Minecraft announces a significant expansion of its Bedrock version by introducing a marketplace for “add-ons” – essentially mods that players can apply to their existing or new worlds. This feature broadens the range of customization previously limited to the Java edition and extends it to the cross-platform Bedrock version. The new add-ons enable players to incorporate new blocks, mobs, items, and recipes into their games. As part of the launch, Mojang, the game’s developer, is offering a selection of add-ons for free.
New Era for Minecraft Bedrock Customization
Unlike earlier Bedrock add-ons tied to specific worlds, the new add-ons offer flexibility, allowing users to add and remove them from any world without constraints. This mirrors the modding capabilities available in the Java edition and includes multiplayer integration through Minecraft Realms. Confusion surrounding Minecraft naming conventions, like the term “Windows (Bedrock),” is not new, but the introduction of these add-ons marks a clear expansion of the Bedrock platform’s capabilities.
A Marketplace for Creativity and Convenience
The inaugural collection of add-ons in the marketplace showcases a variety of popular mod themes, such as craftable furniture, pets, computers, and even a Gravestone add-on that safeguards your inventory upon death. Mojang’s marketplace offers both free and paid content, purchasable with Minecoins. This system is a continuation of the marketplace’s existing model, where creators sell or give away Bedrock versions of texture packs, skins, and minigames.
Mojang assures users of the simplicity in installing these add-ons directly from the Minecraft Marketplace, making it more accessible than the modpacks installation process for the Java edition. This user-friendly approach aligns with Bedrock’s philosophy of a streamlined, “it just works” gaming experience.
In addition to the new marketplace add-ons, Mojang emphasizes the ongoing support for non-Marketplace mods, reassuring players that the ability to sideload mods from third-party websites or apps remains. The current add-on system is in a “snapshot” phase, intended for public feedback and further development.
The recent launch of add-ons within the Minecraft Marketplace heralds a new chapter for the Bedrock edition, fostering a vibrant community-driven ecosystem of content creation and customization.
