Those who have been here for years and are now wondering why people are making such a fuss about Minecraft, this could interest you.

Starting with version 1.3, released yesterday, the game includes a free demo mode. Create an account, download the launcher, and start it using your new account. You'll be offered a "Play Demo" option, which allows you 100 minutes of gameplay. You won't be able to join any servers, but it can give you a better idea of what the game has to offer... or if your computer can run it!

I KNEW that would be in 1.3. I could FEEL it. After seeing how awesome the demo mode in the 360 version was. Now you don't have to illegally crack your game to try it. Not that I ever did, you know.