Minecraft removes references to controversial creator Notch in latest build

Updated April 29, 2019: Microsoft purposely removed references to Notch due to the statements he's made publicly. The company wishes to distance itself from his statements.

Many years ago, Microsoft bought Minecraft for a record sum, and has since expanded its scope to include industries like virtual reality and education. However, it seems like some other changes are afoot. Recently, Fortune and other outlets reported that Minecraft creator Markus Persson — also known as Notch — made controversial statements about homosexuality. As a result of this, Microsoft may have removed mention of him from Minecraft.

Notch hasn't been involved in Minecraft's developement for years, but he's still one of the developers who helped make it. According to a report by PC Gamer, "the Minecraft wiki lists the removal of the text 'Made by Notch!' and 'The Work of Notch!' in the March 27 snapshot." PC Gamer verified that the references to Notch are indeed gone.

We've reached out to Microsoft for a statement as to why references to Notch have been removed. We'll keep you posted as soon as we know more. It's unclear if this decision is related to his controversial comments.

Minecraft is expected to join Xbox Game Pass in April. According to the company, the game allows players to "discover limitless ways to play and create anything you can imagine." You can try to survive the night alone or share your adventure with friends. You also have the ability to build anything you can think of, explore your own unique overworld, and interact with various creatures.

Asher Madan

Asher Madan handles gaming news for Windows Central. Before joining Windows Central in 2017, Asher worked for a number of different gaming outlets. He has a background in medical science and is passionate about all forms of entertainment, cooking, and antiquing.