The demo mode is a demo version of Minecraft for users who have not purchased the game yet and would like to try it out first, designed to replace the functionality of the outdated PC Gamer Minecraft demo.

The demo version of Minecraft can be played free-of-charge by registering a Mojang account and logging into the Minecraft launcher. The demo version functionally serves to allow players to try out the game before making the decision to buy Minecraft. It allows players to play on a single world for a 100 minute (5 in-game days) period, before the map is locked, and required to be reset. While the demo version does not expire, it comes with certain restrictions, as its sole purpose is to allow new players to try out Minecraft.