How to add friends in Minecraft Java (Image via Mojang Studios) Minecraft has been rising in popularity for over 15 years with millions of players worldwide.

Play with friends using a server in Minecraft's Java Edition (Image via Mojang) However, to play multiplayer without a Realm subscription, you need to join a public server in the game.

You can add friends in "Minecraft" through their Microsoft account's gamertag, regardless of which platform they use to play the game.

Want to make a Minecraft server so you can play with your friends? It's easier than you'd think, thanks to numerous options that allow tons of flexibility.