Minecraft is one of those games that everyone knows, whether directly or indirectly. In fact, it’s been around for a long time: version 1.0 was released in 2011, and it has since received numerous updates adding new content. Mojang has now announced an update to the system requirements for its game. The reason? The switch to a new API: Vulkan. These new requirements better reflect the demands of the game as it stands today!
Minecraft Java Edition: System Requirements Update!
16 GB for the recommended configuration!Â
With the upcoming phase-out of the OpenGL API, Mojang has decided to update the minimum and recommended system requirements for running the game. So, to play at 1080p at 30 FPS, the studio now recommends 8 GB of RAM with a dedicated GPU, or 12 GB if you have an iGPU. On the CPU side, the recommended options include a Core i3 10100, a Ryzen 3 3100, a Snapdragon X, or an Apple M1 chip. For graphics, the requirements specify a Vulkan 1.3-compatible GPU with at least 2 GB of VRAM. The GTX 950, RX 460, Arc A310, or the iGPU found in a Core i5 6400 are listed as the minimum requirements.
As for the recommended configuration, it calls for 16 GB of RAM and either a Core i5 12400 or a Ryzen 5 5600. As for graphics, the RTX 2060, RX 5600 XT, Arc A580, or Apple M2 Pro are listed. In all cases, you’ll need at least 6 GB of VRAM.
Please note, however: the 16 GB recommendation does not refer to the memory used by the game alone. It refers to the total memory the system will need to run properly: the game, the launcher, the operating system, and background tasks. Also, keep in mind that until now, the game only required 4 GB.
A transition to a new API?Â
Until now, Minecraft Java Edition has run on OpenGL, but things are about to change with the transition to Vulkan. Mojang is waiting for the game to reach a satisfactory level of performance and stability before switching from one to the other. Note that it’s already possible to select Vulkan rendering starting with version 26.2 of the game. This transition also paves the way for the arrival of Vibrant Visuals, which will add new, more convincing visual effects, including improved lighting and shadows, water reflections, and volumetric effects.