How to install Minetest 5.8.0 on a Chromebook

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing Minetest 5.8.0 or newer on your Chromebook. Minetest is an open-source voxel game engine and game, similar to Minecraft, that offers endless possibilities for creativity and exploration.

Why Install Minetest on Your Chromebook?

Chromebooks are known for their simplicity and ease of use, but they're capable of much more than just web browsing. By installing Minetest, you're opening up a world of gaming and creativity right on your Chromebook. This installation process also serves as an excellent introduction to using Linux applications on your Chromebook, expanding its functionality beyond its default capabilities.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure that your Chromebook supports Linux apps (Crostini). Most modern Chromebooks do, but if you're unsure, you can check our list of Chromebooks with Linux Apps support.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these steps carefully to install Minetest on your Chromebook:

1. Enable Linux Apps on Your Chromebook

If you haven't already enabled Linux apps on your Chromebook, you'll need to do so first:

  1. Open your Chromebook's Settings
  2. Navigate to the Advanced section
  3. Click on the Developers section
  4. Turn on the Linux apps option

2. Install Minetest Using Flatpak

We'll be using Flatpak to install Minetest. Flatpak is a universal package management system that makes it easy to install and update applications. Open your Linux terminal and run the following commands one by one:

1) sudo apt update
2) sudo apt install flatpak
3) sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
4) sudo flatpak install flathub net.minetest.Minetest
5) sudo chown root:root /usr/bin/bwrap && sudo chmod u+s /usr/bin/bwrap

Let's break down what each command does:

  • Command 1 updates your package lists
  • Command 2 installs Flatpak
  • Command 3 adds the Flathub repository to Flatpak
  • Command 4 installs Minetest from Flathub
  • Command 5 sets the correct permissions for the bwrap utility, which is necessary for Flatpak to function correctly

Running Minetest

After installation, you should be able to find Minetest in your Chromebook's app launcher. If you don't see it immediately, try restarting your Chromebook.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues during the installation process, here are a few things to try:

  • Ensure your Chromebook's software is up to date
  • Restart your Chromebook and try the installation process again
  • Check that you have sufficient storage space available

If you're still having trouble, please reach out to us through a YouTube comment on the tutorial video, and we'll be happy to assist you!

Additional Resources

To learn more about Minetest and Flatpak, check out these resources:

Video Tutorial

For a visual guide to this process, check out our video tutorial above. It provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the installation process, making it even easier to follow along.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've now successfully installed Minetest on your Chromebook. This process not only gives you access to a fun and creative game but also serves as an excellent introduction to using Linux applications on your Chromebook. Enjoy exploring the vast world of Minetest, and don't hesitate to experiment with mods and custom content to enhance your experience!

For more Chromebook tips and tutorials, be sure to check out our Chromebook comparison and Buyers Guide.

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