Minecraft Patch Notes Cover New Combat Features and More

Following its beta release earlier this month, Minecraft's "Combat" update launched in full today, February 29. The update introduces a number of new features, perhaps the most notable of which are a series of combat-themed mechanics, including shields, dual-wielding, and more.

In addition to the combat mechanics, Minecraft's 1.9 update adds a new mob (Shulker), as well new Purpor and End Rod blocks. Also, the update adds new sound effects and igloos.

Below is a list of new and changed features for Minecraft 1.9, but note that Mojang explains in a blog post that it's an "almost complete" rundown of items.

This update is out now on PC and will presumably roll out for the console editions of Minecraft in the time ahead.

Minecraft 1.9 New and Changed Features Include:

• Added shields
• Attacking now has a "cool-down" delay, making it more important to time your attacks
• You can now hold items in both hands (default quick key to swap items is 'F')
• Swords have a special sweep attack
• Axes have a special crushing blow attack
• Added the elytra
• New mob: Shulker
• Expanded The End
• Added Chorus plants
• New Purpur blocks
• New End Rod block
• Added dragon head block
• Ender Dragon can be resummoned
• Added beetroot and beetroot soup (from MC:PE)
• Added grass path block
• Added igloos
• Armor protection values have been lowered
• Added tipped arrows
• Added spectral arrows
• Added Frost Walker enchantment and frosted ice block
• Added a whole bunch of new sound effects
• Added sound effect subtitles
• Brewing Stand now requires Blaze Powder to activate
• Added skeleton riders
• We believe we've fixed MC-10 and a whole bunch of other issues
• Removed Herobrine