Can’t get enough of building your own little world in Minecraft, either in creative mode or on the run from Creepers? It’s not the only game that can scratch that itch, you know. There are plenty of games like Minecraft on Xbox, from space-based crafting to more down-to-earth Lego shenanigans.
That’s why we’ve rounded them all up right here. But be warned: you can lose hours and hours playing some of these. We never get tired of diving back into Subnautica, expanding our deep sea base just a little bit every time, and some players’ No Man’s Sky creations are just mind blowing. In short, if you’ve got a creative streak you’ll love to lose yourself in any of these games. Read on to see our picks of the best games like Minecraft on Xbox.
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1. Terraria
- Available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S (also on Game Pass)
Terraria looks like 2D Minecraft, and in a lot of ways it is. But it has a character all its own, enemies who often barely give you room to breathe and strong RPG elements, adding a dungeon-crawler flavour. Plus there’s some absolutely silly crossover content including a collaboration with Don’t Starve. If pixel art is your thing, this really is one of the best Xbox games like Minecraft – and you’re going to love it.
Read our review of Terraria
Buy Terraria on Amazon
2. Lego Fortnite
- Available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S (free to play)
Is Lego Fortnite everything Minecraft is, but with Lego? Not quite: it isn’t quite as deep as Minecraft, and right now it does impose build limits. But, playable within Fortnite itself, it’s an absolute treat for Minecraft and Lego fans alike. Putting your studded base come together is a real joy, as is watching the main game’s skins and characters translated to this blocky world. Get a few friends involved and you won’t want to leave.
3. Slime Rancher 2
- Available on Xbox Series X|S (also on Game Pass)
Currently in Game Preview, Slime Rancher 2 has a focus on farming but, especially with the latest update, you can craft a wealth of gadgets to make your job easier. Raise the most adorable slimes, including one which looks like a raccoon, feed them, make sure nothing else eats them and generally make your farm your own. It’s one of the best games like Minecraft on Xbox – but with the addition of slimes you can’t help but love. What’s not to like?
4. No Man’s Sky
- Available on Xbox and Xbox Series X/S (also on Game Pass)
At launch, No Man’s Sky had very little in common with Minecraft. But in the five years since it was released, developer Hello Games has added so, so much content. You can purchase starships, adopt pets and build your own ridiculously elaborate base. You’re not restricted to one planet either, you can set up shop anywhere you like. And, thanks to No Man’s Sky multiplayer, you can share your stellar creations.
5. Stardew Valley
- Available on Xbox and Xbox Series X|S (also on Game Pass)
Stardew Valley is a tale of farming, friendship and more farming. More so than in Minecraft, time management can be critical, especially when you’re in danger of collapsing due to exhaustion. But just sitting back, or fishing, in the wake of a successful harvest, will give you a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Read our Stardew Valley review
6. Subnautica
- Available on Xbox and Xbox Series X|S
Subnautica is a tad more story-focused than Minecraft. But whether you’re playing it safe and paddling around the shallows or plunging into the game’s deep zones, its base-building never gets old. And while it does have a creative mode, it’s more fun to play it ‘normally’ since, in order to gather the resources you need, you’re forced to head into danger. Were you almost eaten by a giant leviathan? Absolutely, but your base has never been snazzier.
Buy Subnautica on Amazon
