How have MineCraft audiences grown?

Mods: Mods were the original USP of minecraft, allowing users to create their own parts of the game and modify the game play. This was unique in gaming as games were almost uniquely producer created, and user played. The exploitation of web 2.0 has allowed for a democracy of the game that was unique in the industry. 

Minecon: A gaming convention that can be found all around the world and works in popularising the game. 

Multi-platform: Due to Minecraft being made using java coding, this allows for it to be available on multi-platforms- opening up new markets of profitability and increased exposure to new and existing audiences as they can play on many devices. 

Social media: Social media has allowed for MineCraft to become the big game that it is today as early advertising was done through social media such as YouTube. Fans would become prosumers by creating content of them playing MineCraft and uploading it on Youtube which increased the game exposure at no cost to Mojang. 

PEGI 7: Minecraft is regarded as a family friendly game. Initial Minecraft was rated PEGI 7 but was classed higher when Minecraft stories was introduced because narrative and dialogue were added. By having the game at a low age rating, this allows for more players to play the game allowing for a bigger fan base and adding to the success of the game.

Story Mode/ Realms/ creative: Introduction of Minecraft Realms in 2013 tried to attract and encourage the audience to use the game on dedicated servers and increase subscription revenues. It tried to give producers more control over distribution and circulation of the game as professional amateur consumers were creating hacks.

Microsoft: Microsoft bought Minecraft from Mojang in 2014 for $2.5 billion. The company used their influence to collaborate with game developers such as Telltale games which helped create story mode which allowed for the game to expand its audience. When Perrson owned Minecraft, he said he wouldn't develop a VR version of the game with Oculus as it was owned by Facebook who weren't owned by 'Grassroot' game developers. When Microsoft bought Minecraft, they then did a deal with Oculus showing how the ownership affected decisions made for the game.

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