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Minecraft is a popular sandbox game that allows players to build and explore virtual worlds. One of the most exciting features of Minecraft is the ability to play multiplayer, where you can join friends or other players to collaborate, compete, or simply have fun together. However, playing multiplayer on Minecraft Pocket Edition (PE) for Android isn’t as straightforward as on other platforms. In this blog post, we will guide you through different methods to help you enjoy multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android devices. Whether you want to play with your friends locally or join a server online, we’ve got you covered!
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Playing Multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android
While playing multiplayer is a fantastic experience, Minecraft PE on Android has some limitations compared to other platforms. The main challenge stems from the absence of a built-in server browser on Minecraft PE Android. Unlike on PC or gaming consoles, where you can easily find and join multiplayer servers, Android users must rely on alternative methods to connect with others. This can be a bit frustrating for those who aren’t familiar with the various options available. However, with the right preparations and a little bit of know-how, you’ll be able to overcome these challenges and start playing multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before diving into the methods of playing multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android, there are a few things you should prepare to ensure a smooth gaming experience:
1. Minecraft PE App: Make sure you have the latest version of Minecraft PE installed on your Android device. You can download it from the Google Play Store.
2. Stable Internet Connection: Playing multiplayer requires a stable internet connection, especially when joining online servers. Make sure you are connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network or have a strong cellular data connection.
3. Minecraft Account: To play multiplayer, you need a Minecraft account. If you don’t have one, you can create a new account on the official Minecraft website.
4. Friends or Server IP: Depending on the method you choose, you will need either the usernames of your friends or the IP address of the server you want to join. Make sure you have this information ready before proceeding.
Method 1: Local Multiplayer via Wi-Fi
Playing Minecraft PE on Android with your friends locally is a great way to enjoy multiplayer without relying on external servers. Here’s how you can set up a local multiplayer game using Wi-Fi:
1. Ensure that all players are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Launch Minecraft PE on each Android device.
3. Choose a device to host the local multiplayer game and select "Play."
4. At the world selection screen, choose a world or create a new one.
5. Once inside the world, open the in-game menu by tapping on the three dots in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
6. Tap on "Server" and then select "Multiplayer."
7. The hosting device will generate an IP address. Share this IP address with the other players.
8. On the other devices, tap on "Play," then select "Friends," and finally tap on "Add Server."
9. Enter the IP address provided by the host and give the server a name.
10. Tap on "Save" and then "Join Server." You should now be connected to the local multiplayer game.
Pros:
– Easy to set up and play with friends.
– No external servers or internet connection required.
– Can easily control who can join the game.
Cons:
– Limited to playing with friends who are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
– Performance may be affected by network latency or device capabilities.
Method 2: Joining an External Server via IP Address
If you want to play Minecraft PE on Android with others who are not physically nearby, joining an external server is your best bet. Here’s how you can join a server by using its IP address:
1. Launch Minecraft PE on your Android device.
2. Tap on "Play" and then select "Friends."
3. Tap on "Add Server" and enter the IP address of the server you want to join. You can obtain the server’s IP address from the server owner or a Minecraft server listing website.
4. Give the server a name and tap on "Save."
5. Once the server is added, tap on it and then tap on "Join Server." You should now be connected to the external server and can start playing multiplayer.
Pros:
– Ability to join servers that have a specific theme or community.
– Can play with players from all around the world.
– Variety of multiplayer game modes and customizations available.
Cons:
– Relies on the availability and reliability of external servers.
– Performance may be affected by the server’s capabilities and distance from your location.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
If you’re looking for an alternative solution to playing multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android, you can rely on third-party apps. These apps act as intermediaries and help you connect with other players or servers. One popular app that you can use is "Multiplayer for Minecraft PE."
1. Install and launch "Multiplayer for Minecraft PE" on your Android device.
2. Tap on "Play with Friends" and then select "Local Server."
3. Create a username and tap on "Create Server." This will create a local server that others can join.
4. Share the IP address displayed on the screen with your friends.
5. On your friends’ devices, they can tap on "Play with Friends" and select "Join a Server."
6. Enter the IP address provided and tap on "Join Server." They should now be connected to your local server.
Pros:
– Provides an easy-to-use interface for connecting with friends or servers.
– Can discover public servers based on your preferences.
– Additional features like chat and in-app purchases to enhance your multiplayer experience.
Cons:
– Relies on the availability and reliability of the third-party app.
– Performance may vary depending on the app and server selected.
Method 4: Via Xbox Live
If you have an Xbox Live account, you can also play multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android by using Xbox Live. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Launch Minecraft PE on your Android device.
2. Tap on "Profile" and then select "Sign In."
3. Enter your Xbox Live account credentials and sign in.
4. Once signed in, tap on "Play" and select a world or create a new one.
5. In the world, open the in-game menu by tapping on the three dots in the bottom-right corner.
6. Tap on "Server" and then select "Friends."
7. Choose a friend from your Xbox Live friends list and send them an invite to join your world.
8. Once they accept the invite, they should be able to join your world and play multiplayer.
Pros:
– Seamless integration with Xbox Live for multiplayer gaming.
– No additional apps or external servers required.
– Can easily connect with friends on Xbox Live.
Cons:
– Limited to playing with friends who also have Xbox Live accounts.
– Performance may be affected by Xbox Live’s server capabilities.
Why Can’t I Connect to Multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android?
There can be several reasons why you might have trouble connecting to multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android. Here are a few common issues and their possible fixes:
1. Network Connectivity: Make sure you have a stable internet connection and are connected to the same network or server as the other players.
2. Incompatible Versions: Ensure that all players have the same version of Minecraft PE installed. If not, update the game to the latest version.
3. Firewall or Router Settings: Check your router or firewall settings to make sure they aren’t blocking the necessary ports for Minecraft PE multiplayer. Consult your router’s manual or contact your internet service provider for assistance.
4. Server Availability: If you’re joining an external server, the server might be temporarily offline or at full capacity. Try joining at a different time or look for alternative servers.
Additional Tips
To enhance your multiplayer experience on Minecraft PE Android, consider the following tips:
1. Communicate with Other Players: Use in-game chat or external communication apps to coordinate with other players and enhance teamwork.
2. Explore Different Servers: Join various servers with different themes or game modes to discover new experiences and communities.
3. Follow Server Rules and Etiquette: Each server may have its own rules and guidelines. Respect them and promote a positive gaming environment.
5 FAQs about Playing Multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android
Q1: Can I play Minecraft PE on Android with players on other platforms?
A: Unfortunately, cross-platform multiplayer is not supported on Minecraft PE. You can only play with other players who are on the same platform, such as Android, iOS, or Windows 10.
Q2: How many players can join a local multiplayer game?
A: The number of players that can join a local multiplayer game on Minecraft PE Android depends on the hosting device’s capabilities. However, the maximum limit is typically around 4-8 players.
Q3: Are there any public servers available for Minecraft PE Android?
A: Yes, there are several public servers available for Minecraft PE Android. You can find a list of servers on websites dedicated to Minecraft server listings or through third-party apps.
Q4: Can I use mods or add-ons in multiplayer games on Minecraft PE Android?
A: It depends on the server you join. Some servers allow mods and add-ons, while others may have specific restrictions or rules. Make sure to check the server’s guidelines before using any mods or add-ons.
Q5: Can I switch between multiplayer and single-player games without losing progress?
A: Yes, you can switch between multiplayer and single-player games on Minecraft PE Android without losing progress. Your world data and inventory should remain intact when transitioning between different game modes.
In Conclusion
Playing multiplayer on Minecraft PE Android can be an exciting and immersive experience. By following the methods and tips outlined in this blog post, you’ll be able to enjoy multiplayer games with your friends or join vast online communities. Whether you choose to play locally, join external servers, use third-party apps, or utilize Xbox Live, the possibilities for multiplayer fun are endless. So grab your Android device, gather your friends, and embark on countless adventures in the vast Minecraft universe!