So, 1.17 is on the horizon while snapshots are coming out the woodwork left and right. And what do they decide to drop on our doorstep? Dripstone. Minecraft introduces something that the modding community has adored for so long in improved cave generation, biomes. With that, comes the newest and coolest biome in the latest snapshot, 20w49a, the Dripstone Caves.
Today, we’ll be going over the fairly short yet interesting compilation of mechanics surrounding Dripstone. Let’s get started.
Dripstone
If you don’t know what Dripstone is, Dripstone is a new block that will be included in the newest 1.17 Caves and Cliffs update. They can generate on the floors and ceilings of the newest biome, Dripstone Caves. They come in two variants. Stalactites and Stalagmites. These are basically fancy ways of saying top or bottom Dripstone. If it descends from the ceiling, it is a Stalactite. If it sprouts from the ground, its is a Stalagmite. That’s all the information we have so far on these things in regards to formation!
Dripstone Caves
Dripstone Caves are the main, and first underground biome where Dripstone spawns. The block will cover most of the ceiling and floor, posing quite the hazard to mobs and players alike. They also look extremely majestic when making large formations around a cave.
Dripstone Mechanics
Drip Drop – Dripstone actually drips! Putting a source block of lava or water on top of a Stalactite will eventually lead to that liquid dripping off the tip. Leaving a Cauldron under will actually fill it over time. This also means you can now fill Cauldrons with Lava!
INFINITE LAVA – With the new mechanic that I have dubbed ‘Drip Drop’ you can now infinitely produce lava! All you need is one bucket full of lava, and have the Dripstone drop it in a Cauldron. Do this multiple times to constantly produce more lava!
Conclusion
Dripstone is a fairly developed addition to Minecraft which I think is a net gain for 1.17. It adds in Stalactites and Stalagmites like the modded community has begged for while also keeping that beautiful Minecraft aesthetic. On top of that, it adds some mechanical functionality which is always appreciated. Also, an awesome themed underground biome to boot! Overall, a great welcome addition to the game.
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