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.

As mentioned last month, Microsoft has released a free update to Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta which will enable gameplay on Oculus Rift devices.

Oculus Rift support is available for free to all owners of the Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta!

The Windows 10 DX11 performance has been optimized to augment the VR experience, and along with enabling existing VR features, we added a ton of new options like keyboard and mouse support (for those who know their keyboard that well!), and support for the Xbox One controller.

For new and experienced players alike, we hope the VR experience in Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta will illuminate just how powerful, evocative, and utterly immersive VR can really be.

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.