If you've always, always wanted to gather blocks and build structures in "Minecraft"--and actually feel like you're the one erecting monoliths in the game world--fret not. The game is coming to virtual reality via the magic of the Oculus Rift, and you won't have to wait long: the VR version is apparently dropping next week.
According to "Minecraft" developer Mojang, who's also owned by Microsoft, the Windows 10 beta is dropping next week. Mojang developer Tommaso Checchi leaked the announcement on Twitter late last week.
All you have to do to get the Windows 10 Beta version of "Minecraft," which will be fully compatible with the Oculus Rift VR set, is to make sure you already have a copy of the game. Just go to the "Minecraft" website and log in with your account, et voila--you can download the beta version for free.
According to Engadget, the virtual reality version of "Minecraft" really is an immersive treat, a one-of-a-kind gameplay experience in full 360 degrees. While the Oculus Rift version is an upgrade in itself, it's also possible that they take this a step further with the improved "Minecraft" experience will be even better on Microsoft's upcoming augmented reality-based Hololens peripheral.
"Notch," the creator of "Minecraft," originally really wanted the game to be playable via virtual reality a long time ago. He changed his mind after Facebook bought the Oculus Rift company, but after Microsoft bought developer Mojang, they decided to continue the VR version of "Minecraft." The VR-compatible beta should be available to all "Minecraft" players by the end of this week, while full VR compatibility should also be following soon.