Minecraft Players Baffled by Game Title Change in iOS App Store

Minecraft is currently undergoing significant changes. Mojang Studios, the developers behind the beloved game, have recently announced a complete overhaul of their update system, prioritizing smaller and more frequent updates throughout the year rather than a single major release. However, another alteration that has left many players puzzled is the recent name change of the game on the iOS App Store.

A Reddit user, u/Khaotikrypt, shared a screenshot of the App Store page highlighting the new name and sought input from the gaming community. The game has been rebranded to “Minecraft: Play with Friends.”

What’s the point of this exactly? I don’t think anyone was like “yeah Minecraft should get a name change” by u/khaotikrypt in Minecraft

Commenting on this post, u/Charlie43229 suggested that this name alteration could be motivated by search engine optimization (SEO) reasons. For those unfamiliar, SEO involves incorporating specific keywords or phrases that assist search engines like Google in delivering relevant results.

Comment by u/khaotikrypt from discussion in Minecraft

However, u/R2-T4 countered this notion, arguing that changing the name for SEO purposes seems unwise, given that Minecraft is one of the most popular games in history. They added that nobody is likely searching specifically for a game where players build together with friends, making this supposed SEO adjustment ineffective.

Comment by u/khaotikrypt from discussion in Minecraft

In support of SEO as a potential factor, u/BadVinegar noted that the name change might aid search visibility for mobile users who are unsure of which game to play with friends, possibly directing them to Minecraft. Meanwhile, u/beeurd disagreed, claiming that modern SEO techniques don’t necessitate such precise terminology for effective results, as they can showcase options when users search for related terms.

Reddit reacts to the name change (Image via Reddit/Khaotikrypt)

u/Charlie43229 reiterated that it seems imprudent for Microsoft to alter the title of the best-selling video game of all time. Conversely, u/woalk argued that as long as the name change contributes to just one additional download, it wouldn’t negatively affect the game.

Minecraft is undergoing many changes

Minecraft Live 2024 will be on September 29 (Image via Mojang Studios)

Minecraft is experiencing a multitude of changes and events, from the premiere of the movie trailer to exciting new updates. The teaser trailer significantly boosted interest in the game, although the community had mixed feelings, particularly regarding the cast and the inclusion of various mobs.

Excitingly, Mojang Studios has announced that Minecraft Live will now occur twice a year, bringing with it smaller yet more frequent updates. The inaugural Minecraft Live event is scheduled for September 28 and promises to showcase some intriguing new content.

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