As expected, Minecraft this week launched in VR, and is available now to Oculus Rift owners.
Microsoft on Monday released a free update to Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta to enable gameplay using the virtual reality headsets.
"We'd like to welcome you to the game all over again, because it's a fantastic new experience in VR, even if you're a Minecraft veteran," developer Mike McGrath wrote in a blog post. "For new and experienced players, we hope the VR experience in Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta will illuminate just how powerful, evocative, and utterly immersive VR can be."
Promising a "comfortable, engaging" experience, Redmond has optimized the Windows 10 DX11 performance, and added new features like support for keyboard and mouse, various Xbox One control options, and new render distance settings "that will put your powerful VR graphics card [to] good use," McGrath said.
Minecraft maker Mojang last month confirmed plans to enable support for the Rift, giving players "a whole new perspective on their favorite game."
Those who own Minecraft Windows 10 Edition and an Oculus Rift can jump right into the title; just log into your Mojang account and click the "redeem" button for free access. The Rift version promises familiar features like multiplayer, Creative, and Survival game modes.
Minecraft in June reached a huge milestone, counting 100 million copies sold, boasting approximately 53,000 sales per day. Late July, meanwhile, marked the first anniversary of Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta. In its first 365 days, Minecraft and Mojang reported more than 12,000 code check-ins, 6,000-plus squashed bugs, and 15 updates with dozens of new features.
Despite device delays, US consumers are now enjoying virtual worlds in the comfort of their homes. And soon, European and Canadian players can, too: Oculus today announced new Rift launches on Sept. 20.
Available now to pre-order for £549 in the UK via Amazon and at brick-and-mortar John Lewis, Curry's PCWorld, Game, and Harrods stores, the Rift will also sell for €699 at FNAC (France), Media Markt and Saturn (Germany), and Best Buy (Canada). Also look for it online from Amazon.fr, Amazon.de, and the Microsoft Store Online.