Updated 25 October 2026. Facts on this page come from minecraft.wiki, minecraft.net and the live Artemis PvP server; sources are listed at the bottom.
The Minecraft Launcher: Versions, Installations and RAM
The Minecraft Launcher is the PC app that installs and starts Java Edition (and on Windows, Bedrock Edition, Dungeons, Dungeons II and Legends). Sign in with a Microsoft account, then use the Installations tab to play any old version or snapshot, give each install its own folder, and change memory with JVM arguments.
How do you play an older version?
- Open Minecraft: Java Edition, then Installations, then New installation.
- Pick a version from the list (tick Snapshots to see test builds), give it a name, and save.
- Choose it next to the Play button and press Play.
- Give old versions their own game directory so their worlds and settings do not mix with your newest install.
Every version is listed on every Minecraft version.
How do you give Minecraft more RAM?
Edit an installation, open More options, and change the JVM arguments: the -Xmx value sets the maximum memory, so -Xmx4G gives 4 GB. The launcher uses a bundled Java runtime by default; 26.1 and newer need Java 25. See system requirements and how to improve FPS.
What else is in the launcher?
- Skins: upload and switch skins; see Minecraft skins.
- Realms: manage your Realm.
- Patch notes for each version.
- Offline play: once a version is downloaded, you can play singleplayer without internet.
- Several copies of the game can run at once by pressing Play again.
What if the launcher will not start the game?
Update the launcher and your graphics drivers, try a fresh installation with no mods, and make sure you are signed in to the account that owns the game: without it the Play button turns into Buy. Crash help: Minecraft crashing.
Which launcher version works for ArtemisPvP?
Frequently asked questions
How do I play an old Minecraft version?
In the launcher, Installations, New installation, pick the version, then Play.
How do I allocate more RAM to Minecraft?
Edit the installation's JVM arguments and raise -Xmx, for example -Xmx4G.
Sources
Every fact on this page was checked against these pages; the wording is ours.