Are there servers that support cross-platform play for different versions of Minecraft, such as Java and Bedrock Editions?

Under the given circumstances, with one player using a PC with Windows and Minecraft Java Edition, and another using an iPad with Minecraft PE (Bedrock), and a friend using a Nintendo with Minecraft Nintendo Switch Edition (Bedrock), the search for an online server for playing together becomes crucial. Considering the costly and unprofitable nature of buying a realm subscription, the need for alternative cross-platform play options arises.

The primary question is whether there are servers available that enable gameplay between Nintendo and PC platforms. Additionally, in the absence of an "add" button to input the server IP, how can a Nintendo player connect to the server?

There are servers that support cross-platform gameplay for different versions of Minecraft, such as Java and Bedrock Editions. These servers typically utilize specialized server software like "BungeeCord" or "Waterfall" to enable players from various Minecraft editions to connect and play together seamlessly.

In the scenario provided, where one player uses a PC with Windows and Minecraft Java Edition, another uses an iPad with Minecraft PE (Bedrock), and a friend uses a Nintendo Switch with Minecraft Nintendo Switch Edition (Bedrock), finding a suitable cross-platform server becomes essential for multiplayer gaming.

For the Nintendo player, connecting to a cross-platform server can be achieved by first linking a Microsoft account in the Minecraft game settings on the Nintendo Switch. Once the account is linked, the player can join the cross-platform server through the Friends tab in the game menu.

It's important to note that not all servers support cross-platform play, so players should seek out servers explicitly advertised as compatible with multiple Minecraft editions. Additionally, reaching out to the server administrators or community for guidance on compatibility and connection methods before attempting to join is advisable.

I can tell you that there are servers available for the Java-Bedrock cross-platform game. However, due to the difference in protocols, providing a comfortable gaming experience for Bedrock is quite challenging.

But even on such servers, it's not possible to connect with all versions of Minecraft you have. For instance, Minecraft for Nintendo Switch can be played either on standard servers available from the game menu or via Xbox Live. Entering the address of an arbitrary server is not an option.


Servers for the Java-Bedrock cross-platform game exist. However, due to the difference in protocols, it is very difficult to provide a comfortable game for Bedrock.

But even on such servers, you will not be able to make friends with all the versions of Minecraft that you have — Minecraft for Nintendo Switch can be played either on standard servers available from the game menu, or via Xbox Live. You will not be able to enter the address of an arbitrary server.

Yes, there is.

To achieve this, a multitude of servers are available for you to enjoy.)

There is an excellent GeyserMC plugin designed specifically for this purpose.

(You might experience some lag, but everything functioned perfectly for me).

One popular solution is the "Minecraft Forge" mod, which allows players to connect to servers using the Java Edition. Another option is the "PocketMine" server software, designed specifically for Bedrock Editions. As for connecting to a server on the Nintendo Switch, players can use the "Minecraft PE" app to join servers, but may need to enable "Third-party servers" in the game's settings.