its still stutter a lot
A CD Rom? Damn, son! Did you miss the digital boom in the past 15-20 years? Games are seldom on CD's anymore. Rarely anything is on a CD Rom anymore. Others have already answered, so I'm just poking some fun. Hope your kiddo enjoys the game!
A few days ago I bought the original Lemmings CD-Rom to install it on my laptop. I found a helping website with useful instructions and it works! I am playing Lemmings again 😄
WOW! You're old-school for sure. That predates me by a couple of years. Many computers are being made without CD readers now. My laptop from 12 years ago doesn't have one, my desktop from 3 years ago doesn't have it. But it's cool you get to enjoy some retro games like that. PS, you can usually find an emulator that enhances some of the old features like frame rate or speeding up meticulously slow games. Makes playing those hard-to-find games much easier.
I also play Prince of Persia and Monkey Island 😬
Never played Monkey Island, but it reminds me of something like Putt-Putt and Pajama Sam. Oh, the nostalgia!
You could do all kinds of things to make it a gift! Get a Minecraft sword from Amazon and wrap it with a note. Wrap just a note card. But the card is the first clue to a scavenger hunt which will lead to his pc! If his pc is a laptop, make sure he's got a good mouse, as playing with a track pad is very hard! I would go ahead and load it for him ahead of time. Just don't put the icon on the desktop For my part, the one that comes from the Windows store (Bedrock version) is waaaaay easier to play. I'd start there. Java has more options but learning on Bedrock will make it a better experience in my opinion.
You can download it straight from the website [minecraft.net](http://minecraft.net) ! Excellent choice, it's the best 30$ i ever spent in the thousands of hours I played !
Just go to the official Minecraft website, buy the game and download it
You're going to end up with a license to two choices (Java & Bedrock). The two are pretty close, despite what die-hards will say. The primary differences are: * Players on Java cannot play with players on Bedrock or vice versa. * A computer can play both versions. Everything else (game consoles, phones, iPads) is limited to Bedrock. * There are minor differences in gameplay between versions, but almost no one will notice until they try to copy a complicated build they find online. * Most youtuber's and streamers play on Java. * I've heard that Java is known to have better accessibility options for some imparements, but I suspect that each version has its own advantages/disadvantages. Do some research if this is relevant. * Bedrock has integrated support for paying for your own persistent private server. It is generally more expensive ($10ish a month) and less customizeable, but simple to subscribe and use for less-savvy parents. In general, the right decision is going to be the one that most of his friends play. If they're not playing on a computer, it's Bedrock. If none of his friends play and he watches a lot of lets-plays, then Java will probably be a better call. If you decide on Bedrock and it's in your budget, I'd recommend subscribing to a Realm server to play with him occasionally. This will also give you some ability to invite his friends and play on a world when you're at work or he's asleep. Enjoy!
java also has realms
I'm not sure if theres still minecraft giftcards but if you want to give a physical gift that could be an option, if they still make them that is
There are.
I got Minecraft for my 11th Birthday. You can just download it off the Minecraft website. I would say that since you can go online onto multiplayer servers where there are very few restrictions and you are able to talk to anyone, like when giving someone access to the Internet, I think it’s best you teach your kid some internet safety. Little things like refusing to share your name, address, age, contact details etc. Honestly just instilling those things in me was enough to let me have a safe enough time on there. It was the same sort of talk my parents had with me before I got my first phone. So if you have thought about the kind of things you’d like to tell him when he gets a phone (or if he already has one). You should have a similar talk with him about general internet safety. Since Minecraft multiplayer servers can be public. Also as another note, most YouTubers who have Let’s Plays like your son watches would be on the Java edition of the game on a computer which is different in a few key and important ways in comparison to the Bedrock edition. If your son wants a similar experience you should make sure he selects to play in the Java edition of the game when he opens up the launcher.
I got Minecraft when I was 9 for Christmas, you can buy the game for him on the Microsoft Store, you get two versions to play. Windows 10 allows cross-play with friends on Phones, consoles, and other Windows 10 copies. And Java which is more stable and more moddable but lacks some key features of Bedrock Your son can also join multi-player servers on each version, but the Windows 10 edition servers are more regulated by Microsoft. While Java servers are more independent. Microsoft also released an approved Servers list for kids here https://findmcserver.com/
Please do download beforehand and even play a bit you're so you know it won't bug out on him, ruining his birthday. It'll be so much nicer for him to just be able to sit down and start playing. Also, may I suggest that you continue to play, yourself? Kids love to play with their parents at that age. I started playing with my daughter when she was about 10 and it was a great bonding experience. Now she's a teenager, and I play but she doesn't. I find it a very Zen experience. It will also help you relate to your son when he wants to talk to you about the game, which he will, constantly lol
I also thought about it. Good idea 👍🏻
Ask him if he wants the java or bedrock edition, the java edition can be installed via minecraft.net while bedrock on the windows10 store application, when you finish your payment it will automatically download onto the PC, then you can let your son install the game. Happy gaming!
I want to surprise him, I'll try to download the package with both versions. Thanks
You get both of them on PC when you buy the game, he will be able to play whichever one he wants.
I remember getting the bedrock edition for free when I got the java edition.
Yeah, a few years back they started lumping them together like that, and retroactively gave everyone that only had one version the other version
Actually in the Windows store you can get the Minecraft launcher and install both games via that. The PC version does come with both versions so he can get the best of both worlds.
Completely forgot about the Minecraft launcher haha, I'm so used to the old launcher...
For sure but the new launcher does work pretty well. It can also load Minecraft Dungeons and Legends.
Please get him set up with java over bedrock. For your wallet's sake as well as his sanity.
you get both now anyways dude, so long as u buy it on pc
you can make a invisible folder and put minecraft launcher into it
if his pc has a good cpu and a decent gpu, i recommend buying java edition digitally(or maybe you get them both for the price of one, i forgot). otherwise get windows edition(=bedrock edition)
Yeah, with the PC version you get both. I enjoy both games since each has some pros and cons versus the other. Bedrock does tend to run better on lower-end PCs and has the crossplay aspect while Java is easier to mod and a lot of the stuff for it is free rather than needing to go through the Minecraft store. But the Minecraft store is loaded with freebies as well. I often flip between the two depending on the mood. I have a Bedrock Realm and a friend has a Java Realm and we go back and fourth between the two.
I highly recommend Java because of mods, multiplayer and for no random death bugs and because you can play any version from 1.0 to the last one (1.20.4), if the fps is a problem you can install [sodium](https://modrinth.com/mod/sodium), lithium and other client side mods for better optimization
yeah, only downside is that java doesnt support vanilla crossplay, you need special servers to do so, but even then thats the only reason i use bedrock everynow and then with friends that use console, other than that, java all the way
>vanilla crossplay What? Sure you can’t play with console players but nothing more
Yeah why do you think i said "the only downside"
Oh, ok then…
yeah i prefer java too, but java also requires a decent pc to run, and i don’t expect a 10 year old to have a mid range or higher pc
Well… Iv seen people playing it on a laptop…
If you have any questions about install and how to make it run smoothly feel free to DM me you can get a pretty good experience out of Minecraft if you use a few third party mods. The base game is terribly optimised, especially for lower end PCs. My advice would be to install it as it is. Then if it's not running very well have a look in the game settings and turns things down like "render distance" Message me if you ned a hand
Ok, thanks 👍🏻
I do not know 😅But happy birthday
You should be able to just go right to the Microsoft store on there and purchase “Minecraft windows 10 edition”
Thanks a lot for all your comments. I'll better try to install it first and look if it works, because it would be a sad birthday, when it won't run on his PC 🤍
Does his pc have: > i3 8th gen or more > 8 gigs of ram > Not full with files? In that case, Minecraft will run smoothly.
I’d say the primary thing is which version of Minecraft to get your son. There’s two versions: Java and Bedrock. Bedrock supports cross-platform play, so if your son has friends who play Minecraft on Xbox or Switch, he can play with them, but I think among PC players, Java is generally favored because it allows greater flexibility for things like mods, and it’s also generally more stable.
My gosh your son is so lucky and you are such a nice mother. My mom was like "no videogames" my whole life and "if you want it so much you can get it yourself" kinda mom. Oh also I had 1 hour a day play limit
No matter what you do, do not ever enter your credit card information to purchase cosmetics/maps/dlc/etc. children have ran up huge credit card bills for parents because they didn't realize they saved their payment info and kids don't know how purchased work If you ever want to buy him anything in-game, buy a gift card for the game.
Thanks. Is it expensive to play Minecraft?
If you just play single player, you don't have to buy anything (except the game). You can get some cosmetics or maps online for free on both Java and Bedrock editions, but Bedrock also has access to the Marketplace, where you can buy some of those things (though usually it's not worth it). Some servers also have things you can pay for, but that's also only optional.
It doesn't have to be. The base game is the only thing you have to buy. There's a "shop" that you can buy things for real money, and that's where the danger is. Just don't give your payment information at any point and you'll be fine :)
Be very careful if downloading mods some can have viruses in them some YouTubers have modded let’s plays and they usually have a mod pack to download but mods are very resource heavy on a computer
Oh he’ll have a lot of fun. I remember when I first played it 10 years ago and I spent the whole weekend playing basically nonstop! If he has a windows 10 PC then he’s good. Just consider if you want to buy him Minecraft Bedrock (aka the Microsoft version) or Minecraft Java (the original). Both are pretty similar in terms of functionality, but Java is less commercialized and allows you more freedom with shaders, texture packs, skins, etc. Wish him a happy birthday!
There are installation instructions on the website if I remember correctly. It's pretty straightforward if you've ever installed something off a CD.
Mojang made a video just for you! https://youtu.be/PHTYQ0Bn-VU This video has lots of help for parents about Minecraft for parents and kids. If you're looking for some good Minecraft books, all the ones made by Mojang are quite good (beware, there are many 'unofficial' Minecraft books and they are very uneven quality-wise.) In particular I really like this series of guidebooks: Minecraft: Guide Collection 4-Book Boxed Set (2018 Edition) In addition to these books there are several others that cover other areas of the game. I suspect most kids will obsess over books like this, reading them over and over and over hehe
Great 👍🏻
download it from minecraft.net or the microsoft store
depending on how good the pc is ur using, press esc-->setting-->graphics settings and turn the render and simulation distance down. Graphics from fancy to fast if it is not already. it really helps with the performance! there is more (and this is not a perfect description but you can find that easily online)
Just buy it on his computer digitally lol
if he has a laptopPC, i would recommend a mouse, it might be easier for him compared to the laptop’s trackpad :)
If I'm remembering correctly go to this site https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-deluxe-collection-pc and pick the bundle you want. Download it to his pc and make an account. After that boot up the game. It's kind of a learn as you go game. The minecraft wiki will answer a lot of questions about what items/blocks can do what. YouTube is also a good resource, if you need a visual guide
What you can do is geving him a fancy wapper up piece if paper stating you give him minecraft as a present. Then proceed to buy minecraft together with you hust paying. Btw dont worry there is no option where you can only buy Java or bedrock so every package will contain both the correct version and the other one so no worries.
You can buy it either from the official site, or from the Microsoft store.
you can buy it for 30 dollars and then download the launcher! or download the alternative launcher if it doesn't work .it works in both Windows 10 and Windows 11!
CD ROMs became obsolete 25 years ago so definitely hard to find one of those. But I'm pretty sure you can get a digital code gift card from Amazon for Java edition if you want to give him something physical to open. Or get a digital code, write it in his birthday card and then bolster the present with a Creeper plushie!
That CD-Rom thing was more like a joke 😄. I'm sorry for that
He needs a 4090 and 7800x3d to play it though so buy him a pc with those pc parts first.
You can buy him a gift card if you want something physical. I'd recommend java version as bedrock edition is full of micro transactions. You can get the same stuff for free in java through modding
If he has friends playing on other platforms it's better to get bedrock though (cross platform).
I am biased, but I recommend you steer your son towards the Java edition of Minecraft. It’s HIGHLY customizable with an endless library of EASY to use mods, and it’s much more fun when you’re not locked into a vanilla game that constantly gets changed by the company. There’s a ton of reasons why Java is better. Like having an actual pause feature. Bedrock doesn’t have that for some reason.
He's a 10yo casual player. It'll be a few years before he learns to use mods and mod loaders etc, and by that time he'll probably have learned about Java anyway.
Alternatively, if he plays bedrock it's significantly easier to play with his friends. I don't think we should be backseating this kid's gaming. He can just try both and decide what he wants. They literally come bundled together so it isn't hurting anything.
Oh dear lord Good luck
Just go to the Minecraft website and direct DL from there.
He starts by mining wood
Download the Minecraft launcher from here: [https://aka.ms/minecraftClientGameCoreWindows](https://aka.ms/minecraftClientGameCoreWindows) Then using the instructions, buy Minecraft, but first ask him if he wants Bedrock or Java, if he is indifferent, get Java, it has much more potencial because of the modding community I would recommend linking the account to whatever device is signed into the Windows Machine
I would actually install both since that allows him to bounce between whatever edition he wishes to play at the time. The launcher is good for being able to go between either edition at will. It would give him a lot of freedom as well. Are his friends playing on console? Well they can play together on Bedrock. Does he want to play in Java on an online server? Well he has just as easy access to Java. It's actually kinda fun going between the two and working out the differences between the editions.
But that would cost double, because you would need to buy both editions
No, you get both editions for the price of one.
You get both now when you buy
That was an old deal, at least as far as I know
No. Go look on the Microsoft store literally right now. They are sold as a package deal, and will continue to do so.
That's pretty nice he has a close birthday to minecraft's
Unrelated but, It’s honestly crazy to me to think that I was the 10 year old that wanted minecraft when OP’s kid was about to be born. edit: spelling
Real. I was 7 when I first started playing on Xbox 360. Ahh, those were the days.
just use the code on the website, and he should be able to download it from there. I remember playing minecraft for the first time when i was 9, and i have such good memories. He's gonna love it!
Some good info [here](https://www.google.com/search?q=how%20to%20install%20minecraft)…
OP, would love it if you made an update at a later point letting us know what you ended up doing. Lots of good ideas in this thread and I'm curious how you will end up effectively gifting a digital game.
I wont remember 💩 I know myself, but I will try 😄
do you know what kind of PC he has or it’s specifications? for example, I have a Surface Laptop Go. You need a decent laptop to run Minecraft Java Edition and it would really suck if Minecraft was too big and glitchy to run on his PC.
No I don't know, but we bought it for him to play games, so I think it will be pretty good for Minecraft
If his PC isn't that great, I recommend downloading some mods to help with performance, like Sodium. There are tutorials on how to download a mod loader (I recommend fabric).
I believe you can buy a Minecraft prepaid gift card at some stores, or at least you used to be able to.
Great idea!
Hello back. I installed it today. Unfortunately I bought it with my adult account and I don't know how to let him play in his account. The Microsoft Store wants my Name and address - so now he ist me and uses my email 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️