'Minecraft' adds a character creator option

Minecraft players are getting more control over how their avatar looks. The latest beta build includes a character creator option that'll let you tweak the body shape, skin tone, hairstyle and color, facial hair and eyes. You'll be able to pick from more than 100 free items, and others created by the Minecraft team will be available to buy.

The option is only available through Xbox One, Windows 10 and Android for now. It'll hit Minecraft Earth and Bedrock versions of the game, including Nintendo Switch and iOS, once the beta is over. You'll still be able to use custom skins on Windows 10 and mobile.

The customization option is a nice addition, and it follows a long line of games (such as many RPGs) that allow players to make their characters look the way they want. Many other titles, such as Fortnite, offer custom character items for sale too. While Minecraft has had a marketplace for community-created skins and texture packs for a couple of years, it's interesting to see the development team selling their own virtual items.