Minecraft: Should the Nether get another update?

The Nether is one of Minecraft’s most iconic dimensions, offering a nightmarish contrast to the Overworld. During its previous major update, the Nether transformed from a desolate, monotonous hellscape into a dynamic world brimming with unique biomes, mobs, and resources. However, it’s been years since then and it might be time the dimension got another overhaul.

The Nether in Minecraft has come a long way since its inception, becoming a richly detailed and dangerous dimension. However, compared to the Overworld’s diversity and content, the Nether still has room to grow. Another update would be great to flesh out this dimension.

Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and reflect the writer's opinion.

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Looking back at the Nether update

The Nether Update was one of the best updates (Image via Mojang Studios)

Several significant changes were introduced in the Nether update of Minecraft, such as new mobs, items, blocks, biomes, and gameplay mechanics.

Among the new mobs added were piglins, who are hostile unless the players wear gold armor and are capable of bartering with gold ingots. Then there were hoglins, aggressive creatures that drop porkchops and leather. Among others, a new ridable mob called striders was also introduced which can be used for lava-walking.

Notable items from the dimension include netherite, the strongest material for tools and armor. It can be crafted using netherite scraps from smelted ancient debris and respawn anchor, which makes it possible for you to respawn in the dimension.

The Nether update also added new blocks such as nylium, shroomlights, and basalt that offer fresh aesthetics and functionality.

The crimson forest, warped forest, soul sand valley, and basalt delta biomes redefined the Nether's landscape in the update, each with unique features, resources, and ambient sounds. Additionally, structures such as bastion remnants, nether fossils, and ruined portals added new exploration opportunities.

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Why does the Nether need more updates?

There could be a lot of things added to the Nether (Image via Mojang Studios)

Even though significant improvements have been made to the Nether, it could benefit from another update to expand its scope and rival the diversity of the Overworld.

The Overworld in Minecraft has a vast array of biomes. In contrast, the Nether, while much improved, still feels somewhat limited with just five biomes. But adding more could enhance the dimension’s replayability.

The Nether is an ideal playground where we can use unconventional ideas. Imagine bizarre plants with bioluminescent properties, dangerous carnivorous vegetation, or spore clouds that poison players. Introducing more mobs could make exploration even more thrilling and adventurous.

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What could be added to the Nether?

A new weather effect could also be added to the dimension (Image via Mojang Studios)

The previous update added four new biomes, a ton of mobs, structures, and much more. The next Nether update can go a different route by adding less. Two new biomes can be added, one featuring a forest and another one to add new ore and resources. One mob that can swim in the lava sea and one new structure can also be added.

While the Nether should be updated, it shouldn’t just be an expansion, as it should also add some brand-new elements. Random environmental events can spawn within the dimension, causing dangerous weather effects like fiery rains or toxic gas clouds that damage the player. Surviving these storms could yield rare materials or advancements.