Windows 10 Server Connection: How to Join Friends in Minecraft Cross-Platform Play

10/02/2023

Minecraft's cross-platform play allows players to connect and play together across different devices, bringing friends from various platforms together in the virtual world. If you're playing Minecraft on Windows 10 and want to join your friends who are playing on different platforms, this article will guide you through the process of joining friends in Minecraft cross-platform play.

Before we begin, ensure the following:

1. Minecraft Bedrock Edition: Cross-platform play is supported in Minecraft Bedrock Edition, which is available on Windows 10, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, and more. Make sure you and your friends have Minecraft Bedrock Edition installed on your respective devices.

2. Microsoft Account: Ensure that you and your friends have Microsoft accounts. Cross-platform play in Minecraft Bedrock Edition requires all players to have a Microsoft account for authentication.

Now, let's proceed with joining friends in Minecraft cross-platform play:

Step 1: Launch Minecraft and Sign In

1. Launch Minecraft on your Windows 10 device.
2. If prompted, sign in with your Microsoft account. If you don't have a Microsoft account, create one by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Add Friends to Your Xbox Live Account

1. Open the Xbox Console Companion app on your Windows 10 device.
2. Sign in with the same Microsoft account used in Minecraft.
3. Select the "Friends" tab and click on "Add Friend."
4. Enter the Xbox Live gamertag or Microsoft account email address of your friend.
5. Send the friend request.

Step 3: Accept Friend Requests

1. Ask your friends to check their Xbox Console Companion app or Xbox Live account for friend requests.
2. Once they receive the friend request, they can accept it.

Step 4: Create or Join a World

1. Decide who will host the Minecraft world. The host should have a device that can support the Minecraft Bedrock Edition and act as the server.
2. Launch Minecraft and select "Play" from the main menu.
3. If you're the host, click on "Create New" to start a new world. Customize the settings, such as world type, game mode, and difficulty, as desired. Once done, click on "Create" to generate the world.
4. If you're joining a friend's world, click on "Friends" from the main menu. You should see your friend's name and the world they are currently playing in. Click on your friend's name and select "Join."

Step 5: Joining Through Invitations

1. Alternatively, your friend can send you an invitation to join their world. To do this, they need to be in the game world and open the pause menu.
2. From the pause menu, they can select "Invite to Game" and choose your name from the friend list.
3. You will receive an invitation through the Xbox Console Companion app or Windows notifications. Accept the invitation to join the world.

Step 6: Cross-Platform Play

Once connected, you and your friends can interact, collaborate, and explore the Minecraft world together, regardless of the platform you are playing on.

By following these steps, you can join your friends in Minecraft cross-platform play on your Windows 10 device. Remember to have Minecraft Bedrock Edition installed, sign in with a Microsoft account, and send/receive friend requests to connect with your friends.

Enjoy the multiplayer experience, build together, embark on adventures, and create lasting memories in the boundless world of Minecraft. Cross-platform play bridges the gap between different devices, allowing you and your friends to connect and enjoy the game together, regardless of your chosen platform.