What is netherite and when was it added?

Who this is for: Minecraft players wanting to understand the game’s strongest material and its history.


Ready to put your netherite knowledge to the test? Play minecraft games and start your journey toward crafting the ultimate gear!

Play free games on Playgama.com

What is Netherite?

Netherite is the strongest and most durable material in Minecraft, surpassing even diamond in both durability and effectiveness. This rare material creates the most powerful tools, weapons, and armor in the game, offering superior protection and mining speed compared to any other material.

When Was Netherite Added to Minecraft?

Netherite was officially added to Minecraft in the Nether Update (version 1.16), which was released on June 23, 2020. The material was first introduced in snapshot 20w06a in February 2020, giving players several months to test it before the full release.

Key Properties of Netherite

  • Higher durability: Netherite tools and armor last significantly longer than diamond equivalents
  • Increased damage: Netherite weapons deal more damage than diamond weapons
  • Better protection: Netherite armor provides superior defense and knockback resistance
  • Fire immunity: Netherite items don’t burn in lava or fire, making them incredibly valuable
  • Faster mining: Netherite tools mine blocks slightly faster than diamond tools

How to Obtain Netherite

Getting netherite requires a multi-step process that makes it one of the rarest materials in the game:

  1. Mine Ancient Debris in the Nether (found between Y-levels 8-22)
  2. Smelt Ancient Debris in a furnace to create Netherite Scraps
  3. Combine 4 Netherite Scraps with 4 Gold Ingots in a crafting table to make 1 Netherite Ingot
  4. Upgrade diamond gear using a Smithing Table with your Netherite Ingot

Why Netherite Changed the Game

Before netherite’s introduction, diamond represented the pinnacle of Minecraft equipment. The addition of netherite created a new end-game goal and gave players a reason to venture deeper into the dangerous Nether dimension. Its fire immunity alone makes it invaluable for Nether exploration and lava-filled mining expeditions.

The material’s rarity and the complex process required to obtain it ensures that netherite gear feels truly special when you finally craft it. Whether you’re building the ultimate survival base or preparing for the toughest challenges, understanding netherite is essential for any serious Minecraft player looking to master the game’s mechanics.

TL;DR

Netherite is Minecraft’s strongest material, added in the Nether Update (version 1.16) on June 23, 2020. It creates superior tools, weapons, and armor that surpass diamond in durability and effectiveness.

Author avatar

Joyst1ck

Gaming Writer & HTML5 Developer

Answering gaming questions—from Roblox and Minecraft to the latest indie hits. I write developer‑focused HTML5 articles and share practical tips on game design, monetisation, and scripting.

  • #GamingFAQ
  • #GameDev
  • #HTML5
  • #GameDesign
All posts by Joyst1ck →

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Games categories