Netflix Developing ‘Minecraft’ Animated Series with Fresh Characters
Netflix is teaming up with Mojang Studios, the Swedish developer of the popular sandbox video game “Minecraft,” to create an animated series based on the game. The streaming giant has announced that the series will showcase an original storyline with new characters, offering a fresh perspective on the world of “Minecraft.”
The CG-animated series is being developed in collaboration with WildBrain, a Canadian studio known for its work on various animated projects for Netflix, including “Sonic Prime,” “Ninjago: Dragons Rising,” and “Carmen Sandiego.” WildBrain recently saw success with the revival of “Johnny Test” on Netflix in 2022, a show that originally aired on the WB and later on Cartoon Network. The studio has also worked on popular shows like “The Snoopy Show” and “Snoopy in Space” for Apple TV+ and “Fireman Sam” for the UK’s Channel 5.
“Minecraft” was first released by Mojang in 2011, offering players the ability to construct 3D worlds using colorful blocks in its distinctive pixelated style. The game has garnered a massive following, with over 140 million players engaging with it each month. The success of “Minecraft” has led to the creation of various spinoffs such as “Minecraft: Story Mode,” “Minecraft Earth,” “Minecraft Dungeons,” and “Minecraft Legends.”
In addition to the Netflix series, Mojang is also working on a movie adaptation of “Minecraft” in collaboration with Warner Bros. and Legendary. The film, set to premiere on April 4, 2025, boasts a star-studded cast including Jack Black, Jason Momoa, Danielle Brooks, and Emma Myers, with Jared Hess directing.
The announcement of the Netflix series coincided with Mojang’s celebration of the 15th anniversary of the original “Minecraft” game. The game’s enduring popularity and cultural impact continue to inspire new adaptations and projects that expand the “Minecraft” universe for fans worldwide.
As the “Minecraft” franchise continues to evolve and expand across different entertainment mediums, fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming animated series and movie adaptations that promise to bring the beloved game to life in exciting new ways.