Just like the first release of Minecraft all those years ago, this version will develop and evolve over time with the help of your feedback. That’s why it has “Beta” in the title - because it’s not quite finished, and will become even more fun over time. Just like the other versions of Minecraft, all future updates will be free.

If you’re one of the more than 20 million players who have the PC edition of Minecraft (referred to by techy people as the Java version) you’ll be able to download Windows 10 Edition Beta from the Windows 10 store for free. Other players can get it for the paltry price of $10 during the beta period (the length of which is still being decided).

In Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta, you’ll recognize some Pocket Edition features, along with potpourri of cool extras.

with the new features coming to Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta and Minecraft: Pocket Edition, you’ll have more ways than ever to build and explore your own elaborate worlds alongside your friends, whether you’re playing on Windows 10 PC, Windows Phone, iOS, or Android.

For the first time ever, up to five friends can play cross-platform multiplayer on a local network between Minecraft: Pocket Edition and Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta. The Windows 10 Edition Beta also now allows up to five friends play together over Xbox Live. And no matter what edition you’re playing, you’ll be able to buff up your equipment with special effects from enchanting tables.

This is also the biggest update for Minecraft: Pocket Edition to date, bringing a host of highly-requested catch-up features for mobile players. For starters, you’ll get to enjoy revamped touch controls, controller support, and the controller mapping screen. You’ll also be treated to the same enhanced weather effects that Windows 10 Edition Beta players have received, including snow accumulation and directional rain. And in addition to plenty of new goodies to build and potions to brew, you’ll now be able to encounter golems and ocelots, and even explore the Nether. Finally, this update brings the ability to sneak and sprint in Pocket Edition.

Here are some highlights:

• Craft, create, and explore online with up to seven friends playing Windows 10 Edition Beta, through local multiplayer or with your Xbox Live friends online.
• Play online and local multiplayer with other Pocket Edition players thanks to a free update, due to arrive soon after launch.
• Multiple control schemes! Switch between controller, touch, and keyboard controls with little to no effort!
• Record and share gameplay highlights with built-in GameDVR.
• Help shape the future of Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta with our built-in player feedback mechanisms!
• Chickens, zombies, pigs, boats, armed skeletons, potatoes, zombies, baby squids, enchantment tables, villagers, naked sheep, iron golems, potions, ghasts, pickaxes, carrots, and all the weird and wonderful goodness you’ve come to expect from Minecraft.