How do I download another version of Minecraft?

This article details how to change your game version for Minecraft: Java Edition.

By default, Minecraft is set to the most current version of the game. Changing the version requires creating a launcher configuration with the desired version and then set the game to use that configuration. 

WARNING: Before changing your game version, it’s strongly recommended that you back up your worlds. If you try to play on one of your current worlds and you access that world using an older version of the game, you may permanently damage that world. It’s strongly recommended that you back up your worlds by locating them and then making a copy of your game files. 

CHANGE THE GAME VERSION 

1. Click Installations on the launcher start page, and then click New. 

2. In the Create new installation box, select a name for the installation and choose the game version from the VERSION list. 

3. Click Create to save the change, and then click Play on the top menu. 

4. On the launcher landing page, find your saved installation in the list and click it to change to that version of the game.