The Missing Link: Grasping the Server Restrictions on Minecraft PS4

Feb. 3, 2022

Minecraft, the beloved sandbox game, has captivated players of all ages across various platforms. Among these platforms, Minecraft on the PlayStation 4 (PS4) offers a unique and immersive gameplay experience. However, players on the PS4 version of Minecraft may encounter certain restrictions when it comes to accessing servers and multiplayer features. In this article, we will delve into the server restrictions on Minecraft PS4 and provide insights to help players understand the limitations and workarounds.

1. Understanding Server Restrictions on Minecraft PS4

   Minecraft on the PS4 has some limitations compared to other platforms, particularly in terms of server accessibility. Unlike the Java Edition or the Bedrock Edition on other platforms, the PS4 edition does not offer the same level of freedom when it comes to connecting to external servers. The PS4 edition primarily focuses on local multiplayer and offers limited support for external servers.

2. PlayStation Plus Requirement for Multiplayer

   To access multiplayer features, including servers, on Minecraft PS4, players are required to have an active PlayStation Plus subscription. PlayStation Plus is a premium subscription service offered by Sony that provides access to online multiplayer, exclusive discounts, free games, and other benefits. Without a PlayStation Plus subscription, players will not be able to connect to external servers on Minecraft PS4.

3. Restricted Server Access

   Even with a PlayStation Plus subscription, the server access on Minecraft PS4 is limited compared to other editions. Unlike the Java or Bedrock editions, where players can easily join a wide range of servers, Minecraft PS4 has a more restricted server list. Players can only connect to official partner servers and featured servers approved by Mojang Studios.

4. Official Partner Servers and Featured Servers

   Minecraft PS4 offers a curated selection of official partner servers and featured servers that have been approved by Mojang Studios. These servers are pre-screened and meet certain criteria set by the game developers. While this restricts the number of available servers, it ensures a more secure and regulated multiplayer experience for PS4 players.

5. Discovering Official Partner Servers and Featured Servers

   To access official partner servers and featured servers on Minecraft PS4, players can navigate to the in-game server browser. From there, they can explore the available options, read descriptions, and join the approved servers. Official partner servers often offer unique gameplay experiences with custom game modes, minigames, and community events.

6. Creating Local Multiplayer Games

   In addition to server restrictions, Minecraft PS4 emphasizes local multiplayer. Players can create their own local multiplayer games and invite friends to join through split-screen or online sessions. This allows players to enjoy the game with their friends and family in a private and controlled environment.

7. Bedrock Edition Crossplay

   Minecraft PS4 uses the Bedrock Edition, which enables crossplay with other Bedrock-supported platforms such as Xbox, Windows 10, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. This means that while server access is limited on PS4, players can still join cross-platform multiplayer sessions and play with friends on other supported platforms.

8. Community Servers and Workarounds

   Although the options for connecting to external servers on Minecraft PS4 are limited, some players have found community-driven workarounds. These workarounds involve creating private communities or using LAN (Local Area Network) settings to connect with friends or other players within a restricted network environment.

Minecraft PS4 introduces server restrictions that limit the accessibility to external servers compared to other editions of the game. PlayStation Plus is required for multiplayer features, and players can only connect to official partner servers and featured servers approved by Mojang Studios. However, Minecraft PS4 still offers a captivating local multiplayer experience and crossplay with other Bedrock-supported platforms. While the server options may be limited, players can find enjoyment by creating private games, exploring official partner servers, and engaging with the Minecraft community. Embrace the unique features of Minecraft PS4 and make the most of the local multiplayer experience it provides.