Craftsman: Building Craft is a free-to-use Google Chrome extension that ports the popular game to your web browser. You simply install this add-on, and clicking its icon automatically opens a new tab that shows the game. Like its other incarnations, you are a Craftsman tasked with gathering materials and building structures.

This web browser port for Craftsman: Building Craft contains all the content from the original game. However, it’s quite troublesome to start since it leads you through a couple of new tabs, and even then, the game itself is quite clunky. It’s a good alternative to Minecraft Classic.

Block-building, wherever you are

Unlike its initial releases, this web-based Craftsman: Building Craft has the advantage of being portable. As a Chrome extension, it installs much faster than its mobile counterpart. In fact, you can even instantly access this if your Google Account is logged in and synchronized across different devices, making it faster to enjoy. As mentioned, clicking the icon instantly opens a new tab with a recognizable homescreen

As mentioned, it plays just like the real thing. You can play it, go around a seeded world, or make changes through the settings screen. The different game modes are also available in this version. Gather materials, build structures, or create more complex mechanisms by farming unique materials. You can also play the game using your keyboard, your mouse, or a combination of both.

The main concern with the game is that it can be troublesome to set up. After clicking the extension icon, it opens a pop-up screen that tells you to “Press ENTER to start.” However, doing so will open another website where the game finally starts booting up. Also, another important thing missing here is the ability to save your progress. Every gameplay session is a standalone experience.

A convenient excuse for block-building fun

For some people, these kinds of voxel-art open-world gameplay is a part of everyday life, and Craftsman: Building Craft is a great excuse to get your quick fix. It contains all the content of the original game, giving you fun and enjoyment with all the conveniences of a Google Chrome extension. Of course, expect a tradeoff. It redirects you twice, and it doesn’t allow you to save your progress.