Can I get Minecraft for free on Switch if I have an account?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a passionate Minecraft fan and Switch gamer myself, I completely understand the desire to want to play Minecraft everywhere for one low price. But unfortunately, that isn‘t possible and you do need to purchase Minecraft separately on Nintendo Switch even if you already own it elsewhere.

Let me explain the key reasons why:

Minecraft‘s "Walled Garden" Sales Approach

According to sales data, Minecraft has sold an astounding 200+ million copies globally across all platforms as of 2020. Despite this huge success, Microsoft and Mojang utilize a strict "walled garden" sales model for Minecraft.

What this means is each edition of the game is specifically developed for a certain platform like Switch, Xbox, PC, iOS etc. And each edition is considered a separate product that must be purchased individually.

For example, I already own Minecraft on PC, but that purchase is tied solely to my Mojang account and the Windows 10 edition. It does not allow me to freely download or access Minecraft on my Nintendo Switch, which has its own $29.99 USD eShop listing.

Account Linking Only Enables Cross-Platform Play

Linking your Microsoft account or Xbox Live gamertag to your Nintendo Switch does connect important features like cross-platform multiplayer and save syncing. But it does not unlock access to games you don‘t already own on that platform.

Even though I can log in to my Switch with my Xbox credentials, I still have to pay $29.99 again if I want to play Minecraft on my Switch. My existing Xbox game licenses don‘t automatically work on other consoles.

Game Pass Doesn‘t Include Switch

For Xbox and PC owners, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate provides a great value by bundling 100+ games for one monthly subscription fee. And Minecraft is included in that catalog.

However, Game Pass Ultimate only works on Microsoft platforms. That means Xbox consoles and Windows PCs. Nintendo Switch is not supported, so Game Pass does not allow you to play Minecraft for free on the Switch.

Nintendo Switch Online Doesn‘t Provide Full Games

A Nintendo Switch Online membership unlocks online multiplayer, cloud saves, and retro NES/SNES games for $3.99/month. But it does not grant access to any full modern games for free like Minecraft.

Since Minecraft costs $29.99 on the eShop, a Switch Online membership sadly doesn‘t entitle you to a free copy. The benefits are mostly limited to online services rather than free games.

No Trials or Demos on Switch

On some platforms like Xbox and mobile devices, Minecraft offers limited time free trials or demo versions you can download. This lets you test the game before committing to buying the full version.

Unfortunately, there are currently no trials, demos or lite versions of Minecraft available on Nintendo Switch. The only way to play is to purchase the full-price game on the eShop for $29.99 up front.

Still the Same Great Game!

While you can‘t get Minecraft at no additional cost on Switch based on accounts or ownership elsewhere, the Switch Edition offers the same amazing Minecraft experience on-the-go or on your TV.

For millions of Minecraft fans, paying $29.99 is absolutely worth it to be able to dig, build, and explore from anywhere. The portability and flexibility of Minecraft on Switch opens up gameplay opportunities that most platforms can‘t match.

So in summary – you need to purchase Minecraft separately on each platform you want to play on. But for many fans, that extra one-time fee is a small price to pay for the ability to enjoy their favorite game on Nintendo‘s hit hybrid console!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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