Top 11 Minecraft Alternatives to Play in 2025

Minecraft has captured the hearts of millions worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games ever. But what if Minecraft isn't quite your thing, or perhaps you're craving more adventures similar to it? We've curated a list of the 11 best games like Minecraft that you can dive into right now!

Each of these games shares key elements with Minecraft, whether it's the thrill of building and surviving or the joy of crafting in a serene environment. There's a perfect match here for every type of player. Let's explore 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 not just a game; it's a vast platform where creativity knows no bounds. While it doesn't offer the traditional crafting and survival of Minecraft, you can create your own game experiences or dive into those crafted by others. If you relish Minecraft's multiplayer aspect, with its special game modes and minigames, Roblox is a fantastic alternative. Keep in mind, 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 fans of Minecraft's farming and cultivating features, especially those who prefer the Peaceful mode, Slime Rancher 1 and 2 offer a delightful experience. These RPGs center around building a farm to collect and breed adorable slime creatures. With an engaging economy and puzzle-like slime combinations, these indie titles can easily captivate you for hours.

Satisfactory

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

Satisfactory is perfect for those who enjoy harvesting resources and constructing vast factories in Minecraft. Though its systems are more complex than Minecraft's, the satisfaction of building an automated resource farm is equally rewarding. It's not ideal for those who prefer simplicity, but for others, it's a dream come true.

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

A classic counterpart to Minecraft, Terraria shares many similarities but offers a 2D side-scrolling experience. Each world is brimming with possibilities, from digging to the depths of hell to building sky-high bases. With bosses to conquer, NPCs to recruit, and unique items and biomes to discover, Terraria is endlessly engaging.

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

Stardew Valley offers a more structured life-sim experience with core elements of crafting and mining. You take on the role of a new homeowner in a charming rural village, building relationships, engaging in various activities, and revitalizing your home. It's not only a top pick for Nintendo Switch but also a stellar mobile game, often topping the charts on iPhone.

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 Minecraft's Survival mode and its horror elements, Don't Starve is a must-try. The primary challenge is to find food and avoid starvation, while also building shelter and maintaining a fire to fend off the darkness and keep your sanity. Death is permanent, making the stakes high but the rewards satisfying. There's also a multiplayer expansion, Don't Starve Together, for cooperative play.

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 is a 2D game where you explore multiple alien planets using your starship as a base. Structures serve as temporary outposts rather than permanent homes. Your equipment shapes your character class, offering a bit more structure within its open-world setting compared to other games 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 Minecraft and Fortnite. It's an excellent introduction to survival games, bringing the joy of LEGO to players at no cost. If you're a fan of Epic Games' shooter, don't miss 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, after a challenging launch, has transformed into a remarkable sci-fi sandbox through continuous updates and expansions. You can survive and gather resources to travel between planets or enjoy a relaxed Creative mode. It's also a great option for fans 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

This spinoff from the iconic Dragon Quest series introduces up to four-player co-op in a sandbox world. Engage in combat, build fortresses, and participate in management sim activities, all enveloped in a charming art style. Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a building RPG that's definitely 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

Unlike recent LEGO games, LEGO Worlds is a full sandbox experience made entirely of LEGO bricks. Collect items and decorations across procedurally-generated maps to personalize your space. Use terraforming tools to modify landscapes or build with the "brick by brick editor".

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.