How to Change Minecraft Version
Last updated: Mar 31, 2025 • 5 min readOne of the best things that gamers love the most about the Minecraft world is the thousands of customization options that this game offers.
Lots of new features, mods, servers and worlds are waiting for players all over the world.
Even if this game has been around well over a decade now, its popularity doesn’t seem to stop.
So, if you are one of those users that take the Minecraft experience one step beyond, then you’ll for sure want to know how to change the version of Minecraft.
Worry not - in this new article on our site, we are going to provide you with the information you are looking for about:
- How to change Minecraft version;
- Things you need to know before you change the version of the game;
- How to make the best out of different world versions.
Reasons to Switch Between Minecraft Versions
Playing Minecraft Java Edition on your PC often limits the way you enjoy the features of the game.
Naturally, the client version is set by default to run the latest version of Minecraft, which might seem like a wise decision.
So, why would someone want to play older versions of this game?
Well, these are one of the most common reasons to play a different or an older version:
- Using a mod on a server: some newer versions don’t grant access to older maps where using any mod if possible;
- Exploring older worlds: current worlds can be accessed by playing the most current version but if, for example, you want to play in some old maps, you need to play in earlier versions;
- Skipping major updates: if you want to create a server that’s not affected by Minecraft’s updates, doing so in an older version will help you preserve the integrity of the maps while avoiding update problems related to a possible beta version of the game.
Pro Tip
There are many ways to improve your gaming experience by setting up the Minecraft menu.
For example, putting a hit box on your adversaries will help you to save time killing them. Turn On Hitboxes in Minecraft and unleash this games’ full power!
What to Know Before You Change Versions of Minecraft
Changing the version of the game won’t take you more than a few minutes.
In any case, before you start to create a world, new maps, or use a beta Minecraft version, it’s essential to take into account a few things.
- Game files and profile name: the new launcher of Minecraft allows you to create a new profile where you can set the version of the game you want to run;
- Game directory: this is where all the created data files of the game are stored - changing the game directory is a great way to control your maps and worlds info;
- Minecraft Launcher: all the changes you make to a Minecraft version take place in the installation launcher menu. You can download and save the new launcher by looking for it on your web browser or by going to Mojang’s site by clicking here.
Knowing all these concepts is crucial to playing the Minecraft version you need.
Pro Tip
Keep in mind that some attributes, such as Minecraft Minecoins, can only be used in vanilla maps or versions.
If you want to have greater control of your game, then it’s recommended to play on a private server.
How to Change the Version of Minecraft
Now that you know the basics about changing the Minecraft version, it’s time to get to it.
Following these short steps will save you some of your precious time, so let’s do it!
Read Also
Tired of those annoying dropped items slowing down your servers? If so, read the article we wrote so you can learn how to Clear Dropped Items in Minecraft!
Step 1: Open the Minecraft Launcher
First, open the Minecraft Launcher.
Naturally, you can only do this from a computer, so this step is pretty straightforward.
Step 2: Create a New Installation
Then, on the top menu, select “Configurations” and press “New” right away.
By default, the version of Minecraft you play in is the most recent one - we are about to change that.
Step 3: Choose the Desired Version You Want to Play
Here, you’ll be able to create a new configuration.
Click “Version” to choose the desired version you want to play in the drop-down menu that appears on the screen.
Step 4: Click “Create” and Proceed
Once you have selected the version in this dropdown menu, just click on “Create” at the bottom right of the screen.
Finally, just click “Play” and enjoy the version you wanted!
That’s how you change the Minecraft version.
In any case, you can perform more advanced configurations by creating new profiles or changing the game directory at your will.
If this article was useful for you, don’t forget to check the other pieces of content we’ve written in Hypenoon!
How To Change Minecraft Version FAQ
Can I Use a Newer Version of the Game in Minecraft?
Yes - you can always go back from an old version to a newer version, so don’t worry.
Can I Use Older Versions on Console Bedrock Edition?
No. Console users cannot change the game version since they only have the default Bedrock Edition available and not the Java Edition.