Ray Tracing In Minecraft Windows 10

Through a collaboration with NVIDIA, Minecraft is integrating ray tracing technology into Windows 10. Ray tracing allows the Render Dragon™ graphics engine to unlock new features: realistic lighting, textures for burning objects, vibrant colors, and natural reflections on water surfaces.

Before we delve into the new capabilities, it’s essential to note that ray tracing is only supported in Windows 10, and you will need to join the beta version. Additionally, there are specific computer requirements: an NVIDIA® GeForce® RTX 2060 GPU, an Intel Core i5 processor or equivalent, and at least 8GB+ of RAM. Don’t forget to install the latest Game Ready drivers to ensure optimal gaming performance.

By joining the beta version, you will receive a complimentary set of worlds featuring all the latest functionalities. Do you want to witness the sun setting over a medieval village or see the lights shining in a futuristic neon city? You can find all this in the Marketplace! Additionally, you will have the ability to create your own resource packs that allow you to modify metallic properties, light reflection, and material roughness. With features like direct lighting, emissive surfaces (glowing stone and lava), realistic shadows, pixelated emission lighting, reflections, and transparent materials, you can bring your worlds in Minecraft to life!

This is merely a beta version of the game, and many features are currently undergoing testing. Some things may not function as expected; the game might experience lag, certain areas of the game world could be inaccessible (such as The End or The Nether), and not all systems will operate like those found in other versions of Minecraft. Please keep in mind that worlds created in beta builds cannot be reopened in earlier versions. We recommend always backing up your worlds before accessing them in beta versions. Beta players can only connect with others on the same beta build and do not have access to Realms or partner servers. You can toggle the beta version on and off within the Xbox Insider Hub app.

You can join the beta version here, and find answers to key questions about ray tracing technology here.

The ray tracing feature is exclusively available on Windows 10. Before you connect, keep in mind:

A graphics card of at least GeForce RTX 2060 or newer is required. Ray tracing support is necessary.
Make sure your Windows 10 is updated to the latest version.
You need to have Minecraft.