'Minecraft' Adds an Option to Create Characters

Minecraft players are getting more control over the look of their avatars. The beta version of Minecraft includes a character creator that lets you alter your body shape, skin tone and hairstyle, as well as facial hair and eyes. You can choose from more than 100 free items as well as other creations by the Minecraft team are available for purchase.

The option is only available through Xbox One, Windows 10 and Android at the moment. It will be available on Minecraft Earth and Bedrock versions of the game, which includes Nintendo Switch and iOS, after the beta ends. You'll still be able create custom skins for Windows 10 and mobile.

The customization option is a nice feature and follows the tradition of many games (such as many RPGs) which allow players to make their characters look the way they want. Fortnite is just one example of a game that allows players to customize their character's items. While Minecraft has had an online marketplace for community-created skins and texture packs for a while It's interesting to see the team behind the development selling their own virtual items.