A full six years after Microsoft acquired Mojang: Java Edition is distinct from the Windows 10 / Bedrock version; if you want to mod Minecraft, the former is still the best way to play Minecraft, and the pre-release " snapshot" (essentially a beta version of the upcoming content), the only way to access it. However, things are finally about to change with the announcement that in 2021, a Microsoft account will be required to play Java Edition.

Mojang mentions in the announcement the positive changes that the new account system will bring, including two-factor authentication, chat and invite blocking, and improved parental controls Mojang also assures that all the benefits of Java will not go away: Mods and skins can continue to be created and used, and you can still play with other Java versions. Nevertheless, this account change will not introduce online play between players of the Java and Bedrock versions.

Existing Java users will have to be "forced" to migrate in early 2021. This will be done in batches and they will receive a free cloak once the migration is complete; for new Java users, they will be prompted to create a Microsoft account instead of a Mojang account starting some time this month. The process does not appear to be too complicated, and this FAQ addresses most aspects of the transition.

Watch the announcement video below to see what the free cloak looks like.