(May 2009 – June 2010)
Minecraft was in heavy development during 2009. Players followed the introduction of a huge range of items into Minecraft. This is called Minecraft Classic. Not many games were picked up by players during development at that time. This has changed quite a bit in the last few years, and Minecraft’s success likely played a critical factor in that.
The first official version of Minecraft that we know of was 0.0.9a. This was a time when you’d see new types of blocks added constantly. Many of the items became core elements of gameplay that are still here today (e.g., Lava, Trees, and Sand).
Indev and Infdev came next. During late 2009 and the first half of 2010, players saw the introduction of far more complex items. Signs, Ladders, and Doors came into use. Cave systems became more complex. Minecarts, Spawners, and Dungeons were all added as well. Things got a lot more dangerous out there in the night. Luckily, daylight hours were increased, so players had more time to build shelter before the nasties started knocking on doors.
Survival Mode helped Minecraft grow from a building and exploration simulator into a full-fledged game of life or death. The burning hiss of Creepers continues to live on in players’ nightmares.