Minecraft welcomes five-player, cross-platform multiplayer

Microsoft has announced one of the most significant updates ever to be released for Minecraft.

Version 0.12.1 will allow up to five players to co-op in a single game provided they are on the same network. Furthermore, the functionality is cross-platform, allowing players of both the Windows 10 beta version and Pocket Editions to join up.

For those playing exclusively on Windows 10, five players will also be able to co-op online, freeing the game from its same-network restriction.

This is also the biggest update for Minecraft: Pocket Edition to date, bringing a host of highly-requested catch-up features for mobile players,” Microsoft said.

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.”