My name is Samantha (username Tacit_Knowledge), and I’m a longtime Minecraft player from Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. I’ve been enjoying the game for many years, primarily through Java/Forge version 1.20.1, and I wanted to reach out with some deep concerns about its future.

I’m worried that full access to Minecraft: Java Edition could be phased out or significantly limited over time. Java Edition has always been the creative heart of Minecraft for me and millions of other players. The modding community — especially the Forge community for version 1.20.1 — has an incredible, decades-long history of innovation that has kept the game fresh and exciting long after official updates.

Forge and other modding tools have enabled thousands of high-quality mods and that add new player models (Yes Steve Models being a good example), 3D items (Like CoffeeCraft from BlockBrothers), & mechanics.  Many players, including myself, feel extremely attached to these experiences. Removing/restricting access to Java Edition would be devastating for this passionate part of the community. I strongly hope Microsoft will continue supporting Java Edition fully and work toward better interconnection between Java and Bedrock Editions. Features like easier mod compatibility with the Forge community would benefit everyone. 

I truly believe that this is the best path forward to keeping the game and player-base intact.  Thank you for taking the time to read my feedback.