One element of Minecraft that has added to its popularity, is its multiplayer function. The ability to play with friends and family and share experiences across realms, has been hugely well-received. But one of the questions that crop up repeatedly is around game chat, and whether or not it's possible for players in different locations to communicate, either by voice chat, or even via text.
We'll have a look at what you can and can't do, and see just how much Minecraft allows you to interact.
Does Minecraft have game chat?
As far as voice chat is concerned, Minecraft doesn't actually offer an in-game option. It's unclear exactly why this is the case. But Minecraft in multiplayer does allow in-game text chat, to allow for greater collaboration and cooperation. Text chat functionality is very easily accessed, whichever platform you are using, with a simple press of a button.
But that's not the end of the story. If you want to be able to enjoy voice chat with friends, there are some workarounds that you can consider, so that you can communicate even more easily with your friends. Let's take a look at what you can do now.
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How to use voice chat on PS4, Xbox and PC
Regardless of which platform you are using, there are options that will allow you to enjoy voice chat while playing Minecraft. There are a variety of approaches you can take, but generally, it will involve using a separate app or a game modification.
There are a lot of different options, but something such as Discord is an example. Programs such as this will offer a voice channel which you can use alongside Minecraft. You can then communicate in real-time with your friends whilst playing. This has the added benefit of allowing you to communicate across platforms. So even if you are on different consoles, you can still chat. If you're all using the same platform, then there are some specific tools you can utilise. We'll look at those next.
Xbox and Windows PC
Because both these platforms are owned and operated by Microsoft, the big benefit is that they can use the same programs. In this case, you can use Xbox Party Chat, whether you are on an Xbox or on your PC. To start a party on your Xbox:
- Press the Xbox button to open the guide, and then select Parties & chats > Start a party.
- Select Invite more.
- Choose the friends you want to invite.
- Select Invite selected people.
If you're using a PC, you need to download the Xbox Game Bar for your computer. We have a bit more guidance on that here.
Minecraft PS4
If you want to start a chat on your PS4, you need to do the following:
- From the PS4 home screen, press up to reach the function screen > Party > Start Party.
- Select Create Group or select an existing group from the dropdown list to join.
- Choose your group name, select the privacy settings and Add Players to invite friends to join your party.
This will allow you and your friends on PlayStation to play Minecraft together, while also being able to enjoy voice interaction.
And there you have it. A few different ways you can overcome Minecraft's lack of voice chat, and connect with you friends. The options we've mentioned cover you whether you are all on the same platform, or trying to play on different devices.
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