Earlier this year at Minecraft Live 2024, Mojang unveiled an intriguing addition to its beloved game: the “Garden Awakens” update. This latest release invites players to delve into a haunting new biome, where they can encounter the mysterious Creaking mob and uncover the secrets nestled within its depths. The update introduces a variety of new features, including blocks, hanging moss, and much more, enriching the Minecraft experience.
Gameplay Features
The centerpiece of this update is the Creaking Heart, a unique “living” block found within the Pale Oak trees. This block, enveloped by Pale Oak wood logs, has the potential to spawn the Creaking mob during nighttime, provided it is positioned correctly between two aligned Pale Oak logs. Here are some key gameplay features:
- An activated Creaking remains stationary when a player is looking directly at it.
- The Creaking mob is invulnerable to damage.
- When struck, a particle trail connects the Creaking to its corresponding Creaking Heart block.
- If the Creaking Heart block is destroyed, the Creaking will vanish.
- The Creaking is unaffected by light levels but follows the day/night cycle for spawning and despawning.
- Creaking cannot board boats or pass through portals.
- A Creaking Spawn Egg can create a Creaking mob independent of a Creaking Heart, which persists through various game states.
- Players wearing carved pumpkins can observe Creakings without freezing them in place.
- Upon destruction of a Creaking Heart, the Creaking will twitch before crumbling away.
- Creakings trapped with a player for over five seconds will crumble, preventing potential gameplay issues.
- When a Creaking crumbles, nearby Sculk Catalysts will bloom, although no XP will be dropped.
- Creaking emits four distinct sway sounds and new attack sounds.
Additionally, the update introduces Eyeblossoms, vibrant new flowers that flourish in the Pale Garden biome. This biome variation of the Dark Forest is characterized by ambient sounds generated by the blocks within it, rather than the biome settings themselves. Players will also discover Pale Hanging Moss and Pale Moss blocks, both of which naturally generate in this eerie landscape.
Block Changes and Improvements
The update brings a series of adjustments to block interactions:
- Several blocks, including the Blast Furnace and Enchanting Table, now require a pickaxe to drop when broken.
- Blocks that need support will consistently drop when broken with any tool, enhancing gameplay fluidity.
- Mining speeds for certain blocks have been adjusted based on the tools used, adding a layer of strategy to resource gathering.
- New mechanics have been introduced for various tools, including swords and axes, affecting how quickly they interact with different materials.
Moreover, the update addresses numerous bugs and enhances the user interface, ensuring a smoother gaming experience. Players can now enjoy improved feedback during Realm uploads and refined touch controls for mobile devices.
With the “Garden Awakens” update, Mojang continues to expand the Minecraft universe, inviting players to explore new realms filled with mystery and adventure. The blend of innovative gameplay features and thoughtful adjustments promises to enrich the experience for both new and seasoned players alike.