QA playtest · Before you join
Prepare Minecraft. Meet at the gate.
Use the device you play on and sign in to Minecraft with the Xbox profile listed in your tester invitation.
1. Check your game version
Your browser cannot read or install your Minecraft version. Install Minecraft from its official download page, or update your existing copy through your device’s store. On Windows, open Microsoft Store → Library → Get updates. On mobile, check Minecraft in the App Store or Google Play.
This compares the version you enter. It does not inspect your installed game. If your store offers a newer release than QA, report it so the server can be updated.
2. Download the required Castle pack
Castle Raid’s gameplay add-on runs on the server. You do not need to import the behavior pack or install an extension before joining.
When Minecraft offers the Castle resource pack, choose Download & Join. The pack is required for this playtest. Minecraft downloads and applies Castle’s original textures and PBR materials before you enter; declining the pack prevents joining.
A pack download cannot update Minecraft itself. Keep the game updated through your device’s store.
3. Enable Vibrant Visuals before joining
This Castle playtest requires Vibrant Visuals for raid participation. From Minecraft’s main menu, open Settings → Video → Graphics Mode → Vibrant Visuals, then join the server. If you are already connected, leave the world before changing the setting if Minecraft asks you to.
The server checks Minecraft’s reported graphics mode after connection. Until Vibrant Visuals can be verified, you stay in Spectator and cannot raid. You receive a reminder and are disconnected after 30 seconds; enable the setting and reconnect.
Use a device on which Minecraft offers Vibrant Visuals. M5 iPads meet Mojang’s published M1-or-higher requirement for iPad support. A device without this graphics option cannot participate in this playtest. An RTX GPU or ray-traced mode is not required.
This browser cannot inspect your active Minecraft graphics mode, and the server cannot change that setting for you. The version check above does not confirm graphics readiness.
This opens the standalone QA castle. Managed party raids and permanent rewards are still in development.