No, you do not need xbox live you only need the points to play minecraft (1600-$20)
To originally purchase Minecraft yes, but from then on it can be run without Live!
I believe no. i am a Minecraft pro on the PC version but i don't you need it. maybe for multiplayer. and minecraft is better on the pc.
no you need minecraft beta to play beta servers
You can play Minecraft anywhere.
minecraft itself and java
yes you need a minecraft map to explore.
There is no fake Minecraft, but you need a paid account.
You can be any age to play Minecraft. I think the rating is E.
You will need to invite your friends or other console user members to play Minecraft with you.
No, you do not need to confirm your email to play Minecraft.
If you wish to play locally (with yourself or someone else via split screen) then no. If you wish to play over the internet, then yes.