When Minecraft was first launched, no one could have predicted the tremendous popularity that Mojang's indie game would achieve.
Now, two years after its initial release, Minecraft has surpassed a milestone that even full retail games would envy - selling over 3 million copies. Despite the game's already monumental success, Notch and the team at Mojang aren't planning on slowing down. Markus "Notch" Persson, the creator of Minecraft, made the announcement via his Twitter feed - breaking the news to his 280,000 followers. The news comes hot on the heels of last months news that the indie game had attracted 10 million registered accounts to the game.
Developed by Swedish based Mojang, Minecraft has attained huge amounts ofcritical and consumer success in its short existence. This despite the game not being backed by a large developer. The game has attained a large community following which has helped to promote and spread word of the game. Large scale projects have helped to showcase the game's unique building mechanics.
Users who register on Mojang's website are able to play a reduced version of the game via their web browser. Registration is free and grants access to the limited version - so long as the user is connected to the internet. People who purchase the game receive free updates and the ability to take the game offline and onto online servers. They can also download 'mods' and extensions as they wish, making the game more customizable.
Gamers who have already purchased the indie hit still have a lot to look forward too in the games future. With the much anticipated 1.8 "Adventure Update" bringing a slew of new features to the game. This update brings more direction to the title, adding in a number of new features which turn the building game into a more traditional role playing game.
The list of major new features currently revealed include:
- NPC Villages
- Randomly Generated Dungeons
- The Enderman - a new mob
- Ruins
- Critical Hits
- XP progression system
The game is expected to leave beta phase in November; around the same time that the first official Minecraft convention (named Minecon) takes place - in Las Vegas.
The game will also soon be available on Microsoft's Xbox Live Arcade. Announced at E3 2011, this will mark the first time Minecraft is made avaliable on the home consoles. No specific details have been released about the Xbox 360 version of the game - however mention of a beta has been teased by Notch. GameRant will keep you informed of any news regarding this version.
Minecraft is currently in open beta and can be purchased via the Mojang website.