With Microsoft's billions behind it, Minecraft's momentum is showing no signs of slowing. Pharaoh's Blog is now compatible with VR and allowed players to tweak their worlds through Add-Ons. The film has an expected release date (although it's set for 2019) and soon it's going to be its own official novel. Mojang has confirmed that Minecraft: The Island is the brand new book. It was written by Max Brooks, who also wrote the post-apocalyptic zombie novel World War Z.
Marsh Davies, Mojang's Mojang, says "Think cuboid Robinson Crusoe but madder: A hero who is stranded in an unfamiliar land with unfamiliar rules, learning how to survive against incredible odds." "I've looked at an early draft and it's amazing exactly as we hoped it would be."
Although it's not certain when the book will be published or whether it will be tied into the film, it is clear that it will be the first of many. Publishing house Del Rey -- the science fiction offshoot of Penguin Random House -- is in charge of everything, and the company has already stated that it's "fortunate to have someone with Max's extraordinary talent and enthusiasm on board for the launch of the series."
Parents will likely be responsible for more expenses however, some will be happy for the fact that Minecraft is expanding its reach to education. Minecraft: Education Edition will aid teachers from November 1st, and the release of the upcoming novels will only increase children's love of reading.