Nintendo and Microsoft play nice in new ‘Minecraft’ cross-play trailer, leaves Sony out of it

The words “Survive Together” appear alongside the logos of Microsoft Xbox and Nintendo Switch in a new trailer promoting cross-platform play for Minecraft on the two consoles. It seems jarring at first but a rather fitting image of how playing nice works not just for the manufacturers and developers but for the gamers, too. The trailer shows two players using their respective consoles to play Minecraft. And Sony’s refusal to be part of this collaboration is highlighted even more. 

Sony continues to keep everything close to its own chest. According to Polygon, one former Sony executive said the company’s refusal to allow cross-platform gaming comes down to not wanting items bought on other platforms to be used on the PlayStation 4. And if they continue down this path, they run the risk of being left behind by competition. Here’s to hoping they change their minds in the future.

‘Minecraft’ for the Nintendo Switch gets cross-play support on June 21st

It’s been long overdue but it’s finally arriving next month. The universal Minecraft Bedrock Engine is coming to the game’s Nintendo Switch version on June 21^st. What this means is you get cross-platform play between the Switch and the PC, Xbox One, and mobile versions of the game. This was announced back at E3 last year and landed on the other platforms last September. It was initially promised for a winter release but as you can see that got pushed way back with this June release date.

This updated version of Minecraft brings with it support for Nintendo’s new online service for the Switch launching later this year. Coinciding with the update, a physical version of Minecraft for the Switch will be released for US$29.99.

Source: The Verge

Holiday tech gifts for everyone on your list

Are you ready for Christmas? It's officially crunch time now with almost a week left of holiday shopping. It's probably too late to get in any online shopping without paying a premium in shipping, so I guess I'll see you at the mall? But you're still stuck on what to get? Don't panic. It's last minute but if you're like me, some of the best ideas come to mind when I'm under stress. So, here are some last minute tech gift ideas for everyone on your list! 

Click to read more ...

Microsoft hosting Hour of Code tutorials focusing on Minecraft

From December 4 to 8, Microsoft is supporting educators, students and nonprofits to drive awareness for Computer Science Education Week and Hour of Code, a global call to action to spend an hour learning the basics of coding.

To get students coding, Microsoft has released a new Minecraft tutorial called Hero’s Journey and starting on December 4, Microsoft Stores across the country will host free coding workshops, giving kids a chance to use fun, interactive coding to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something of their own.

Click to read more ...