We’re guessing there are quite a few Minecraft console players anticipating the free new Minecraft: Console Edition update that launched today for all platforms. The fine folks over at Mojang and 4J Studios are still working out some connection issues behind the scenes, but apparently the update is officially live on all Xbox and PlayStation platforms, and the Wii U.
Minecraft: Console Edition – Battle Mini Game comes with a few arenas to start, but they are working on map packs and entirely new mini-games as we speak.
See the official announcement from Mojang below or at their official blog.
Are you a master swordsman? A dead-shot with a bow? A demolitions expert? A fisherperson with an unusual lust for vengeance? Then sharpen those tools of destruction and strap on your toughest enchanted helm: it?s time to do Battle!
Battle is the first of several mini games we?re releasing for Console Edition and will be rolling out as free update across Xbox, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, PS Vita and Wii U today. It?s a last-minecrafter-standing deathmatch in which players tussle over resources and weapons in perilous arenas, fending off would-be assassins and their own hunger pangs.
We?ve designed it specifically for consoles in mind – it?s super-accessible and fast-paced, made to support couch-based competition just as easily as online matchmaking. There?s no need to craft anything here, and you can loot inventories and equip armour with the tap of a button. Fall beneath your opponent?s blade (or enchanted fishing rod) and you respawn as a spectating bat, fluttering in the face of your nemesis.
Battle comes with three spectacular-looking arenas for free, but we?ll release more map packs down the line, each costing $2.99. And watch out for more mini games in the future too – we?re hoping to really amp up the variety of Minecraft on consoles, helping players to set up bizarre and outlandish rulesets without the fuss of manual countdowns, refilling loot chests, or score-keeping.
In the meantime, watch your back, stay sharp and enjoy the sweet taste of victory!
Cheerio!
Marsh – @marshdavies