Minecraft For Dummies

Don't be a Minecraft tourist – get expert tips and advice in this full-color primer

Minecraft For Dummies is the complete guide to playing within the Minecraft world. With easy-to-follow guidance from a team of Minecraft experts, you'll develop programming and engineering skills as you build amazing creations using in-game blocks and mechanical devices. Whether you prefer the PC, console, or portable platform, this helpful guide will walk you through the process of setting up and beginning gameplay, and engage with other users from all around the globe. With this trusty guidebook in hand, you'll navigate the infinite world of Minecraft with confidence, skills, and a storehouse of expert advice.

Minecraft is the sandbox construction game that has become a mainstream phenomenon with over a hundred million players. A virtually infinite world and versatile style of play offer endless possibilities for both the hardcore gamer and the total noob, and Minecraft For Dummies shows you everything you need to know before you break your first block.

• Choose your platform, download the game, and play in all three modes
• Gather resources, place and break blocks, and use circuits and logic gates
• Defend your creations against spiders, skeletons, zombies, and the Creeper
• Travel across the biomes and defeat the enderdragon to win the game

Whether you play to win or just like to explore, there is a style of Minecraft that will spark your imagination. Create or destroy, make war or peace, attack or defend – the game is whatever you want it to be. If you're ready to leave your mark on this digital universe, Minecraft For Dummies is the primer you need to get up to speed.

Jesse Stay is a social media technologist consultant and developer.

Thomas Stay, Jesse's 12-year-old son, eats, drinks and breathes Minecraft.

Jacob Cordeiro won an award for his game entry in the 2011 Scholastic Art and Writing competition.