“Caves & Cliffs” update released for Minecraft

An update for Minecraft promised by the developers since October 2020 has been released. It is available across all game platforms.

Update 1.17 has been released for both Minecraft Bedrock (PS4, Xbox One, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, Windows 10) and Java (Windows, macOS, Linux).

The first part of Caves & Cliffs introduces 91 new block types into the game, including amethyst and copper. The latter can be used to craft items such as lightning rods. Interestingly, just like in nature, copper in Minecraft will slowly change its color when exposed to weather conditions. Powder snow blocks, into which players can fall, and big dripleaves – which can be climbed – are also available.

New mobs are coming to the game – goats inhabiting mountain peaks. They can be bred and milked. Glowing squids and axolotls can now be found in underground lakes and open waters. These colorful salamanders come in several types and can play dead when their health drops to a dangerous level.

The second part of the Caves & Cliffs update, including underground biomes and a new cave generation model, will be released at the end of the year. The Mojang team wants to test all elements thoroughly. Next year, Minecraft fans can expect updates focused on the new archaeology system.