Top 11 Minecraft Alternatives to Play in 2025
Minecraft has captivated gamers worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. Yet, it might not have struck a chord with everyone, or perhaps you're craving more of that Minecraft magic. Fear not, because we've curated a list of the 11 best games that echo Minecraft's charm, ready for you to dive into right now!
Each game on this list captures a core element of Minecraft's gameplay. Whether you're in the mood for survival and building or simply want to immerse yourself in a relaxing crafting experience, there's a perfect match waiting for you. Here are the 11 best games like Minecraft:
Roblox
Image credit: Roblox Corporation | Developer: Roblox Corporation | Publisher: Roblox Corporation | Release Date: September 1, 2006 | Platforms: Windows, iOS, Android, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Meta Quest, Meta Quest Pro
Roblox stands out as a versatile game platform and creation system. While it doesn't offer the traditional crafting and survival of Minecraft out of the box, it allows you to craft your own game experiences or dive into those crafted by others. If the social and multiplayer aspects of Minecraft are what you cherish, Roblox is a fantastic alternative. The base game is free, but you'll need to purchase Robux for in-game enhancements and avatar accessories.
Slime Rancher 1 and 2
Image credit: Monomi Park | Developer: Monami Park | Publisher: Monami Park | Release Date: January 14, 2016/September 21, 2022 | Platforms (differ depending on game): Switch, PS4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, GeForce Now | Review: IGN's Slime Rancher 2 review
For fans of Minecraft's farming and cultivation elements, especially those who enjoy playing in Peaceful mode, Slime Rancher 1 and 2 are perfect picks. These RPGs let you build a farm focused on collecting and breeding adorable slimy creatures. With a dynamic in-game economy and puzzle-like slime combinations, you can lose hours to this charming indie title.
Satisfactory
Image credit: Coffee Stain | Developer: Coffee Stain | Publisher: Coffee Stain | Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Platforms: Windows | Review: IGN's Satisfactory review
Satisfactory is ideal for those who relish Minecraft's resource gathering and automation. It offers a more complex system for building factories and warehouses. Though it might be too intricate for fans of simpler gameplay, the satisfaction of creating an automated resource farm is just as rewarding as in Minecraft.
Terraria
Image credit: 505 Games | Developer: Re-Logic | Publisher: 505 Games | Release Date: May 16, 2011 | Platforms: PS4, PS3, PS Vita, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Switch, Wii U, 3DS, Windows, Stadia, Mobile | Review: IGN's Terraria review
Terraria is often compared to Minecraft, sharing many similarities despite being a 2D side-scroller. Each world offers endless possibilities, from digging to the depths of hell to building sky-high bases. With bosses to conquer, NPCs to recruit, and unique items and biomes to explore, Terraria beckons you to venture just a bit further.
Stardew Valley
Image credit: ConcernedApe | Developer: ConcernedApe | Publisher: ConcernedApe | Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Platforms: Windows, PS4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android | Review: IGN's Stardew Valley review
If you're after a more structured life-simulation experience with crafting and mining at its core, Stardew Valley is your go-to. You'll take on the role of a new homeowner in a quaint village, fostering relationships with locals, engaging in diverse activities, and rebuilding your home, either solo or with friends. It's not just a stellar choice for Nintendo Switch owners but also a top pick for mobile gaming on iPhones.
Don’t Starve
Image credit: Klei Entertainment | Developer: Klei Entertainment | Publisher: Klei Entertainment | Release Date: April 23, 2013 | Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, PS3/4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch | Review: IGN's Don't Starve review
For those drawn to the eerie survival elements of Minecraft, Don't Starve is a thrilling choice. The game revolves around the relentless search for food to avoid starvation, but also involves building shelters and maintaining fires to fend off the darkness and maintain sanity. With permanent death, the stakes are high, yet so are the rewards. There's also a multiplayer expansion, Don't Starve Together, for cooperative play.
Starbound
Image credit: Chucklefish | Developer: Chucklefish | Publisher: Chucklefish | Release Date: June 22, 2016 | Platforms: Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, macOS, Linux | Review: IGN's Starbound review
Similar to Terraria, Starbound is a 2D game where you explore multiple alien planets using your starship as a base. Structures serve more as temporary outposts rather than permanent homes. Your equipment defines your character's class, offering a structured yet open gameplay experience compared to its peers.
LEGO Fortnite
Image credit: Epic Games | Developer: Epic Games | Publisher: Epic Games | Release Date: December 7 | Platforms: Most | Review: IGN's LEGO Fortnite review
Launched in December 2023, LEGO Fortnite is a free-to-play survival game that merges the essence of Minecraft and Fortnite. It's an excellent introduction to survival games, bringing the joy of the best LEGO games to players at no cost. If you're a fan of Epic Games' shooter, don't miss our list of games similar to Fortnite.
No Man’s Sky
Image credit: Hello Games | Developer: Hello Games | Publisher: Hello Games | Release Date: August 9, 2016 | Platforms: PS4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Windows, macOS, iPadOS | Review: IGN's No Man's Sky Beyond review
No Man’s Sky, despite its rocky start, has evolved through continuous updates and expansions into a unique sandbox experience. You can survive, gather resources to travel between planets, or relax in a creative mode with no limits. It's also a great alternative if you're interested in games like Starfield.
Dragon Quest Builders 2
Image credit: Square Enix | Developer: Square Enix/Omega Force/Koei Tecmo Games | Publisher: Square Enix | Release Date: December 20, 2018 | Platforms: PS4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows, Nintendo Switch | Review: IGN's Dragon Quest Builders 2 review
This spin-off from the Dragon Quest series introduces four-player co-op in a sandbox world. You can engage in combat, build fortresses, and partake in various management tasks, all enveloped in a stunning and adorable art style. Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a building RPG well worth your time.
LEGO Worlds
Image credit: Warner Bros. Interactive | Developer: Traveller's Tales | Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive | Release Date: June 1, 2015 | Platforms: Windows, PS4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch | Review: IGN's LEGO Worlds review
Unlike many other LEGO games, LEGO Worlds offers a full sandbox experience made entirely of LEGO bricks. You can collect items and decorations across a procedurally-generated map to create your own space. Use terraforming tools to alter the landscape or build your designs with the "brick by brick editor."
What do you think of our top picks? Have we left something out? Let us know in the comments or vote for your favorite in the poll above.
Next, explore how to play Minecraft for free to start your adventure, or delve into our guide to the best survival games for more experiences like these.
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