Minecraft enthusiasts are in for a treat as the beloved game is set to transition from the digital realm to real-life theme park attractions. Mojang Studios, the developer behind Minecraft, has entered into a significant partnership with Merlin Entertainments, the operator of renowned theme parks such as Legoland and Madame Tussauds. This collaboration, valued at £85 million (approximately €102 million), was announced by Merlin and will see the creation of Minecraft-themed attractions in existing parks in the United States and the United Kingdom between 2026 and 2027.
Minecraft, developed by Swedish game designer Markus Persson and released in 2011, has become a global phenomenon. The game allows players to build structures in an open world using blocks and engage in combat with various monsters. Mojang Studios, founded by Persson, was acquired by Microsoft in 2014. The game’s immense popularity is underscored by its record-breaking sales; in October last year, Minecraft surpassed 300 million copies sold, solidifying its position as the best-selling video game of all time.
Merlin Entertainments, known for its expertise in creating immersive theme park experiences, will not only develop Minecraft-themed rides but also include game-based stores, food, and beverages. These attractions are designed to offer fans a comprehensive and interactive experience, allowing them to step into the block world of Minecraft. According to Scott O’Neil, CEO of Merlin Entertainments, “Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time, and this world-first will let fans experience its excitement and creativity in real life, in amusement parks and attractions in city centers of major tourist destinations”.
The long-term plan is to expand these Minecraft experiences to other global destinations, further enhancing the reach and impact of this collaboration. Kayleen Walters, Vice President of franchise development for gaming at Microsoft, emphasized the synergy between Mojang Studios and Merlin Entertainments, noting that while Mojang is expert in the digital realm of Minecraft, Merlin brings its expertise in creating world-class, location-based experiences.
This initiative is part of Merlin’s broader strategy to engage new audiences through innovative and captivating concepts. The company has a history of successful partnerships, including deals with Lego, Peppa Pig, and Sony Pictures Entertainment, which have led to the creation of themed attractions like the Jumanji experience at Chessington in the UK.
The upcoming Minecraft theme park attractions are anticipated to be a major draw, especially given the game’s vast and diverse community of 140 million monthly players. With additional projects such as a live-action Minecraft film and an animated series on the horizon, the excitement around these real-life Minecraft experiences is expected to be significant.
