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 Mojave Studios.
Merlin said it had agreed an initial £85-million ($107.5-million) deal with the Swedish company to develop game-based attractions at its existing parks in the UK and the US in 2026 and 2027. .
It then plans to expand the concept to accommodation, retail and restaurants, as well as a ride based on the popular 3D sandbox game, before rolling it out worldwide.
Scott O’Neill, chief executive of Merlin Entertainment, called the deal “a significant milestone”.
“Minecraft’ is the best-selling video game of all time and will be the first game in the world to see fans experience its thrills and creativity in real life at major tourist destinations, theme parks and city center attractions. “, he added.
Killian Walters, vice president, franchise development for gaming at Microsoft, which acquired Mojave in 2014, called it “an incredibly exciting move” that will help broaden the game’s appeal.
“Minecraft” is the best-selling video game of all time, with more than 140 million players per month.
A live-action film is slated for release next year, while Netflix has also announced plans for an animated series.
Merlin operates several well-known theme parks and tourist attractions, including Legoland, Peppa Pig Theme Park and Madame Tussauds Waxwork Museum.
