Under default settings, Minecraft is expected not to run on a Chromebook. In fact, the system requirements of the game say that it only works for Mac, Windows, as well as Linux operating systems.
It is because Chromebooks make use of a web browser, the Chrome OS of Google.
Such computers are not really intended for gaming. However, it has to be noted that it is still possible to play this well-renowned video game – this is by having to “root” the device in order to access the Linux kernel.
Some people were actually successful in installing an array of Linux apps on their Chromebooks, specifically by using the terminal.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to install the Minecraft on your Chromebook. Read on.
Enable Linux and Open the Terminal
Step 1
Head on over to the Settings.
Step 2
Next, you need to enable Linux. The Linux settings can be spotted right under the Google Play Store Settings. To help you in locating it, the description reads like this: “Run Linux tools, editors, and IDEs on your Chromebook.” The setting up might eat up a few minutes of your time.
Step 3
You will then need to open the Terminal which can be spotted between your apps.
Do These Before Downloading
Before you download the Minecraft from the official website of the game, it is a necessity to perform these actions first.
- In setting the timezone up, you have to type this on the terminal: sudo dpkg-reconfigure tzdata
- The next action you need to do is to have the system updated. This is by typing the following text: sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade
- The third is to have the apt-file installed on your Chromebook. Type the following text: sudo apt-get install openjdk-8-jdk
Downloading the Minecraft Game
When things are all set, it is now time to download the Minecraft by heading on over to the official Minecraft Alternative Downloads page.
Step 1:
Type minecraft.net on your browser.
Step 2
Next, click the “Trial & Download” option at the right part of the page. This button is right under the “Education” and at the top of the “Help” button.
Step 3
When you are already on the page, you need to locate the “Linux” link right under the “Desktops” category.
As soon as the page has loaded, you should now see this heading of the page: “Alternative Download Options for Minecraft: Java Edition.”
Note: It is important to note that you have to download the Minecraft for Linux/Debian named the Minecraft.deb. You have to click the link at the right part of the page.
Now, you will see the progress of the download at the lower right part of the screen. The file size is at 39.9 MB. You have to wait for a few seconds. You will get the message “Download Complete” if you have succeeded in downloading the file.
Installing Minecraft
Step 1
Go to your Files
When done with the download, head on over to your files. It is worth mentioning that you need to transfer the file from Downloads to Linux files. You can find it just above the Play Store files.
Step 2
As soon as the file is moved, you will then have to right-click on it.
You will then be able to see the “Install with Linux.” The Linux installer will then update you on the progress on the installation. It may again take a few seconds/minutes of your time.
You will then be prompted with this message: “Installation complete: App is available in your terminal. There may also be an icon in your Launcher.”
Step 3
Look for the Odd Penguin Logo
Yes, it is a bit weird, but you can find the game between your apps with that odd penguin logo. Note that you cannot be able to change this logo, but, rest assured that you will be able to successfully launch and enjoy your much-loved Minecraft game on your Chromebook.
Once launched, you will see the “Play Demo” button right below the page. You will also see a dropdown button which you need to click so that you will be able to pick from the option available on the list.
As soon as you have picked an option, you will see it being unpacked.
Voila, you can then start playing the game. Explore and let your creativity and imagination help you out in creating your own world.
Alternative Solution
Download Minecraft.jar from minecraft.net and then to install Java, using the following code as root.
echo oracle-java8-installer shared/accepted-oracle-license-v1-1
select true | /usr/bin/debconf-set-selections
apt-get update && apt-get -y install software-properties-common
add-apt-repository ppa:webupd8team/java \ && apt-get update \
&& apt-get install -y oracle-java8-installer
java -jar Minecraft.jarList of Chromebooks Model That Have Tested for Running Minecraft
If your Chromebook model is not on the list, feel free to explore and give the steps above a try.
- Google Pixelbook
- Acer Chromebook 14 (CB3-431-C5FM)
- Acer Chromebook 15 (CB5-571-C09S)
- Acer R11 (CB5-132T-C32M)
- ASUS Chromebook Flip C302
- Lenovo N23
- Acer 11 (CB3-131-C3SZ)
Final Thoughts
See, despite the fact that Chromebooks naturally do not run Minecraft, there is still a slew of ways on how to make it possible. This guide is only among a wide array of guides that you can find on the web. You can even find some videos on YouTube, for example, that can provide you a step-by-step guide on how to successfully download and install the said game on your Chromebook.
Did you find this article helpful? Click the share button so other people, especially those who own a Chromebook and who love the game so much, will also be informed.
