Minecraft Java Edition has always operated pretty much as-is following developer Mojang's acquisition by Microsoft. Bedrock Edition came along to integrate with the Microsoft account system, but Java has been on its own little Mojang account island - until now. Java Edition will soon require you to have a Microsoft account to play. However, you'll receive a free cape.
In the early 2021s in the early 2021, you'll be required to move your Java or Mojang account to the Microsoft account system. Mojang states that this is to introduce two-factor authentication in order to provide increased security, though it'll also bring better parental controls, chat and invitation blocking, and account integration between Minecraft and Minecraft Dungeons.
Regarding Minecraft mods and PvP Mojang affirms that nothing will change. Java and Bedrock will remain completely separate games. You'll continue to be able to play using your in-game Java username, though when you sign up for a Microsoft account for the first time, you might have to swap account names. You can join your Minecraft sign-ins if you already have an existing Microsoft account.
Mojang is offering the cape, which was once the most exclusive Java Edition item: to facilitate the transition. Participating in the migration will give you a free cape. Although Minecraft server list doesn't come with the Minecon exclusive patterns, it will let everyone feel a bit royal.
Although nothing immediate is changing, players do have some concerns - notably, that Microsoft's more stipulations of service could cause bans to become more frequent, locking certain players out of accessing Minecraft.
Further details can be found in the official announcement and FAQ. We'll see how it shakes out in the first quarter of 2021.
Log in to comment