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Microsoft has confirmed that there will be no new Xbox Series X/S version of Minecraft in the near future, disappointing fans who were hoping to upgrade to the console version. Game ratings in Germany and the US fueled speculation about a Minecraft Xbox Series X/S update, but Microsoft clarified that these ratings do not represent new releases. The release of the Xbox Series X/S version of Minecraft would be a big announcement for Microsoft, given the game’s massive popularity, but its timing remains uncertain. After some exciting rumors started circulating about a potential Xbox Series X/S version of Minecraft, Microsoft stepped in and delivered an unfortunate update. Mojang and its Microsoft partners are working hard to bring Minecraft to as many platforms as possible. The popular survival adventure game is not only available to play on Microsoft platforms, but also on PlayStation, Nintendo, and mobile devices. For some reason, however, Minecraft doesn’t have an Xbox Series X/S version yet, and that doesn’t appear to be changing in the near future.
Rumors about an Xbox Series X/S update for Minecraft began circulating in August, and there’s some very reasonable evidence to back them up. The rating for Minecraft on Xbox Series X/S appears not only in Germany, but also in the United States via the ESRB. An official announcement from Mojang or Microsoft was speculated but never materialized. Still, given the excitement over the console upgrade for Minecraft on Xbox Series X/S, fans continue to demand updates from Microsoft.
Microsoft has now released an update, but unfortunately, it only contains bad news for Minecraft fans. In a statement to Eurogamer, Microsoft made it clear that a new version of Minecraft will not be released in the “near future.” It is claimed that the US and German ratings “do not represent” new versions of Minecraft, but are merely the result of regular rating reviews and updates by different regional boards.
The statement was vague as to whether an Xbox Series X/S version of Minecraft is in development, which is of course intentional. No one would be surprised if Mojang and Microsoft were working on an updated version of Minecraft. It just won’t be coming anytime soon, and Microsoft wants to make sure fans have appropriate expectations.
Releasing an Xbox Series X/S version of Minecraft with improved performance and visuals would be a big announcement for Microsoft. There’s no denying that Minecraft is Microsoft’s most popular series right now and one of the most successful series ever. This is going to be a pretty big deal when it comes to Xbox Series X/S.
As for when Microsoft will release an Xbox Series X/S version of Minecraft, it’s hard to say yet. Growth in Xbox Series X/S sales and Game Pass subscriptions will make it a lucrative release, so it makes sense to release it as soon as possible. But given Minecraft’s popularity, Mojang may also want to polish updated versions of the game to perfection. While the launch of Minecon Live 2023 is great, 2024 or later might make more sense if Minecon Live 2023 does launch.
Minecraft is available now on PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One, and mobile devices.