Unlocking the Power: What Block Do You Put a Nether Star On?
Have you ever stared at a hard-earned Nether Star in Minecraft, wondering what block holds the key to unlocking its true potential? Obtaining a Nether Star is no small feat, requiring you to defeat the formidable Wither. This rare and powerful item holds the key to crafting one of the most beneficial structures in the game: the Beacon. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide, revealing exactly what block you need to place that precious Nether Star on to create a fully functioning Beacon and reap its incredible rewards. We’ll delve into the intricacies of Beacon construction, the different blocks you can use for the base, and how to harness the power it provides.
The Nether Star and Its Purpose
The Nether Star is arguably one of the most sought-after items in Minecraft’s endgame. It is the unique drop of the Wither, a challenging boss mob summoned by placing four Soul Sand/Soul Soil in a T-shape and topping it with three Wither Skeleton Skulls. Defeating the Wither is a battle of attrition, requiring careful planning, powerful equipment, and a safe location. Once vanquished, it drops a single Nether Star.
The rarity and difficulty in obtaining the Nether Star contribute to its high value. It’s not just a trophy; it’s a crucial ingredient for crafting a Beacon, a powerful light source that grants status effects to nearby players. While the Nether Star has a few other minor uses, such as crafting respawn anchors, its primary and most significant purpose is undeniably to create Beacons. These beacons, when powered, emit a beam of light that stretches into the sky, signaling a zone of influence where players can benefit from enhanced abilities.
The Key: Beacon Base Requirements
The secret to unlocking a Beacon’s potential lies not just in the Nether Star, but also in the structure beneath it. The Nether Star itself doesn’t directly interact with just any block. It needs to be placed atop a carefully constructed pyramid made of specific materials. These materials are crucial because they form the foundation upon which the Beacon’s power is amplified and channeled. There are a few key block choices that will work to create the layers and base that is needed to create a Beacon. All materials are endgame blocks and can require a time and material investment to create.
The Prime Choice: Obsidian
Obsidian is an interesting option because it can be placed withing the layers itself and does not have to be a complete layer. Obsidian is not commonly used because it has no real advantage to using other blocks. While this is a solid choice, it does have downsides that make it less desireable.
Diamond Block Benefits
Diamond blocks are a luxurious choice for a Beacon base, reflecting their value and rarity in the game. Using diamond blocks instantly signifies wealth and dedication. Diamond Blocks are one of the better choices.
Emerald Block Benefits
Emerald blocks, similar to diamond blocks, represent a significant investment of resources and effort. Emeralds are primarily obtained through trading with villagers, making this choice a testament to the player’s trading skills and established relationships with the local communities. Emerald Blocks are one of the better choices.
Gold Block Benefits
Gold blocks offer a more readily obtainable option compared to diamonds or emeralds. Gold is relatively easier to mine, especially in the Badlands biomes, making it a somewhat more accessible material for constructing a Beacon base. While gold is softer and less durable in other applications, its performance as a Beacon base is identical to the other material options. Gold Blocks are one of the better choices.
Iron Block Benefits
Iron blocks are arguably the most practical and widely used material for constructing a Beacon base. Iron is abundant in Minecraft, found in virtually every biome and easily mined. This makes it a cost-effective and sustainable choice for players of all levels. Iron Blocks are one of the better choices.
Building the Beacon Structure
A functional Beacon requires a specific structure. It’s not simply a matter of placing blocks haphazardly. The Beacon needs a layered pyramid base to operate effectively. The base can consist of one to four layers, each built with the blocks mentioned earlier. The size of the base determines the Beacon’s power and the range of effects it can grant.
Let’s break down the construction process:
Layer One (The Foundation): The first and largest layer is a square, nine blocks by nine blocks. This layer forms the base of the entire structure and must be made entirely of your chosen material (diamond, emerald, gold, or iron blocks).
Layer Two: The second layer sits on top of the first, forming a seven-by-seven square. Again, this layer must be constructed entirely of the chosen material.
Layer Three: The third layer continues the pyramid shape with a five-by-five square.
Layer Four (The Top): The final layer is a three-by-three square, completing the pyramid structure.
After you have completed this base, you will need to select the center block on the top layer. That is where you will place the Beacon itself. Make sure this layer is centered.
Activating the Beacon with the Nether Star
With the pyramid base complete, the final step is to activate the Beacon with the Nether Star.
- Craft the Beacon: Combine five Glass, three Obsidian, and one Nether Star in a crafting table. This will create the Beacon block itself.
- Placement: Place the Beacon block directly on top of the center block of the top layer of your pyramid.
- Activation: Once placed, the Beacon will initially appear inactive. To activate it, simply interact with it (right-click or use the designated button on your controller). This will open a GUI.
- The Offering: Drag the Nether Star into the designated slot in the GUI. This “fuels” the Beacon, activating its effects.
- Confirmation: The Beacon will visually change upon activation, emitting a beam of light that shoots skyward. You’ll also hear a distinct chime.
If the Beacon does not activate, there are a few common issues to check:
- Obstruction: Ensure there are no blocks directly above the Beacon, obstructing its beam. This includes leaves, solid blocks, and even transparent blocks like glass.
- Centering: Make sure the Beacon is precisely centered on top of the pyramid.
- Material: Double-check that the base is constructed entirely of the acceptable materials.
Beacon Functionality and Benefits
Once the Beacon is activated, you can choose the primary effect it will grant to players within its range. The available effects depend on the size of the base. A larger base unlocks more powerful and beneficial effects. The effects are divided into two categories: primary and secondary. The primary effect is always active within the Beacon’s range, while the secondary effect is only active when the player is near the base of the Beacon.
Some of the available primary effects include:
- Speed: Increases movement speed.
- Haste: Increases mining speed.
- Resistance: Reduces incoming damage.
- Jump Boost: Increases jump height.
- Strength: Increases melee damage.
The secondary effect is always Regeneration, a powerful ability that slowly restores health.
The range of the Beacon’s effects also depends on the size of the base. A larger base extends the range of the Beacon, allowing more players to benefit from its effects. To maximize the Beacon’s effectiveness, strategically place it in a central location, such as your base or a frequently traveled area.
You can change the Beacon’s effect at any time by interacting with it and selecting a different option from the GUI. This allows you to adapt the Beacon’s benefits to your current needs.
By building the larger beacon, you have more potential abilities that can be selected and utilized. This creates a zone where the players are able to work much easier and faster in their builds.
Conclusion
Unlocking the power of the Nether Star and crafting a Beacon is a significant achievement in Minecraft. It requires dedication, resourcefulness, and a solid understanding of the game’s mechanics. As we’ve detailed, you can use diamond blocks, emerald blocks, gold blocks, or iron blocks. Remember, the key lies in constructing a solid pyramid base.
The Beacon is more than just a light source; it’s a symbol of progress, a testament to your accomplishments, and a powerful tool that enhances your gameplay experience. So, gather your resources, defeat the Wither, and build your own Beacon. The enhanced abilities and improved efficiency it provides will transform your Minecraft world and empower you to achieve even greater feats. The Nether Star unlocks incredible power; now you know exactly how to unleash it. Build your beacon today!
