Understanding the Restrictions: Minecraft PS4 and Server Accessibility
Fri Jan 7. 2022
Minecraft, the popular sandbox game, offers a vast multiplayer experience that allows players to connect and collaborate with others from around the world. However, players on PlayStation 4 (PS4) may encounter certain restrictions when it comes to accessing and joining servers. These limitations are specific to the Minecraft ecosystem on the PS4 platform and impact server accessibility for PS4 players. In this article, we will explore the restrictions faced by Minecraft PS4 players and provide insights into the server accessibility landscape on the platform.
Minecraft: Bedrock Edition vs. Minecraft: Java Edition:
To understand the restrictions faced by PS4 players, it's important to distinguish between Minecraft: Bedrock Edition and Minecraft: Java Edition. The PS4 version of Minecraft is based on the Bedrock Edition, which is the unified version available on multiple platforms, including Windows 10, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. The Java Edition, on the other hand, is specific to PC and offers different multiplayer capabilities.
Limited Server Options:
One of the restrictions faced by PS4 players is the limited selection of servers compared to the Java Edition. Minecraft Bedrock Edition servers are primarily operated by Microsoft or Mojang Studios, with a curated list of partner servers available for players to join. This limitation means that PS4 players have a narrower range of server options compared to PC players, who can access a vast and diverse array of community-operated servers.
Cross-Platform Limitations:
While the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft allows for cross-platform play with other consoles and devices, including Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, PS4 players face limitations in this regard. Sony's decision to restrict cross-platform compatibility for Minecraft Bedrock Edition on the PS4 means that players are primarily limited to playing with other PS4 users. This limitation reduces the potential player pool and may result in fewer multiplayer opportunities.
PlayStation Plus Requirement:
To access multiplayer servers on the PS4, players must have an active PlayStation Plus subscription. This requirement adds an additional cost for players who want to enjoy the full multiplayer experience on their PS4 consoles. In contrast, Minecraft Java Edition on PC does not require any additional subscriptions to access multiplayer servers.
Custom Server Creation Limitations:
On the PS4, players do not have the ability to directly host their own dedicated servers like they can on the Java Edition. Server hosting is primarily handled by Microsoft or Mojang Studios, with limited control and customization options available to players. This limitation contrasts with the Java Edition, where players can freely host and customize their own servers, creating unique multiplayer experiences.
Community-Driven Servers:
Despite the restrictions faced by PS4 players, there are still community-driven servers available to join. These servers are operated by partner organizations and offer various gameplay styles and experiences. While the selection may be smaller compared to the Java Edition, PS4 players can still find opportunities to connect and collaborate with other players within these server communities.
