With Minecraft: Java Edition getting a big rendering upgrade with Vulkan, it was time for the system requirements to get adjusted.
The game is now 17+ years old, and their previous recommendations were based on older graphics tech – but you will need a better system to run the game going forwards.
Want to get Minecraft: Java Edition with controller support on SteamOS? Check out our guide!
Mojang have announced that the change applies from July 21st:
Still pretty lean compared with most modern games, and Minecraft (especially with some mods) can really require a stronger system.
They won’t stop you trying to play on older systems, but they’re no longer supporting them.
And if your system doesn’t support Vulkan, the next release might not actually run.
The good thing about Minecraft is that you can download any of the releases quite easily – so you’re not going to be stuck with nothing.
You can just continue to run the version you’re currently on.
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**📚 Original Source:**
[Minecraft: Java Edition system requirements get bumped up ahead of Vulkan support](https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2026/07/minecraft-java-edition-system-requirements-get-bumped-up-ahead-of-vulkan-support/)
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