What you need to know
- Minecraft is a sandbox game from Microsoft.
- The title was supposed to get a visual overhaul with the Super Duper Graphics Pack.
- The team canceled the project because it didn't perform well across devices.
- You can play Minecraft through Xbox Game Pass.
In 2017, Microsoft said that it was working on a Super Duper Graphics Pack for Minecraft. This download would revamp the visuals by adding better lighting and much more to the game. Since then, we haven't heard much about the project, and today, the Minecraft Team announced that it had been canceled.
Minecraft runs on quite a number of devices and it seems like the visual upgrade proved too technically challenging for certain platforms. In a post on the game's website, the studio said the following.
Some of you might remember us announcing the Super Duper Graphics Pack during E3 2017. Super Duper was an ambitious initiative that brought a new look to Minecraft but, unfortunately, the pack proved too technically demanding to implement as planned. We realize this is disappointing to some of you – there was a lot of enthusiasm for Super Duper from inside and outside the studio – but unfortunately, we aren't happy with how the pack performed across devices. For this reason, we're stopping development on the pack and looking into other ways for you to experience Minecraft with a new look.
Hopefully, the team will find a new way to improve the visuals of the game. There are third-party mods available on a number of websites which can add better lighting and textures. Unfortunately, it looks like we'll have to wait for a first-party solution.
If you're interested in Minecraft, you can play it through Xbox Game Pass. Xbox Game Pass is a monthly subscription service which gives you immediate access to over 200 games for $10 a month. You can even bundle Xbox Game Pass for Xbox One, Xbox Game Pass for PC, and Xbox Live Gold for $15 a month.
Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold in one
Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over a hundred games for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also adds Xbox Live Gold to the package so you can play online with your friends. Right now, you can purchase a three-month subscription for $45 through Amazon.
Ditch the discs
Secure your Xbox One S: All-Digital Edition today, Microsoft's new and ambitious disc-less console. It's the cheapest Xbox One ever made, bundled with three downloadable games like Forza Horizon 3. If you don't like physical media, then this is a great option.
Awesome Minecraft merch
Love Minecraft? We're fairly certain you'll love these accessories equally.
Minecraft Sprites Premium T-Shirt ($19 at Amazon)
Show off your Minecraft pride with this premium tee from Jinx, showcasing many of Minecraft's iconic mobs.
Minecraft Lego: The End Battle ($20 at Amazon)
Who doesn't want a Lego Ender Dragon?
Minecraft for Nintendo Switch ($30 at Amazon)
Minecraft for Nintendo Switch features full cross-play between Xbox, Windows 10, mobile phones, and even VR!
Minecraft shades ($8 at Amazon)
You might think you're cool, but are you cool enough to wear these?
