Mojang has confirmed the Mounts of Mayhem update for Minecraft, arriving later this year as the final drop of 2025. The update introduces new rideable mobs and a spear weapon, building on the game's quarterly update schedule. Based on recent snapshots, a release around December 16 is anticipated.
Release Details
The Mounts of Mayhem update follows Minecraft's pattern of quarterly 'drops,' which deliver thematic changes more frequently than annual overhauls. Revealed during the Minecraft Live broadcast in September 2025, the update is slated for release 'this year.' The 25w45a snapshot, released on November 4, 2025, marks the 'final testing moment,' according to Mojang, paving the way for release candidates and a potential launch on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Updates typically deploy around 8am PDT / 11am EDT / 4pm BST, though platform-specific delays may occur. The version number remains unclear, possibly 1.21.11 or 1.22.
Previous drops in 2025 include Spring to Life on March 25, Chase the Skies on June 17, Lava Chicken on June 30, and The Copper Age on September 30, all landing on Tuesdays.
New Features
Mounts of Mayhem adds underwater and surface mobility options. The Nautilus, a rideable mob inspired by existing nautilus shells, allows dashing across seas while granting the 'Breath of the Nautilus' status effect to prevent drowning during rides.
On land, zombie horses enter survival mode for the first time, spawning with zombies armed with spears. These undead riders pose new threats in combat.
The spear weapon complements the mounts, enabling damage to enemies while riding—lower it to strike ahead. It supports jousting in PvP and ranged attacks in general play, but users must watch for counterattacks from armed foes.
Players can test these features early via Java snapshots, Minecraft Preview, and Bedrock Beta, though backups are recommended to avoid world corruption.