Surviving the Nether: Tips for 1.9 Server Exploration and Resource Gathering
19th February 2022
The Nether, a perilous dimension in Minecraft, is home to dangerous mobs, treacherous terrain, and valuable resources. As of the 1.9 update, the Nether underwent significant changes, introducing new biomes, structures, and resources. Navigating this hostile environment and gathering essential resources can be a daunting task. If you're venturing into the Nether on a 1.9 server, here are some tips to help you survive and make the most of your exploration and resource gathering.
Prepare Thoroughly:
Before entering the Nether, thorough preparation is key to survival. Stock up on necessary supplies, including weapons, armor, food, and blocks for building defensive structures. Enchanting your gear with appropriate enchantments, such as Fire Protection and Blast Protection, can provide additional protection against Nether-specific dangers. Make sure to bring plenty of building materials, as creating safe paths and shelters in the Nether is crucial.
Find a Fortified Fortress:
Nether Fortresses are valuable structures found in the Nether, housing Blaze spawners and various loot chests. Locating a Nether Fortress should be a priority, as it provides essential resources, including Blaze Rods for brewing potions and Wither Skeleton skulls for summoning the Wither boss. Exploring the fortress can be dangerous, so proceed cautiously, light up the area to prevent mob spawns, and be ready to fend off Blazes and Wither Skeletons.
Harvest Nether Quartz:
Nether Quartz, a valuable resource found in the Nether, is essential for crafting various items, including comparators and Redstone-related mechanisms. Nether Quartz ore generates abundantly in the Nether, particularly in the Quartz-rich biomes. Bring a pickaxe with Fortune enchantment to maximize the number of Quartz obtained from each block. Gather a substantial amount to ensure a steady supply for future Redstone projects.
Mine Ancient Debris:
Ancient Debris, a new resource introduced in 1.16, is the key to obtaining Netherite, the strongest material in Minecraft. Ancient Debris can only be found in the lower regions of the Nether, typically near the bottom bedrock layer. It appears as blocks covered in black and gold specks. To mine Ancient Debris, use a Diamond or Netherite pickaxe with the Efficiency enchantment. Smelt the Ancient Debris in a furnace to obtain Netherite Scraps, which can then be combined with Gold Ingots to create Netherite ingots.
Utilize Bastions:
Bastions are fortress-like structures found in certain Nether biomes, such as the Crimson Forest or Warped Forest. These structures are inhabited by Piglins, which can provide valuable loot and trade opportunities. Explore Bastions with caution, as Piglins can turn hostile if provoked or if gold items are not worn or traded with them. Use blocks to create safe passages and strategically navigate the Bastion to collect loot, including valuable items like Crying Obsidian and enchanted Golden Ingots.
Beware of Mobs:
The Nether is teeming with dangerous mobs that pose a significant threat to your survival. Blaze enemies can shoot fireballs, Ghasts float and shoot explosive fire charges, and Hoglins and Piglins can attack if provoked. Be vigilant and ready to engage in combat. Bring a Bow with Flame enchantment to deal with Ghasts from a distance. Wearing Gold Armor can help maintain peaceful interactions with Piglins. Torches or other light sources can help prevent mob spawns in areas you've secured.
Consider Nether Travel Strategies:
Navigating the vast distances in the Nether can be challenging. Consider building tunnels or using bridges to connect different locations and establish safe paths. Utilize Fungus and Warped Nylium blocks to create Nylium pathways that allow faster travel. Crafting and utilizing a Soul Speed enchantment on your boots will greatly increase your movement speed when walking on Soul Soil or Soul Sand.
Always Be Prepared:
The Nether is an unpredictable and hazardous environment. Be prepared for unexpected encounters and emergencies. Carry a supply of food, healing potions, and Fire Resistance potions to protect against lava or Blaze attacks. Building a portal close to a safe location in the Overworld is essential for quick escapes in case of danger.
Exploring and gathering resources in the Nether on a 1.9 server requires careful planning, preparation, and a strategic approach. Keep these tips in mind as you venture into this hostile dimension, and always prioritize your safety. With the right equipment, knowledge, and resilience, you'll navigate the challenges of the Nether, gather valuable resources, and emerge victorious from this treacherous realm.
