Minecraft has captured the hearts of millions, becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. However, if it didn't quite click with you, or if you're craving more of that blocky, creative gameplay, we've curated a list of the 11 best games similar to Minecraft that you can dive into right now!
Each of these games captures a unique aspect of Minecraft's allure, from building and surviving to crafting and exploring. Whether you're in the mood for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful crafting experience, there's something for everyone on this list. 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 is a versatile game platform and creation system that, while not inherently focused on crafting and survival like Minecraft, offers endless possibilities for creating and playing user-generated games. If you enjoy the multiplayer aspects of Minecraft, including special game modes and minigames, Roblox is a fantastic alternative. While the base game is free, you'll need Robux to purchase in-game upgrades or accessories for 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 relish Minecraft's farming and cultivating elements, and prefer a peaceful setting, Slime Rancher 1 and 2 are perfect picks. These games immerse you in the delightful task of building a farm to collect and breed different types of slimes. With an engaging economy and puzzle-like slime combinations, these indie titles offer hours of charming gameplay.
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 those who enjoy Minecraft's resource harvesting and factory building. With its more complex systems, it may not suit everyone, but the thrill of setting up automated resource farms is just as satisfying here as in Minecraft. Dive into this game for a more sophisticated take on industrial 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 cited alongside Minecraft due to its similar gameplay, albeit in a 2D side-scrolling format. Each world offers limitless potential for exploration, building, and combat. From digging to the depths of hell to constructing towering fortresses, Terraria offers a rich and engaging experience that's hard to put down.
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
For those who enjoy Minecraft's crafting and mining but crave a more structured life-sim experience, Stardew Valley is a perfect match. As the new owner of a rundown farm, you'll cultivate relationships, engage in various activities, and rebuild your home. It's a beloved title on Nintendo Switch and mobile, often topping the charts as one of the best games in its genre.
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 Minecraft's Survival mode thrills you with its spooky elements, Don't Starve will captivate you. Surviving is the core challenge, with finding food and building shelter crucial to staying alive. The game's high stakes and permanent death mechanic make every decision intense, but the rewards are equally gratifying. Plus, the multiplayer expansion, Don't Starve Together, lets you share the adventure 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 to Terraria, Starbound offers a 2D adventure across alien planets. With your starship as a base, you'll build outposts and explore new worlds. Your equipment shapes your character's class, adding a layer of structure to the sandbox gameplay that sets it apart from other titles in this list.
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 entry point for those new to survival games, offering the fun and creativity of LEGO in a free format. If you're a fan of Fortnite, you might also enjoy 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 started with a rocky launch but has since evolved into a vast sandbox with continuous updates and expansions. Whether you're exploring planets, surviving harsh environments, or relaxing in a creative mode, this game offers a unique sci-fi adventure that's also reminiscent of games 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
A spinoff from the iconic Dragon Quest series, Dragon Quest Builders 2 introduces cooperative multiplayer to its sandbox world. Engage in building, combat, and various management activities, all wrapped in a visually appealing and charming art style. This game is a must-play for fans of building RPGs.
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 made entirely of LEGO bricks. Explore procedurally-generated worlds, collect items, and build to your heart's content. With terraforming tools and a "brick by brick" editor, you can create and customize your environment in endless ways.
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.
