Notch's Minecraft Earnings and Royalties
Markus Persson, known as Notch, created Minecraft in 2009 and sold over 238 million copies worldwide as of 2024, generating billions in lifetime revenue. Notch earned a large share of early Minecraft sales through his company Mojang, with estimates of his personal take exceeding $350 million before the Microsoft deal Forbes.
After Microsoft acquired Mojang for $2.5 billion in 2014, Notch received a substantial one-time payout and retained a minority stake, though he later sold most of his shares SEC. Post-acquisition, Notch earned ongoing royalties from Minecraft licensing and merchandise, while Mojang continued to pay him a share of net revenue under the original acquisition terms.
Notch's Post-Sale Net Worth and Investments
Notch's net worth peaked at roughly $1.7 billion in 2014, driven by Minecraft royalties, Mojang shares, and early Bitcoin holdings, according to public financial disclosures and Forbes estimates Forbes. By 2024, his net worth is estimated in the low hundreds of millions after taxes, asset sales, and high-risk investments.
Notch has invested heavily in startups, real estate, and cryptocurrency, including early stakes in companies like Oculus VR and Robinhood, as well as direct equity investments tracked on public filings SEC. He has also funded independent game studios and personal projects, while maintaining a low public profile and minimal involvement in the gaming industry.
Microsoft's Minecraft Revenue and Notch's Cut
Microsoft reports Minecraft as a flagship franchise under its Gaming division, with the game surpassing 300 million registered players and generating annual revenues exceeding $3.5 billion by 2024 Forbes. The Minecraft franchise includes console sales, mobile editions, Minecraft Dungeons, Minecraft Legends, and the Minecraft Marketplace, all contributing to Microsoft's gaming segment growth.
Notch's direct financial involvement with Minecraft ended after the 2014 acquisition, though he retained a contractual royalty stream and a small equity stake in the franchise for several years SEC. Microsoft has since expanded Minecraft into education, enterprise, and metaverse initiatives, while Notch's earnings from the franchise have shifted from active development profits to passive income from his original stake and royalties.