‘Minecraft’ will come to life in the UK and USA as part of theme park deal

Best-selling video game ‘Minecraft’ is to become a real-life destination as part of a multi-million pound deal between theme park operator Merlin Entertainments and video game developer Mojang Studios.

Merlin said it had struck an initial £85 million ($107.5 million) deal with the Swedish company to create play-based attractions at existing parks in the UK and US in 2026 and 2027.

It then plans to expand the concept into hospitality, retail and restaurants, as well as a ride based on the popular 3D sandbox game, and then expand it globally.

Merlin Entertainments CEO Scott O’Neil called the deal “a significant milestone.”

“’Minecraft’ is the best-selling video game of all time, and this world-first game will allow fans to experience the excitement and creativity of the game in real life at theme parks and city center attractions in leading tourist destinations,” he added.

Kayleen Walters, vice president of game franchise development for Microsoft, which acquired Mojang in 2014, called it an “incredibly exciting step” that will help expand the game’s appeal.

Also read

Crisis-hit Thyssenkrupp recorded another annual loss

“Minecraft” is the best-selling video game of all time, with more than 140 million players every month.

A live-action movie will be released next year netflix also announced plans for an animated series.

Merlin operates a number of leading theme parks and attractions, including Legoland, Peppa Pig Theme Park and Madame Tussauds wax museum.

Source: AFP