11 Minecraft Alternatives to Play in 2025

Minecraft has captivated millions of gamers worldwide, earning its place as one of the best-selling video games ever. But what if Minecraft isn't quite your cup of tea? Or perhaps you're a devoted fan seeking similar adventures? We've curated a list of the top 11 games that echo the essence of Minecraft, offering you a variety of experiences to dive into right away!

Each of these games captures a unique aspect of Minecraft's gameplay. Whether you're in the mood for building, surviving, or simply enjoying a peaceful crafting session, there's something on this list for every type of player. Here are the 11 best games like 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 dynamic game platform and creation system. Unlike Minecraft's standard crafting and survival gameplay, Roblox lets you craft your own game experiences or immerse yourself in creations from the community. If you're drawn to Minecraft's multiplayer features, especially the thrill of special game modes and minigames with friends and strangers, Roblox is the perfect match. Keep in mind, while the base game is free, you'll need to purchase Robux for in-game enhancements or to customize your avatar.

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 revel in Minecraft's farming and cultivation but prefer the safety of Peaceful mode, Slime Rancher 1 and 2 are ideal. These RPGs revolve around managing a farm filled with adorable slime creatures. The in-game economy and puzzle-like elements of slime combinations provide endless hours of engaging gameplay. It's a delightful indie game that's perfect for losing yourself in.

Satisfactory

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

Satisfactory caters to Minecraft enthusiasts who enjoy harvesting resources and constructing vast warehouses and factories. While more complex than Minecraft's systems, the thrill of automating resource collection and processing in Satisfactory is just as rewarding. This game is best suited for players who appreciate a challenge and a deeper level of automation.

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 hailed as a close cousin to Minecraft, despite its 2D side-scrolling format. Each generated world offers endless possibilities, from delving into the depths of hell to constructing towering bases. With bosses to conquer, NPCs to recruit, and unique biomes to explore, Terraria keeps you hooked, always tempting you to discover just a bit more.

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 personalized life-simulation experience with crafting and mining at its core, Stardew Valley is the game for you. As a new resident in a charming rural town, you'll build relationships, engage in various activities, and revitalize your dilapidated home—either solo or with friends. Not only is it a standout on the Nintendo Switch, but it's also highly praised on mobile platforms, often ranking among the top iPhone games.

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

If the eerie survival aspects of Minecraft's Survival mode resonate with you, then Don't Starve is a must-try. The primary challenge is to find food and avoid starvation, but you'll also need to build shelters and maintain fires to stay warm and sane. With permanent death, the stakes are high, but the rewards are equally satisfying. There's also a multiplayer expansion, Don't Starve Together, for those who enjoy playing with friends.

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 in style to Terraria, Starbound takes you on an adventure across various alien planets, using your starship as a base. Structures here serve more as temporary outposts rather than permanent homes. Your equipment defines your character's class, adding a structured layer to the game's open-ended nature, setting it apart from its peers.

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 that blends elements from both Minecraft and Fortnite. It's an excellent introduction to survival games, offering the fun and creativity of LEGO in a free-to-play format. If you're a fan of Epic Games' shooter, be sure to explore our list of games like 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, with its sci-fi setting, had a challenging start but has since evolved through substantial updates and free expansions. You can choose to survive by gathering resources to travel between planets or relax in a creative mode with no limits. This game also resonates with fans of titles like 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

As a spin-off from the iconic Dragon Quest series, Dragon Quest Builders 2 brings sandbox building to a four-player co-op experience. Engage in combat, construct fortresses, and delve into management sim elements, all within a charming and visually appealing world. This building RPG is definitely worth exploring.

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

Unlike other recent LEGO titles, LEGO Worlds is a pure sandbox game built entirely out of LEGO bricks. Explore the procedurally-generated world to gather items and decorations, and then use them to personalize your space. With terraforming tools and a detailed "brick by brick" editor, you can truly make your mark on the world.

What do you think of our top picks? Have we left something out? Let us know in the comments or vote for your favorite in the poll above.

Next, check out how to play Minecraft for free to start playing or dive into our guide to the best survival games for more like this.