Minecraft players have a lot to be excited about as Mojang continues to roll out updates more frequently than ever before. Following the Spring to Life drop earlier this year, the next big release—Minecraft 1.21.6, titled Chase the Skies—is on the horizon. Here's everything we know so far about the update’s expected release and its exciting new features.
When is Minecraft 1.21.6 Coming Out?
While there’s no confirmed date just yet, Minecraft 1.21.6 is expected to launch in late June 2025, based on Mojang’s current update schedule. The game recently entered its pre-release phase, with Pre-release 4 arriving on June 10, 2025. This version includes minor bug fixes and is likely the final—or second-to-last—pre-release before the Release Candidate versions begin.
If everything stays on track and no major issues arise, the full release could happen before July 2025.
Key Features in Minecraft 1.21.6
Snapshot 25w20a confirmed all the major features coming to this update. Here's a closer look at the highlights:
🟣 Ghast Family
A brand-new mob evolution system introduces Dried Ghasts, which players can carry in their inventory. Once transported and cared for in the Overworld, they transform into Ghastlings, and eventually into Happy Ghasts. These final forms can even be ridden through the sky, offering a magical way to travel.
🐎 Saddle Crafting
After years of waiting, saddle crafting is finally possible. Previously only found in loot chests, saddles can now be made using a crafting recipe—making horse taming and travel far more accessible for survival players.
🧭 Locator Bar
A new addition to the user interface, the locator bar acts like a navigation compass, marking the location of nearby friends in multiplayer worlds. This is a particularly helpful tool for players on servers and realms.
🪢 Lead Mechanics Overhaul
Leading mobs just got easier. You can now chain multiple mobs or villagers together, and even tie them to a flying Ghast to move several entities all at once.
✈️ Ghast Harness
To ride your Happy Ghast, you’ll need to craft a harness using three leather, two glass blocks, and one wool block. It even includes a pair of vintage-style goggles for extra flair.
Previous Minecraft Drop Dates
Here’s a quick look at the recent update history leading up to 1.21.6:
- Spring to Life – March 25, 2025
- The Garden Awakens – December 3, 2024
- Bundles of Bravery – October 22, 2024
- Armored Paws – April 23, 2024
- Bats and Decorated Pots – December 5, 2023
As Mojang continues to push out smaller, more frequent updates, fans can expect even more creative additions throughout 2025. If you're eager to explore what’s next, snapshots are the perfect way to get hands-on early access and provide feedback before the official release.
Stay tuned and get ready to Chase the Skies in Minecraft 1.21.6!