The latest Minecraft: Java Edition snapshot adds lava aquifers and more

Minecraft: Bedrock Edition was just treated with the release of Minecraft: Bedrock Edition Beta 1.17.0.50. Now, the legacy version of Minecraft is getting the same treatment with Minecraft: Java Edition Snapshot 21w16a now available for testers everywhere. The latest snapshot for Minecraft continues to test out new features from the upcoming Caves and Cliffs Update.

Today, players can experience the new dripstone blocks growing over time, can use bonemeal on azalea bushes to create azalea trees, and enjoy new tweaked textures for raw ore. There’s also an evolution to the datapack system introduced in Minecraft: Java Edition Snapshot 21w15a, which lets players test features even earlier that are planned to come with the delayed second half of the Caves and Cliffs Update. This includes features like new underground lava aquifers.

If you’re excited for the Caves and Cliffs Update, which now releases part one this summer and part two this winter, consider taking a look at our list of best Minecraft merch, toys, and gifts for something awesome for yourself or a loved one.

The full changelog for Minecraft: Java Edition Snapshot 21w16a includes:

New features

If a stalactite is hanging from a dripstone block with a water source above, it will slowly grow both the stalactite from above and a stalagmite from below
Growth speed is random but very slow, a single growth step can take several minecraft days
A stalactite will only grow up to 7 blocks long
A stalactite will only cause stalagmite growth if the floor or stalagmite below is within 10 blocks
If the stalactite tip is inside water it won’t drip, and therefore won’t trigger any growth
If the stalagmite tip is inside water it won’t receive drops, and therefore won’t be grown by a dripping stalactite. Same thing if there is any fluid between the two tips
A stalagmite or stalactite will never grow into a fluid