Copper, introduced in Minecraft in June 2021, held significant promise due to its unique oxidation properties. Now, Mojang`s forthcoming “The Copper Age” update, set to launch next week on September 30, finally unlocks this material`s full potential, offering numerous new applications for your stored copper reserves.
A long-awaited feature is the ability to craft and equip copper items. Copper armor, offering protection and durability between leather and iron, will be available as a complete set, including horse armor. Similarly, players can forge full sets of copper tools. These copper items are notable for not oxidizing and boast greater durability than stone tools, though they are less robust than iron alternatives.
The update also introduces copper chests, copper golems, and their oxidized statue forms. Crafting your first copper golem by combining copper blocks and a carved pumpkin will also yield a copper chest. Copper golems can then be used to automatically sort items from their specialized chests into other storage containers within your base. Rumors suggest an endearing interaction occurs when a copper golem encounters an iron golem.
Copper golems, upon full oxidation, transform into stationary statues. They can be revived by chipping away the patina with an axe, or their oxidation can be permanently halted with wax. As statues, they offer decorative and functional versatility. Similar to armor stands, they feature various poses that players can cycle through, allowing for personalized base aesthetics, from welcoming to imposing. Furthermore, these copper golem statues integrate with Redstone, emitting distinct signals based on their pose when connected to a Redstone comparator, opening up exciting possibilities for inventive Redstone contraptions.
Players can also craft copper lanterns, green-glowing copper torches, chains, and bars to enhance their base`s aesthetics, with the option to select their preferred oxidation stage. Additionally, lightning rods will now exhibit oxidation over time.
A particularly innovative new feature is the shelf block. These shelves can hold three items, facilitating rapid item exchanges with your hotbar. When powered and arranged alongside other shelves, and integrated with Redstone, they allow for instant hotbar loadout swaps. This enables players to easily prepare for different activities, such as specific expeditions or storing spare equipment.
Finally, dye icons will be updated for improved clarity and accessibility, making them easier to distinguish.
During Minecraft Live, Mojang also teased future content, including the “Mounts of Mayhem” holiday 2025 update, the “Friendly Fishing” educational add-on, and an upcoming collaboration with Dragon Ball Z.