One of the unique features of Minecraft is the ability to modify the game using code. This is something that kids can learn when they take a Minecraft coding course with FunTech. But just what coding language does Minecraft use?
The core coding language that Minecraft uses is Java. This could be familiar to you if have ever seen the steaming coffee cup logo pop up on your computer, asking for your permission to install an update. Many programs on your computer use Java in order to run, sometimes in conjunction with other languages.
But Java isn’t the only coding language used by Minecraft.
Initially, Minecraft was developed using Java, but over the years a few key additions and tweaks have been made to the code. As an example, the Bedrock version of Minecraft was initially coded in C++, but it has been adapted in several other languages to work on other platforms, such as iOS.
In addition, Minecraft Education Edition’s Hour of Code 2020 edition uses block-based or Python code to bring two villages together. Understanding what coding language Minecraft uses can be helpful for players who want to modify the game or create their own Minecraft mods – including children who take the FunTech coding courses.
The background to Minecraft’s coding language
Minecraft was originally written in Java, which is a popular programming language used for developing desktop, web, and mobile applications. Java is renowned for its security, portability, and cross-platform compatibility.
However, Minecraft has also been adapted to work on other platforms, such as iOS, Android, and Xbox. To help enable this, the game’s developers have rewritten it in other programming languages, such as C++ and Python.
- Java Edition: Java
- Bedrock Edition: C++
- Education Edition: Block-based or Python code
More about the Java programming language
As the core programming language of Minecraft, most kids will become familiar with the Java name once they start playing the game. If kids want to learn to code, then having a basic understanding of what Java is and how it works will help before they begin a lesson.
Java is an object-oriented programming language designed to have as few an implementation dependencies as possible. Because it’s compiled into bytecode, it can run on any Java Virtual Machine (JVM), making it a platform independent programming language.
We find kids can quickly adapt and start learning it due to the simplicity, readability, and ease of use.
Why did the developers of Minecraft choose to use Java as the coding language?
The inventor of Minecraft Markus Persson, aka “Notch” is said to have chosen Java as it was easy for him to use, and would work across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. The simplicity lent itself very well to developing Minecraft’s gameplay mechanics and user interface.
How many lines of code are used in Minecraft?
Some estimates state that Minecraft has around 1.8 million lines of code. However, this number will vary depending on how the lines of code have been counted. Other sources we found claim that the latest version of Minecraft has between 200,000 to 500,000 lines of code.
We did find one source who had decompiled Minecraft’s code found 285,000 lines of code. We can’t confirm which version that was, and when though – here’s our full investigation!
Why choose FunTech’s online Minecraft coding classes?
We truly believe we are very different to other online learning platforms. We have been in the business of teaching tech since the 1990s, and have evolved into one of the most well-respected companies in the UK.
We offer…
- A higher quality of tuition: our tutors and quality of delivery are no different to how they would be if your kid was in one of our physical summer camp locations.
- A better way of learning: our tutors can see your child’s screen at all times, which compared to a physical classroom environment, offers far better tutoring feedback and education.
- A head start in coding: your child can get ahead with essential coding skills which could help them not only with future schooling, but also a potential career in technology and video game design.
Want to get started?
To ask any questions, or to get started, please contact us today. Our friendly team are available to give advice on what course is best for your child, and how to get started.
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