Back in 2019, Microsoft launched Minecraft Earth. For those who are unfamiliar, Minecraft Earth is basically the augmented reality version of Minecraft, where users can create Minecraft worlds in their backyard using augmented reality. It seemed like a pretty fun idea and good use of the technology.However, fast forward a little over a year later, it seems that the company has decided that it isn’t working out anymore and have announced that on the 30th of June, 2021, they will be shutting Minecraft Earth down. The company says that the idea was for gamers to be able to play Minecraft in the real world, but given the pandemic, that isn’t quite as possible anymore.
According to Microsoft, “Minecraft Earth was designed around free movement and collaborative play – two things that have become near impossible in the current global situation. As a result, we have made the difficult decision to re-allocate our resources to other areas that provide value to the Minecraft community and to end support for Minecraft Earth in June 2021.”
The company has also announced that ahead of the game’s shutdown, they will be releasing one final update. This update has been designed to make the game “as fun as possible”, which includes removing microtransactions, reducing ruby costs, reducing time requirements, and more. Basically, Microsoft wants gamers to just go wild on the game and enjoy it to its fullest extent.
Microsoft adds, “We’re eternally grateful for the amazing talent in the Minecraft community. This was not an easy decision, and we’re doing everything we can to make sure you get the most out of Minecraft Earth before it sunsets.”
Filed in . Read more about Microsoft and Minecraft. Source: minecraft.net