Home >  News >  11 Minecraft Alternatives to Play in 2025

11 Minecraft Alternatives to Play in 2025

Authore: ConnorUpdate:Apr 15,2025

Minecraft has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. Yet, not everyone may find it their perfect match, or perhaps you're an avid fan craving more of that creative, survival, and crafting magic. If that sounds like you, dive into our curated list of the 11 best games that echo the Minecraft experience, available for you to enjoy right now!

Each of these games shares a fundamental aspect of Minecraft's gameplay, whether you're into constructing elaborate worlds, surviving against the odds, or simply seeking a peaceful crafting adventure. Here's our selection of the 11 best games akin to 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. Although it doesn't offer the traditional crafting and survival elements of Minecraft out of the box, it allows you to craft your own gaming experiences or dive into those crafted by others. If you relish the multiplayer aspect of Minecraft—engaging in special modes and minigames with friends and fellow players—Roblox is a perfect fit. Note that while the base game is free, in-game upgrades and avatar accessories require Robux.

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 those who enjoy the farming and cultivating elements of Minecraft, especially in Peaceful mode where dangers are minimal, Slime Rancher 1 and 2 offer a delightful alternative. These RPGs involve building a farm to collect and breed adorable slime creatures. With an engaging in-game economy and the puzzle-like challenge of combining different slimes, you can spend countless hours immersed in this charming indie game.

Satisfactory

Image credit: Coffee Stain
Developer: Coffee Stain | Publisher: Coffee Stain | Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Platforms: Windows | Review: IGN's Satisfactory review

Satisfactory appeals to Minecraft enthusiasts who enjoy harvesting resources and building expansive factories. While its systems are more complex than Minecraft's, the thrill of setting up an automated resource farm is just as satisfying. If you prefer a more sophisticated approach to resource management, Satisfactory is the game for you.

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, and for good reason. This 2D side-scroller offers a similar experience, allowing you to dig deep into the earth or build towering structures. With bosses to defeat, NPCs to recruit, and unique biomes to explore, Terraria offers endless possibilities for adventure and creativity.

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 focused life-sim experience with crafting and mining at its core, Stardew Valley is your go-to game. As a new homeowner in a quaint village, you'll forge relationships, engage in various activities, and rebuild your farm, either solo or with friends. Not only is it one of the best games for Nintendo Switch, but it's also highly popular on mobile devices.

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 offers a thrilling experience. The game's core mechanic revolves around finding food to avoid starvation, but you'll also need to construct shelter and keep a fire burning to maintain your sanity. With permanent death, the stakes are high, but so are the rewards. Consider trying the multiplayer expansion, Don't Starve Together, for a cooperative twist.

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 lets you explore various alien planets from your starship hub. Your structures serve more as temporary outposts to aid your expeditions. Your equipment defines your character's class, adding a structured yet open feel to the gameplay.

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 blending elements from both Minecraft and Fortnite. It's an excellent entry point into survival games, offering the fun of LEGO at no cost. If you're a fan of Epic Games' shooter, you might also enjoy 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 initially faced criticism, but continuous updates and expansions have transformed it into a unique sandbox experience. Survive and gather resources to travel between planets, or relax in a creative mode with no limits. It's also a great alternative for fans of 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

A spinoff of the iconic Dragon Quest series, Dragon Quest Builders 2 introduces four-player co-op within its sandbox world. Engage in combat, construct fortresses, and manage various activities, all wrapped in an enchanting art style. It's 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

LEGO Worlds offers a full sandbox experience constructed entirely from LEGO bricks. Gather items and decorations from the procedurally-generated map to personalize your space. Use terraforming tools to modify the landscape or the "brick by brick editor" to create your own designs.

What do you think of our top picks? Have we missed any great games? Let us know in the comments below.

Next, learn how to play Minecraft for free or explore our guide to the best survival games for more experiences like these.