How to play Minecraft for free at home, legally

Minecraft classic browser version block menu
(Image credit: Mojang)

Playing Minecraft for free is very simple with the easily accessible browser version of the blocky, building game, with no downloads or payments needed. Obviously there are some serious compromises here if you've kept with the current Bedrock and Java Editions. This free Minecraft game is based on Minecraft Classic, which uses creative mode only and has a mere 32 block types - I hope you like dirt, stone, and wood. Regardless, it's certainly better than nothing and serves as a decent demo for the full game and might satisfy some people's desire to destroy and place blocks for a while. Here's exactly how you can play Minecraft for free.

Playing Minecraft for free explained

Players can enjoy Minecraft for free at this link right here, which is an in-browser form of Minecraft Classic that's far more limited than any current paid model.

Minecraft classic browser version world generation screen

(Image credit: Mojang)
Best Minecraft Mods

Minecraft best mods optifine

(Image credit: Microsoft/sp614x)

If you've got the Java version of the game, try some of the best Minecraft mods listed here!

Specifically, this version of the game has only creative mode from Minecraft Classic, with none of the comparatively modern additions like mobs and survival mechanics - you're essentially in a time machine back to 2009. There are only 32 different types of blocks (with most of them being dyed wool), all the original bugs are in there, although you can build as much as you want. It even has multiplayer with other browser players - just send your session's URL to up to nine other players.

However the major downside to consider is that you can't save the game! Any progress, creations, or discoveries you make in this browser version of Minecraft are lost when you close the game, and there's no way to get them back. Keep that in mind and don't get too invested in what you build!

Still, this free version of the game isn't without its charms and could potentially work as a demo for those who are considering a full purchase, want something for their kids to enjoy on a rainy day, or who just don't have the money to burn on games right now. 

If you want more Minecraft, here’s some other games like Minecraft to try out, or watch the video below for some top Minecraft facts.

Minecraft cheats | Best Minecraft servers | Minecraft Realms | Best Minecraft seeds | Best Minecraft shaders | Best Minecraft skins | Best Minecraft texture packs | Play Minecraft for free | Minecraft Forge

Leon Hurley
Managing editor for guides

I'm GamesRadar's Managing Editor for guides, which means I run GamesRadar's guides and tips content. I also write reviews, previews and features, largely about horror, action adventure, FPS and open world games. I previously worked on Kotaku, and the Official PlayStation Magazine and website. 

With contributions from