The Minecraft 1.21 update is on its way, adding new features, structures, mobs, and more. Before it fully releases, players can explore some of the features through Snapshots and Betas. So, here’s how to access and play them.
Officially announced in the 2023 Minecraft Live, the 1.21 update was posed as a rolling announcement, with new features being revealed slowly. However, by now, we have plenty of information regarding this exciting update and Snapshots are revealing more ways to enjoy the game.
Snapshots and Betas are Mojang’s way to test the new content, and for players to be given the opportunity to explore the features before they’re fully rolled out. So, if you want to join in, here’s how to access the Snapshot and Beta and what you can expect to see there.
How to play the Java Snapshot and Bedrock Beta
If you own either the Java or the Bedrock edition of Minecraft, then you can try the new update before it’s officially released. It will change regularly but is well worth a look if you’re interested in the upcoming version of Minecraft. How to play the 1.21 update is described below.
How to play Minecraft Java Snapshot
Playing the Java Snapshot of Minecraft is relatively long-winded but will allow you to get a first look at the new update. To play the update on Minecraft Java edition, follow these steps:
- Load up the Minecraft Launcher.
- Click on Installations.
- Tick Snapshots.
- Select ‘New Installation’.
- Under the Version bar, click Latest Release.
- Select the Latest snapshot you created and press play.
- Create a new world.
- Select Data Packs.
- Move the available packs over to Selected.
- Finalize the world and head into the game.
How to play Minecraft Bedrock Beta
You can play the Minecraft Bedrock Beta on PC, Xbox, or Android. To download it and get access, you’ll need to follow these steps.
- Install and launch Minecraft Preview.
- Click Play Preview.
- Create a new world.
- Click on Experiments under the world setting before finalizing the new world.
- Toggle Next Major Update on.
- Press create and enjoy.
Everything announced for Minecraft 1.21
Different stages of copper oxidation: unoxidized to most oxidized.
Although there has been less announced in this update compared to previous Minecraft versions, there are still plenty of exciting additions players have to look forward to. Here are all the new features coming to the Minecraft 1.21 update:
New Mobs: Breeze & Armadillo
Two new mobs will be joining Minecraft in its 1.21 update. The voted mob will be the adorable Armadillo, which can provide armor for your wolves.
Then, there will be the addition of the Breeze, a hostile mob you’ll see in Trial chambers. These foes are pretty formidable, so you’ll need to be careful when approaching them.
New Blocks: Copper and Tuff
Two new major blocks will be joining the game, Copper and Tuff. Each has plenty of variants for you to craft with, including:
- Chiseled Copper
- Copper Grate
- Copper Door
- Copper Trapdoor
- Copper Bulb
Trial Chambers
Trial Chambers will be arriving to Minecraft soon, bringing with it some new challenges, blocks, chests, battles and so much more.
Trial chambers themselves are new hidden structures and are likely to be an extremely popular multiplayer adventure.
Automatic crafters
As revealed during Minecraft Live, we’ll soon be getting an automatic crafting table, aptly called the Crafter. You can build a crafting table with some redstone, iron, and a dropper, and you’ll be able to automatically create torches, fences, planks, and whatever you want.
In the meantime, take a look at some of our other Minecraft guides and news: