Xbox Game Pass is by far the easiest and most reliable way to play Minecraft without buying it outright. Both Minecraft Java Edition and Bedrock Edition are included with PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate — and new subscribers can often get their first month for just $1.

✅ Bottom line: Sign up for Xbox Game Pass PC ($11.99/month) or Game Pass Ultimate ($19.99/month), and you get instant access to Minecraft Java & Bedrock plus 400+ other games. First month is often $1.

What's Included with Game Pass?

When you subscribe to Xbox Game Pass, you get access to:

  • Minecraft: Java Edition — The classic PC version with full mod support
  • Minecraft: Bedrock Edition — Cross-platform version for Windows
  • Minecraft Dungeons — The dungeon-crawling action game
  • Minecraft Legends — The action-strategy spinoff
  • 400+ other games — Including AAA titles and indie gems
  • Day-one access to new Xbox Game Studios releases

That's essentially the entire Minecraft franchise in one subscription package.

How to Get Game Pass Minecraft

  1. Sign up for Game Pass: Go to xbox.com/game-pass and choose PC Game Pass ($11.99/month) or Game Pass Ultimate ($19.99/month). New users often see a $1 first-month offer.
  2. Download the Xbox app: Install the Xbox app on Windows from the Microsoft Store if you don't have it.
  3. Search for Minecraft: Open the Xbox app, search "Minecraft", and click Install on Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition.
  4. Launch via Minecraft Launcher: The Minecraft Launcher will automatically detect your Game Pass subscription and let you play both editions.

Game Pass Trial & Deals

Microsoft frequently offers promotional pricing for new Game Pass subscribers:

  • $1 first month — The most common deal. Check xbox.com for current availability.
  • 14-day free trial — Occasionally offered for brand new Microsoft accounts.
  • Microsoft Rewards — Earn enough points to pay for Game Pass entirely free (see our Rewards guide).
  • Retailer bundles — Buying a new Xbox or PC often comes with 1-3 months of Game Pass included.
  • Gift cards — Game Pass prepaid cards are frequently discounted on Amazon, Best Buy, etc.
💡 Pro tip: Stack multiple months of Xbox Live Gold (bought at discount), then convert to Game Pass Ultimate for $1. This can give you up to 3 years of Game Pass at a fraction of the regular price.

What Happens When Game Pass Expires?

This is the one catch: Minecraft access through Game Pass requires an active subscription. When your subscription ends:

  • You lose access to Minecraft (and other Game Pass games)
  • Your worlds and saves are preserved — they'll be there when you resubscribe
  • You can re-access everything instantly by renewing
  • If you want permanent ownership, you'll need to purchase the game separately

To own Minecraft permanently, you'll need to buy it from the Microsoft Store or win a code from our giveaway.

Which Game Pass Plan Should I Choose?

  • PC Game Pass ($11.99/month) — Best if you only play on PC. Includes Minecraft Java & Bedrock.
  • Game Pass Ultimate ($19.99/month) — Best if you play on PC AND Xbox/Cloud. Includes everything in PC Game Pass plus Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, and Cloud Gaming.
  • Game Pass Core ($9.99/month) — Xbox console only. Does NOT include Minecraft.
⚠️ Note: Game Pass Core does NOT include Minecraft. You need PC Game Pass or Game Pass Ultimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play Minecraft Java with Game Pass?

Yes! Both Java Edition and Bedrock Edition are included with PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate.

Do I keep Minecraft if I cancel Game Pass?

No. You need an active subscription to play. However, your saves and worlds are preserved if you resubscribe later.

Can I mod Minecraft Java on Game Pass?

Yes! The Game Pass version of Java Edition supports mods, resource packs, shaders, and custom servers just like the purchased version.

Skip the Subscription — Win Minecraft Free

We give away Java & Bedrock codes every week in our Discord. No subscription needed.

Join Our Discord