You’ve got thirty minutes, a few mates online and no urge to pass the time gathering wood. Minecraft minigames are a good fit for that type of evening. The tricky bit is getting all your mates into the same lobby: even with the right address, a friend running Java and another running Bedrock cannot assume they can play together.
For this 2026 shortlist, we recommend Hypixel for Java variety, The Hive for Bedrock party games and CubeCraft for players wanting to try EggWars. The selections are based upon the games they offer and their official connection guidance, rather than a claim that one network offers better options in every regard.
Server addresses and versions at a glance
Connection information checked on 5 October 2026. Supported versions may change after Minecraft updates.
| Server | Edition and address | Version guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Hypixel | Java: mc.hypixel.net | 1.8.9 is a listed recommendation; check supported releases before selecting a newer client. |
| The Hive | Bedrock: Featured Servers, or geo.hivebedrock.cloud, port 19132 | Use the latest supported stable Bedrock release. Preview compatibility is not guaranteed. |
| CubeCraft | Java: play.cubecraft.net. Bedrock: select CubeCraft under Featured Servers. | The joining guide lists Java 1.21.8+ and Bedrock 1.21.120+. Only use a supported stable release. |
Java operates on Windows, macOS and Linux. Bedrock operates on consoles and mobile devices and is also available on Windows. Make certain that you identify the edition of Minecraft being run by all members of your group before sharing an address.
Hypixel: the Java pick for variety
If your group cannot agree on a single game, Hypixel is a logical starting point. It provides several competitive game types, including Bed Wars and SkyWars, and allows you to switch games between matches. Select it for competitive gameplay with friends who all possess a copy of Java Edition.
Add mc.hypixel.net to the server section of your Java edition. If you would like additional help setting up your connection to Hypixel, this guide to the Hypixel server IP address offers a more detailed walkthrough of the connection process. This is a hostname entry; you will not be required to locate a numeric IP.
Hypixel does not officially support Bedrock clients. Simply adding this address to a phone, console or Windows Bedrock version will not let you join. Hypixel’s official version guidance recommends 1.8.9 or a supported latest release. Additionally, verify individual game requirements; network access does not necessarily translate into each game supporting each client.
The Hive: an easy Bedrock starting point
The Hive suits a group with Bedrock installations on phones, consoles and Windows. Begin with Hide and Seek if some players are averse to combat: hiders disguise themselves as blocks while seekers attempt to discover them. DeathRun replaces combat with a trap-filled obstacle course. When ready for a team contest, try BedWars.
The simplest method is to use the featured-server tile. On devices that provide an Add Server option, use geo.hivebedrock.cloud and port 19132, as provided by The Hive’s official joining guide. Copying an outdated server listing may leave you searching in the wrong place.
Use a supported stable Bedrock release; Preview compatibility is not guaranteed. Should friends fail to show after establishing a connection, check your regions. The Hive uses separate regional locations and its /region command permits users to change regions so the group can meet.
CubeCraft: try it for EggWars
CubeCraft is worth considering if defending objectives as a team seems more appealing than dropping into yet another free-for-all. EggWars is a place to start, with SkyWars and Lucky Islands among the network’s other options. Available games vary depending upon edition; check your edition’s options before inviting friends to a specific playlist.
To connect on Java Edition, add play.cubecraft.net. To connect on Bedrock, open Featured Servers and select CubeCraft. CubeCraft’s newer joining instructions state Java 1.21.8 and above as well as Bedrock 1.21.120 and above as supported versions. Do not rely on snapshots or betas; only use supported public releases.
Just because CubeCraft has both editions does not mean a Java address will automatically allow Bedrock players to connect. Agree on an edition with your group before beginning any troubleshooting.
How to connect on Java and Bedrock
Java Edition
- Start the Minecraft Launcher and select a supported Java release. If you need a different version, create an alternative profile within Installations.
- Begin the game and navigate to Multiplayer, then Add Server.
- Name the entry and enter the server’s hostname into Server Address. Exclude
https://and webpage paths. - Click Done. Highlight the saved entry and click Join Server.
Bedrock Edition
Using your Microsoft account, log into Minecraft and select Play, then Servers. From there, choose The Hive or CubeCraft from the featured list. On Windows and mobile, use Add Server where available to input the hostname and port separately.
Console editions typically show only featured servers in the built-in menu. If there is no Add Server button, this isn’t an installation failure. Before adjusting any network settings, ensure you have any required console online subscription and that your account allows multiplayer.
Common connection errors and what to try
- Unknown host: ensure you spelled everything correctly. Remove any spaces and confirm that you entered a server’s hostname instead of a website URL. If it continues to occur, verify that other server addresses resolve properly.
- Outdated client or incompatible version: compare your current version with the server’s supported releases. Update Bedrock through your device’s store; verify you selected the correct Java profile within the launcher.
- Invalid session or not authenticated: close Minecraft and restart the launcher. If needed, sign out and back into your legitimate Minecraft account. Authentication outages may require you to wait until the issue is resolved.
- Timed out or unable to connect: refer to status announcements posted by the network, restart Minecraft and try another server. Stop large downloads or consider using Ethernet if your Wi-Fi connection is unstable.
- Multiplayer disabled: review Xbox/Microsoft privacy and family settings. Child accounts may require the family organiser to allow multiplayer.
Once connected, play a couple of rounds before deciding whether to stay. A group may enjoy defending beds but dislike racing through obstacles, or vice versa. Save your favourite servers according to edition and ensure everyone’s client is on a supported version before your next session together.
Last Updated: October 5, 2026
