Minecraft: Switch Edition Now Available on the eShop

Minecraft has been released on every possible console – including some Android boxes, since its console debut many years ago. The first ever fully-fledged version on a portable device is now available as the Switch Edition of the game has launched on the eShop. This version of the classic will run you $30 – so it’s a bit pricier than some, but it does have some neat Nintendo-only goodies. It’s rather odd for a game owned by Microsoft to have this kind of thing, but when you’ve got a franchise that transcends the IP owner and will rake in more money with features like that, it’s smart business.

Having Mario-themed outfits, worlds, and even power-ups makes this a more accessible game. For someone like myself who isn’t really into crafting games, but doesn’t mind – this kind of thing is a perfect gateway. It mixes just enough familiarity into the concept that newcomers have reasons to stick around. For veteran players, it adds several new wrinkles to things and gives you more for your money overall because of the increased variety in tasks. A retail release is planned, but a release date hasn’t been set in stone – which is a bit odd since Minecraft: Story Mode is pegged for a July 18 release.