Minecraft and BBC partnering on Frozen Planet 2 educational content

BBC Earth and Minecraft Education have partnered to create five Frozen Planet 2-themed worlds, the companies have announced.

The first Frozen Planet 2 world will be available today with further games launching weekly. Minecraft: Education Edition is a virtual learning experience based on the ultra-popular sandbox game.

The Frozen Planet 2 content has been made available for free to Minecraft: Education Edition users globally in 29 different languages accompanied by lesson plans for “teachers to educate students about the importance of our frozen worlds and allow them to explore the effects of climate change as part of classroom curriculum,” according to Microsoft.

“One of the great things about the natural world is its power to engage and enthral viewers young and old,” said Elizabeth White, series producer, Frozen Planet II.

“We are delighted to partner with Minecraft on this range of educational computer games which will enable children to interact with stories inspired by the series through gameplay, and learn more about the challenges of these habitats through the additional lesson content.”

Allison Matthews, head of Minecraft Education, added: “We’re excited to partner with BBC Studios in this unique venture – we’re bringing a whole new perspective to Minecraft and, collaborating with the great minds behind Frozen Planet II, a truly authentic experience of some of the most fascinating and important areas of our world.

“It’s never been more crucial to educate players everywhere about the effects of climate change and inspire a new generation of young people around sustainability. We believe it’s our responsibility to do so, and this partnership is the next big step in that direction.”

This is the latest collaboration from the Minecraft: Education Edition which earlier this year partnered with the UK’s Environment Agency to create Rivercraft, a mode for the game designed to teach students about the changing environment.