# Minecraft franchise updates and Dungeons II release > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/minecraft-franchise-updates-and-dungeons-ii-release > Updated: 2026-10-03T14:00:14.000Z. Sources: 139. Developments: 8. Following the Minecraft Live event on September 26, 2026, Mojang Studios released Minecraft Dungeons II on September 29, 2026. Developed with Double Eleven, the action RPG is available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2, and is also launching on Xbox Game Pass. Unlike its predecessor, the sequel features an interconnected world structure, including an Overworld with biomes such as the Howling Woods and Frozen Highlands, rather than a mission-based format. It introduces several gameplay improvements, including a jumping mechanic, expanded combat slots, and a reworked enchantment system. The game also serves as the debut platform for ‘the Sift’, the franchise’s first new dimension in over 14 years. Described as a “beautiful, vibrant, and full of souls” realm featuring pink and turquoise environments, ‘the Sift’ is expected to arrive in the main Java and Bedrock editions in 2027. In Minecraft Dungeons II, players can access this dimension through cracks that appear during gameplay. The dimension is expected to include unique biomes such as Meadow and Carapace, alongside new mobs, blocks, and survival mechanics. Critical reception for Minecraft Dungeons II has been mixed to positive. While reviewers have praised the increased depth and improved movement, the title has faced technical challenges on Linux-based systems. Mojang has acknowledged feedback regarding a lack of Steam Deck support, noting that the team is working on a solution to address issues stemming from the game’s reliance on Windows-specific Xbox APIs. A recent update has since made the game playable on the Steam Deck, though full verification is still in progress. Additionally, a balance patch has increased the maximum Emerald storage capacity from 9,999 to 99,999. ## Claims - Mojang Studios is adding a fourth dimension called The Sift to Minecraft. (corroborated by 3 sources) - The Sift is the first new dimension added to the game in over 14 years. (corroborated by 3 sources) - The Sift dimension is expected to arrive in Java and Bedrock editions in 2027. (single source) - Minecraft Dungeons II is scheduled for release on September 29. (single source) - The Minecraft World hotel and theme park attractions are set to open in 2027 at Chessington World of Adventures Resort in London. (single source) - A version of Minecraft for the Nintendo Switch 2 is in development. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-10-03: Minecraft Dungeons II launches with interconnected world and new mechanics Minecraft Dungeons II has launched with an interconnected Overworld, new jumping mechanics, and deeper builds. The game is now playable on Steam Deck and included in Xbox Game Pass. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minecraft-dungeons-ii-launches-with-interconnected-world-and-new-mechanics ### 2026-10-01: Minecraft to introduce new dimension ‘The Sift’ in 2027 Mojang Studios announced ‘The Sift’, a new Minecraft dimension arriving in 2027. It will feature unique biomes and mobs, with an early preview appearing in ‘Minecraft Dungeons II’ in 2026. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minecraft-to-introduce-new-dimension-the-sift-in-2027 ### 2026-09-30: Minecraft Dungeons II launches with Steam Deck compatibility work in progress Minecraft Dungeons II has launched on multiple platforms, but Mojang is working to resolve compatibility issues for Steam Deck and Linux users following technical hurdles with Xbox APIs. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minecraft-dungeons-ii-launches-with-steam-deck-compatibility-work-in-progress ### 2026-09-28: Minecraft announces The Sift, its first new dimension in 14 years Mojang announced ‘The Sift’, Minecraft’s first new dimension in over 14 years. It debuts in Minecraft Dungeons II in 2026 before coming to the main game in 2027. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mojang-announces-the-sift-minecrafts-first-new-dimension-in-14-years ### 2026-09-28: Minecraft Dungeons II launches on PC and consoles Minecraft Dungeons II has launched on PC and consoles, featuring an interconnected world, the new Sift dimension, and expanded RPG mechanics compared to its predecessor. 27 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minecraft-dungeons-ii-receives-mixed-to-positive-critical-reviews ### 2026-09-26: Minecraft to introduce first new dimension in 14 years Mojang Studios announced “The Sift,” Minecraft’s first new dimension in 14 years. It debuts in Minecraft Dungeons II in late 2026 before coming to the main game in 2027, alongside new Ice Cave biomes. 113 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mojang-hosts-minecraft-live-to-reveal-upcoming-game-updates ### 2026-09-24: Minecraft Dungeons II set for release on September 29, 2026 Minecraft Dungeons II is set to release on September 29, 2026, for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2, featuring new worlds, enhanced combat, and cooperative play. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minecraft-dungeons-ii-set-for-release-on-september-29-2026 ### 2026-09-24: Mojang Studios to host Minecraft Live on September 26, 2026 Mojang Studios will host Minecraft Live on September 26, 2026, to announce future projects and highlight the release of Minecraft Dungeons II on September 29. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mojang-studios-to-host-minecraft-live-on-september-26-2026 --- Cite as: Minecraft franchise updates and Dungeons II release. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/minecraft-franchise-updates-and-dungeons-ii-release