Minecraft (franchise)
Minecraft is a sandbox video game franchise created by Swedish game developer Markus "Notch" Persson and later developed and published by Mojang Studios, which is now part of Microsoft. Characterized by its blocky, procedurally generated 3D world, Minecraft allows players to explore, craft, build, and fight creatures within a variety of game modes.
The core game, often referred to as simply "Minecraft," centers around creative freedom and survival. Players mine and gather resources like wood, stone, and ores, which are then used to craft tools, build structures, and defend against nocturnal monsters. The game offers multiple perspectives, allowing players to switch between first-person and third-person views.
Minecraft's gameplay is largely driven by emergent behavior, meaning that much of the game's experience is dictated by player choices and interactions within the world. There is no enforced narrative or linear progression, allowing players to set their own goals.
The franchise has expanded beyond the original game to include various spin-offs, such as:
- Minecraft: Story Mode: An episodic narrative adventure game developed by Telltale Games in collaboration with Mojang Studios.
- Minecraft Dungeons: A dungeon crawler game set in the Minecraft universe.
- Minecraft Earth: An augmented reality mobile game.
- Minecraft Legends: An action strategy game where players defend the Overworld from a Piglin invasion.
Minecraft is notable for its global popularity, large and active community, and its widespread use in educational settings. It has been praised for its creativity-inspiring gameplay, replayability, and contribution to the video game industry. The franchise has also spawned countless modifications (mods) and custom content created by the player community, further extending its lifespan and appeal. The continuous updates and expansions, along with the accessibility and open-ended nature of the gameplay, contribute to Minecraft's enduring success as a major entertainment property.