Minecraft on Consoles Gets Horses, Bats, and More

Developer 4J Studios is rolling out a big update to all the console versions of Minecraft that adds a lot of features that are already implemented in the PC version.

The Minecraft update adds the ability to tame and ride horses, new mobs like wither, bats, and witches, and a bunch of new items.

Some other interesting new additions:

• Zombies and Skeletons can now spawn with different weapons and armor.
• Added 'Adventure Mode' - You can only break blocks with the correct tools.
• Added Fireworks - Fireworks interface is accessible from the Crafting Table when you have the ingredients to craft a Firework Star or Firework Rocket.
• The longer you remain in an area the harder the monsters that spawn in that area will be.

You can find the long list of what's included in the update on 4J Studios' website.

If that all sounds new and complicated, don't worry. The update also introduces a brand-new Tutorial Word that teaches players how to use these new features, as well as teaching newcomers how to play Minecraft. It also includes a challenge which has you searching this starter world for hidden Music Discs.

The new update has already rolled out to Xbox One, Xbox 360, and PlayStation platforms in Europe. The update is still in testing for PlayStation platforms in North America, but 4J Studios said it hopes to have more news on it early this week.

Emanuel Maiberg is a freelance writer. You can follow him on Twitter @emanuelmaiberg.