The Java Edition of Minecraft is often considered to be the quintessential Minecraft experience by many hardcore Minecraft fans. Mojang provides a way for users to test out upcoming updates before they are officially released. Mojang frequently releases updates and such for Minecraft Java Edition weeks or even months ahead of the cross-platform Bedrock Edition.
However, the beta for the Minecraft: Java Edition is a little different from others you may have participated in. Instead of having you enroll in a beta program, Mojang instead releases snapshots. These are miniature versions that you can run in your own Minecraft installation, to test new updates. Snapshots are periodically released, so make sure you check back often for updates on the latest releases.
How to use Minecraft snapshots
Don't be afraid of the complexity of Minecraft: Java Edition's snapshots. Although none of the betas are difficult to take part in, the Java Edition is by far the easiest. Here's the complete step-by-step.
Open the Minecraft Launcher on your PC. This is the Java Edition Minecraft Launcher. You will need it installed on your PC. Find the Installations Tab at the top right of the Launcher, and click it. The Installations tab is where you can manage different game versions, including but not limited to the snapshots. 1. There are a few boxes under Versions located in the upper right-hand corner. Find Snapshots and select the box next to it. After a few seconds, the latest snapshot should appear in the list of versions that you have to choose.
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1. Once the snapshot has been displayed, you can click the green play button next to it. The Minecraft Launcher will take a moment to prepare and download the new snapshot, then Minecraft should start up like normal.
1. And you're good to play! It's that simple.
Wrapping up
Once you're done messing around with the snapshot, you can choose the vanilla Minecraft version to play it instead. The best thing about Java Edition's beta is the freedom to choose which version you want. You can jump back and forth as much as you want, without having to worry about jumping through hoops or constantly enrolling in different programs.
Do you have any crazy stories about trying to play a snap? What's been your favorite one? Please comment below!