Minecraft Snapshot 25w17a: Key Updates and Features
The latest Minecraft snapshot, 25w17a, introduces exciting enhancements, notably the integration of the locator bar as a default feature and a new adjustable setting for cloud range. These additions aim to improve gameplay, especially in multiplayer environments.
Locator Bar Enabled by Default
Initially unveiled in snapshot 25w15a as part of an experimental data pack, the locator bar helps players identify the direction of others in multiplayer settings. With snapshot 25w17a, this tool is now readily available for all new worlds, enhancing the overall multiplayer experience.
Adjustable Cloud Rendering Distance
In response to the extended cloud range introduced in the previous snapshot (25w16a), Mojang has now included an option for players to adjust cloud rendering distance. This change addresses performance concerns, particularly for users with lower-end hardware, while still providing an enhanced visual experience in the skies.
Patch Notes Overview
Beyond these notable changes, snapshot 25w17a features various improvements to Minecraft Realms and addresses several bugs. Below are the highlights from the patch notes.
New Features in Minecraft Snapshot 25w17a
- Locator Bar functionality added as a default UI element
- New option to adjust cloud rendering distance
About the Locator Bar
The Locator Bar is a newly integrated HUD element that reveals the direction of nearby players. If no players are visible, the experience bar will function normally. However, when other players are present (and not hidden), the experience bar will only show when gaining experience, otherwise the Locator Bar is displayed.
- Multiplayer servers can manage the Locator Bar using the locatorBar gamerule.
- Players can conceal themselves by crouching, wearing specific heads, or using a Potion of Invisibility.
- Spectator Mode players are invisible on the Locator Bar but can see each other.
- Players visible within a 120-degree angle will be marked with colored indicators.
- Distance indicators will include arrows to signify elevation changes.
- Icon sizes change based on the distance of the player.
- Indicator colors are randomized, but servers have the option to modify them via the /waypoint command.
- Team members will have their indicator colors overridden by their team color.
Player Visibility Options
- Crouching prevents players from appearing on the Locator Bar.
- Only spectators can see one another on the Locator Bar.
Items Affecting Player Visibility
- Wearing certain items in the head slot can hide players:
- Carved Pumpkin, Skeleton Skull, Wither Skeleton Skull, Player Head, Zombie Head, Creeper Head, Dragon Head, Piglin Head.
Potions and Visibility
- A Potion of Invisibility will also remove players from the Locator Bar.
Significant Changes in Minecraft Snapshot 25w17a
- Enhanced Realms configuration interface.
- Region Preference setting introduced for improved realm hosting control.
Realms Improvements
- The Realms configuration screen now employs a tabbed layout for better navigation.
- New tabs for managing worlds, players, subscriptions, and settings.
- Region Preference settings provide more control over Realm geographic hosting.
- Terminology for closing/opening realms updated for clarity.
Technical Enhancements in Snapshot 25w17a
- Data Pack version updated to 74.
- Resource Pack version updated to 58.
- Introduced a server-controlled waypoint broadcasting system for the Locator Bar.
Data Pack Version 74 Updates
Waypoint Commands
New commands related to player waypoints include:
- waypoint list
- waypoint modify <entity-selector> color <color>
- waypoint modify <entity-selector> color hex <hex-color>
- waypoint modify <entity-selector> color reset
- waypoint modify <entity-selector> style <waypoint_style/resource>
- waypoint modify <entity-selector> style reset
Waypoint Attributes
These attributes govern how icons and indicators function, with some essential arguments including:
- entity-selector to target specific players and adjust their display settings.
- Configurations for distance and appearance of waypoint icons.
Game Rules and Transmission Ranges
- Provided controls for visibility with locatorBar as a boolean gamers rule.
- A new waypoint_transmit_range option lets players adjust transmitting and receiving ranges.
Bug Fixes Addressed in Snapshot 25w17a
- Fixes for several critical issues affecting gameplay including crashes and graphical glitches.
- Improvements in location-based functionalities and overall server performance.
Minecraft snapshot 25w17a is accessible for download through the official launcher. While it does not introduce groundbreaking features, players can now explore the benefits of the locator bar during multiplayer sessions, as well as confirm how effectively reported bugs have been resolved.