Mojang Studios has announced that the beloved sandbox game, Minecraft, will discontinue support for virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) headsets on PC starting in March 2025. This decision marks a significant shift for players who have enjoyed the immersive experience that VR technology offers within the Minecraft universe.
In a recent update, Mojang confirmed that after March 2025, future updates for Minecraft on PC will no longer include support for VR/MR devices. While players will still be able to access the game and continue building their worlds without VR, the option to play in virtual reality will be removed. This decision follows a similar announcement regarding the discontinuation of support for PlayStation VR (PSVR) headsets, which will also cease to receive updates after the same date.
For players who have invested in VR technology to enhance their Minecraft experience, this news may come as a disappointment. Mojang’s official statement clarified that the last update supporting VR/MR will be rolled out in March 2025, after which users will still be able to play Minecraft on standard PC setups. Existing worlds and Marketplace purchases, including Minecoins, will remain accessible, but the immersive VR experience will no longer be an option.
Despite the discontinuation of official VR support, players looking to experience Minecraft in virtual reality still have alternative routes available. The Java Edition of Minecraft allows for unofficial VR support through various mods. For instance, Vivecraft enables compatibility with SteamVR-compatible headsets, while Questcraft caters to Meta Quest headset users. However, it is important to note that these options may not be applicable for those who have created worlds in the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft, which does not support these mods.
The decision to drop VR support comes amid ongoing discussions about the viability and popularity of VR gaming. Although the technology has made significant strides in recent years, it has yet to achieve widespread adoption among the gaming community, which may have influenced Mojang’s decision to focus its resources elsewhere. The studio’s commitment to enhancing the core Minecraft experience for traditional PC gamers appears to be a priority moving forward.
While the future of VR in Minecraft remains uncertain, the possibility for renewed support could hinge on a shift in the gaming landscape. Should VR technology gain traction and become more widely embraced by players, Mojang may reconsider its stance on supporting VR in Minecraft. For now, however, players will need to adapt to the changes and explore the game through traditional means or unofficial mods.
As the gaming community processes this news, discussions are ongoing in various forums, including the OC3D Forums, where fans can share their thoughts and experiences regarding the upcoming changes to Minecraft’s VR support. The announcement has sparked a variety of reactions, from disappointment among VR enthusiasts to discussions about the future of gaming technology.
Minecraft continues to evolve, and while the removal of VR support may be a setback for some, the game remains a versatile platform for creativity and exploration. With millions of players worldwide, Minecraft’s legacy as a groundbreaking title in the gaming industry is secure, and its community continues to thrive.
For those keen on exploring the world of Minecraft without VR, the game offers a plethora of features, updates, and community-driven content that ensure players remain engaged. Whether building intricate structures, embarking on adventures, or participating in multiplayer experiences, Minecraft will continue to captivate audiences long after VR support is phased out.
