Why We Bought Minecraft

I have to admit that I just don’t understand the fascination with Minecraft.  My kids absolutely love the game but it just doesn’t make sense how a game that is filled with creatures called kreepers, zombies, skelebros and spiders can be that exciting.  And have you seen the graphics?  My kids love to poke fun at my generation for enjoying the original Atari games, but Minecraft graphics are very basic – definitely not high definition.  They have been asking for us to purchase the full version of the game, but we finally broke down and paid for the Minecraft app for our mobile device. There are several reasons why we bought Minecraft.

Why We Bought Minecraft

I asked my Kids why they love Minecraft. Here are their responses:

• Minecraft is a fun way to use your imagination by building things with only blocks.  Even the character is made out of blocks.  It makes your imagination wonder what objects look like when made out of blocks.
• You build whatever you want to build.  There are no rules.  But there are items you need to complete building each item.  A crafting table will let you craft weapons, armor, and more.
• There are animals found in all areas of Minecraft –  Including cows, pigs and chickens.  There are more in Minecraft computer and Xbox but not as many on the ipod version.

• On some versions of Minecraft, you can download mods which make your game different for good or bad.  There are several different mods for each theme:  Star Wars,  Pokemon, Mario are several of the items on my kids wish list.  The mods are free but you have to purchase the Minecraft download online.  The mods are not available on ipod or xbox.  
• Skins allow your character to look different.  It depends on who or what you want to like.  There are medieval skins, Star Wars and many more.  You can also create skin packs.  There are some skin packs that are free, but not all.
• You can connect your Minecraft experience with other users depending on your device.  My kids are able to all interact on the same game when they use the mobile phones and ipad.

Minecraft is a game about breaking and placing blocks. At first, people built structures to protect against nocturnal monsters, but as the game grew players worked together to create wonderful, imaginative things.

It can also be about adventuring with friends or watching the sun rise over a blocky ocean. It’s pretty. Brave players battle terrible things in The Nether, which is more scary than pretty. You can also visit a land of mushrooms if it sounds more like your cup of tea.
You can read instructions on how to play Minecraft here.

Purchase Minecraft

You can buy Minecraft Pocket Edition for any ipad or iphone here – $6.99

Play the free demo online here or buy the full edition for $26.95.

Do your kids play Minecraft? Do you let them play the free demo or have you purchased the full version? I’d love to hear from you!

I did not receive any compensation or discounts for this review. I just know my kids love to play even if I can’t figure it out myself.