Defeating the Ender Dragon marks one of the most iconic challenges in Minecraft. However, reaching The End requires preparation, strategic planning, and essential resources. This guide breaks down everything needed—from crafting portals to engaging in the final showdown with the dragon.
Gathering Essentials for the Journey
Before entering The End, a few key items must be obtained to set the stage for the adventure.
Diamond Pickaxe: A Core Tool
Securing a diamond pickaxe is a top priority. This tool is necessary for mining obsidian, which in turn is required to construct a Nether portal. Additionally, it allows players to collect more diamonds to upgrade equipment.
Constructing the Nether Portal
Once enough obsidian has been mined, it’s time to create a Nether portal. Upon entering the Nether, the goal is to locate a nether brick fortress. These structures typically house Blaze spawners, which are critical to your progression.
Collecting Blaze Rods and Ender Pearls
Farming Blaze Rods
Inside the fortress, find the Blaze spawner but avoid destroying it. Instead, use it to farm Blaze mobs until six Blaze rods are obtained. A practical method to defeat Blazes efficiently is by using snowballs, which deal significant damage.
Hunting Endermen for Ender Pearls
Back in the Overworld, the next task is to gather Ender Pearls by defeating Endermen. As these mobs drop pearls sporadically, patience is required. Aim to collect at least 12 pearls to craft Eyes of Ender.
Locating the End Portal
After crafting Eyes of Ender by combining Blaze powder and Ender Pearls, throw an Eye into the air. It will drift toward the direction of the nearest stronghold containing the End Portal. Continue following its path until it no longer moves—this indicates you’re directly above the portal. Dig downward to reveal the stronghold.
Activating the Portal and Entering The End
Insert one Eye of Ender into each frame block around the portal, completing the 12-block frame. Once all Eyes are placed, the portal will activate, allowing entry to The End dimension.
Battling the Ender Dragon
Inside The End, players will face the Ender Dragon and numerous Endermen. Around the area are tall obsidian towers topped with crystals that continuously heal the dragon. These must be destroyed first, often by climbing or shooting with a bow. Once the healing crystals are eliminated, focus attacks on the dragon, especially when it lands in the central area. An enchanted bow is particularly effective for dealing sustained damage during flight.