Minecraft, a global sensation and one of the best-selling games ever, might not have clicked with everyone. If you're looking for something similar yet different, or if you can't get enough of the Minecraft experience, we've compiled a list of the 11 best games like Minecraft that you can dive into right now!
Each of these games captures an aspect of Minecraft's gameplay, whether you're into building and surviving, or simply seeking a relaxing crafting experience. Here are the 11 best games like Minecraft:
Roblox
Roblox is a highly popular game platform and game creation system that, while not offering the traditional crafting and survival experience of Minecraft at its core, allows you to create your own game experiences or play those crafted by others. If you're a fan of Minecraft's multiplayer aspect, including playing special game modes and minigames with friends and strangers, Roblox is a fantastic alternative. The base game is free, though you'll need to purchase Robux for in-game upgrades or accessories for your avatar.
Slime Rancher 1 and 2
If the farming and cultivating aspects of Minecraft, particularly on Peaceful mode where dangers are minimal, appeal to you, then Slime Rancher 1 and/or Slime Rancher 2 could be perfect. This RPG lets you build a farm centered around collecting and breeding different types of adorable slimy blobs. With an engaging in-game economy and puzzle-like elements in slime combinations, you can lose hours to this charming indie title.
Satisfactory
Satisfactory appeals to those who enjoy harvesting resources and building large warehouses and factories in Minecraft. Though more complex than Minecraft's systems, creating an automated resource farm in Satisfactory is just as satisfying as automated farming in Minecraft. It's not ideal for those who prefer simplicity, but it's a great choice for those who love detailed mechanics.
Terraria
Terraria, often compared to Minecraft, is a 2D side-scroller with many similarities. Each world you enter offers endless possibilities, from digging down to hell to building a base in the skies. With bosses to defeat, NPCs to recruit, and special items and biomes to discover, you'll always want to explore just a bit further!
Stardew Valley
For a more personalized life-sim experience with crafting and mining at its core, Stardew Valley places you as the new owner of a rundown home in a quaint country village. Build relationships with town residents, engage in various activities, and rebuild your home, either alone or with friends. This game is not only one of the best on the Nintendo Switch but also a top mobile title, consistently popular on iPhone.
Don’t Starve
If the eerie horror elements of Minecraft's Survival mode are what draw you in, Don’t Starve is a perfect match. The primary goal is to find food and avoid starvation, but you'll also need to build a shelter and maintain a fire to stay warm and sane at night. Death is permanent, raising the stakes, but the rewards are equally high. There's also a multiplayer expansion, Don't Starve Together, where you can play with friends.
Starbound
Similar to Terraria, this 2D game has you exploring multiple alien planets with your starship as a hub. Structures serve more as temporary outposts to keep you alive during expeditions. Your equipment determines your character's class, providing a bit more structure within its open world compared to other games in this list.
LEGO Fortnite
Released in December 2023, LEGO Fortnite is a free-to-play survival game that blends elements from both Minecraft and Fortnite. It's an excellent entry point into survival games, bringing the fun of LEGO to players at no cost. If you enjoy Epic Games' shooter, be sure to check out our list of games like Fortnite.
No Man’s Sky
No Man’s Sky, despite a rocky start, has evolved into a unique sandbox through continuous free updates and expansions since its 2018 launch. Survive and gather resources to travel between planets, or relax in a Creative-esque mode with no limitations. This game also serves as a great alternative to Starfield.
Dragon Quest Builders 2
This spinoff from the Dragon Quest series introduces up to four-player co-op in its sandbox world. Engage in hack-and-slash combat, build fortresses, and participate in various management sim activities, all wrapped in a charming and adorable art style. Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a building RPG well worth your time.
LEGO Worlds
Unlike many recent LEGO games, LEGO Worlds is a full sandbox made entirely of LEGO bricks. Collect various items and decorations across the procedurally-generated map and use them to create your own space. Modify the landscape with terraforming tools or construct your own builds and designs using the "brick by brick editor".
What do you think of our top picks? Have we missed any? Let us know in the comments or vote for your favorite in the poll above.
Next, check out how to play Minecraft for free to start playing, or dive into our guide to the best survival games for more like this.