In Minecraft Java Edition, players can either jump into a world on their own and explore it, or they can join their friends in a multiplayer world and play together.

Java Edition players have their own version of Realms and can play with other Java players. Bedrock Edition is a better option when it comes to players looking for crossplay in Realms.

Discover various ways to enjoy Minecraft multiplayer with friends, from local LAN play to online servers and Mojang-hosted Minecraft Realms. Explore different setups like free server hosting with ...

For those using Minecraft’s Java Edition, you’ll need to purchase a Realm from the Minecraft website. Keep in mind that Bedrock Edition players cannot play on the same servers as Java players.

Microsoft has announced a free three-month subscription to the cloud-based service, Minecraft Realms Plus is now available as a limited-timed Perk for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate users.

If you missed your chance the first time around, Mojang has allowed more players to redeem their free copy of Minecraft on Windows 10 if they already own the Java Edition.

"Minecraft" offers cross-platform play for both versions of the game — Bedrock and Java — but you can only play with users who own the same version.