Hytale’s creator, Simon Collins-Laflamme, praised Mojang’s iconic game, Minecraft, calling it “one of the greatest games of all time.” However, he emphasized that Hytale will take a markedly different approach, steering away from direct comparisons in gameplay and design. This revelation comes as anticipation builds for Hytale’s Early Access launch on January 13, 2026.
Collins-Laflamme highlighted the unique aspects of Hytale, stating that while it shares some sandbox elements with Minecraft, it aims to offer a “very very different path.” He pointed out that Hytale will focus more on adventure and fantasy, incorporating features that distinguish it from its predecessor. The game is designed with an emphasis on magic, which Collins-Laflamme believes will set it apart.
In an effort to redefine crafting mechanics, Collins-Laflamme noted that Hytale’s crafting system is inspired by games like Valheim and Terraria, rather than the traditional grid crafting seen in Minecraft. This shift is intended to enhance creativity and gameplay depth, allowing players to engage in a more fluid crafting experience.
Collins-Laflamme remains appreciative of Mojang’s contribution to the gaming industry, acknowledging the strong community that has developed around Minecraft. “I have great respect for the people at Mojang,” he stated. “They have created an amazing game and community; our games will be very different.” His admiration for Minecraft is evident, as he expressed that it continues to be one of his favorite games.
The journey to Hytale’s release has been complex, marked by developmental challenges and a brief cancellation by Riot Games, which initially held the rights to the title. After reacquiring the game, Collins-Laflamme returned to development using an earlier build, demonstrating determination to see Hytale through to launch.
At launch, Hytale will not be available on Steam as the developers believe that this decision will help avoid negative reviews from players who may not fully understand the game’s mechanics. Collins-Laflamme explained that the team does not see the necessity of a Steam release at this time, focusing instead on delivering a polished experience for early adopters.
As Hytale prepares for its launch, the gaming community is eager to see how it will carve its niche in the competitive landscape, particularly against the backdrop of its well-established predecessor. With its innovative crafting and adventure elements, Hytale aims to attract players looking for a new type of sandbox experience.
