New Minecraft games
Minecraft Dungeons II
The newest Minecraft game, released September 29, 2026. Instead of building, it's an action adventure through Minecraft-style worlds, for up to four players on the couch or online. It's also on Game Pass, so check whether they already have access.
Check priceMinecraft for Switch 2
A native Switch 2 version launching October 27, 2026, with improved Vibrant Visuals and an updated Super Mario Mash-Up pack. If they own the digital Switch version, they get a free upgrade until the end of January 2027, so don't buy it for them. If they own the physical Switch version and are moving to Switch 2, this is a real gift.
Check price SIBTG verdictGames like Minecraft
Pokémon Pokopia
A creative Pokémon game about building and shaping a world, released March 2026. A perfect next step for a Minecraft fan who also loves Pokémon. Rated E, with Users Interact and In-Game Purchases. The boxed version is a Game-Key Card, so it needs internet the first time.
Check priceTerraria
The other great sandbox: 2D instead of 3D, with more combat and bosses. Rated T for Blood and Gore and Cartoon Violence. It runs on PS5, Xbox Series and Switch 2 through backward compatibility. Our Terraria vs. Minecraft comparison explains the difference.
Check price SIBTG verdictDragon Quest Builders 2
A block-building adventure with a story, which suits kids who like building but want more direction than Minecraft gives them. Rated E10+.
Check priceStardew Valley
A cozy farming and life game for building fans who like a slower pace. Rated E10+; descriptors include Simulated Gambling and Use of Alcohol and Tobacco. The Switch 2 Edition is a free upgrade for Switch owners.
Check price SIBTG verdictDisney Dreamlight Valley
Life-sim building with Disney characters. Rated E, with Users Interact and In-Game Purchases.
Check priceOn PC, Hytale is in early access as of January 2026, for $20. There are no console versions yet.
Off-screen gifts
- LEGO Minecraft sets. LEGO's 2026 lineup includes Minecraft sets and tie-ins to the movie. A natural fit for kids who build on screen. See LEGO Minecraft
- Minecraft books and merch. Official guides, plush toys and clothing are widely available. See Minecraft books
- Store credit for skins and add-ons in the Minecraft Marketplace, if you're comfortable with in-game spending. See gift cards.
Something small for a stocking? See gamer stocking stuffers.
Notes for parents
- Minecraft is rated E10+, with Fantasy Violence, Users Interact and In-Game Purchases. Creative mode has no enemies. See ESRB ratings explained.
- Roblox isn't Minecraft. It's a separate platform rated T, with user-made content, chat and random-item purchases. It isn't on Switch or Switch 2. Our ages 9–12 guide covers the parental settings.
- LEGO Fortnite, a building mode inside Fortnite, is rated E10+ with Users Interact and In-Game Purchases, though Fortnite itself is rated T.
Back to the main gift guide.
Quick answers
Is there a new Minecraft game in 2026?
Yes. Minecraft Dungeons II came out September 29, 2026 on PC, Xbox Series, PS5, Switch and Switch 2. It's rated E10+ and supports up to four players together. A native Switch 2 version of Minecraft itself also launches October 27, 2026.
Do they need to buy Minecraft again for Switch 2?
Owners of the digital Switch version get a free upgrade to the Switch 2 version until the end of January 2027. There's no upgrade path for physical Switch copies, so a physical Switch owner moving to Switch 2 would need the new version.
Is Terraria OK for kids?
Terraria is rated T for Blood and Gore and Cartoon Violence. Many families consider it fine for older kids who love Minecraft, but check the rating details and decide for your family.
Is a Minecraft movie sequel coming?
Yes. A Minecraft Movie Squared is scheduled for July 23, 2027.
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