Microsoft Pulls the Plug on VR Support for Minecraft
In a significant shift for the gaming landscape, Microsoft has officially discontinued support for virtual reality (VR) and Mixed Reality (MR) in its popular sandbox game, Minecraft. The recent update to the Bedrock Edition, version 1.21.80, marks the end of an era where players could immerse themselves in the vast Overworld through a VR headset. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy, as Microsoft has been gradually phasing out its own MR technology for some time.
While Minecraft continues to thrive across various consoles and platforms, the absence of VR support is a notable change. However, players seeking to maintain their virtual adventures can still turn to Vivecraft, a mod that allows Minecraft to be played on Oculus or Windows MR devices. It’s important to note that this option requires the original PC Java version of the game, which may limit accessibility for some users.
Microsoft had previously hinted at this transition during an update last October, stating, “Our ability to support VR/MR devices has come to an end, and will no longer be supported in updates after March of 2025.” The company reassured players that they would still receive updates for the non-VR version of the game and retain access to their Marketplace purchases, including Minecoins.
As of now, the grace period has concluded, leaving many to ponder the implications of this decision. The move signifies a broader trend in the gaming industry, where the metaverse concept faces increasing scrutiny and challenges. For those who experienced the immersive potential of Minecraft in VR, this marks a bittersweet farewell to a unique gaming experience.
