Overview
From bedroom to billions. Mojang formed around Minecraft’s explosive growth—what began as Notch’s solo project needed a company to handle its success. The Swedish studio expanded cautiously, maintaining Minecraft while attempting new projects. Microsoft’s 2014 acquisition for $2.5 billion validated indie gaming’s commercial potential while raising questions about creative independence under corporate ownership.
Fast facts
- Founded: 2009.
- Founder: Markus Persson.
- Location: Stockholm, Sweden.
- Acquired: Microsoft ($2.5B, 2014).
Minecraft growth
| Milestone | Date |
|---|
| Alpha release | June 2010 |
| 1 million sales | January 2011 |
| Full release | November 2011 |
| 100 million sales | 2016 |
| 300 million sales | 2023 |
Other projects
| Title | Status |
|---|
| Scrolls | Released, discontinued |
| 0x10c | Cancelled |
| Minecraft Dungeons | Released 2020 |
| Minecraft Legends | Released 2023 |
Microsoft acquisition
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|
| Price | $2.5 billion |
| Date | September 2014 |
| Departures | Notch, others |
| Independence | Maintained initially |
Post-acquisition
| Change | Status |
|---|
| Bedrock Edition | Cross-platform version |
| Marketplace | Monetisation added |
| Education Edition | School licensing |
| Update schedule | Regular content |
Cultural stewardship
| Responsibility | Execution |
|---|
| Brand management | Consistent identity |
| Community relations | Active engagement |
| Content updates | Continuous development |
| Spin-offs | Expanded universe |
See also