Minecraft's Caves & Cliffs update, also known as Minecraft 1.17, will now be split into two separate updates. Collectively, the Caves & Cliffs expansion will be the biggest delivered by Mojang Studios so far, extending the bottom of the world, overhauling mechanics for caves, and changing the way ore looks and spawns.
Minecraft updates can sometimes be underwhelming, as they often include content similar to that previously released in community-made modpacks. But Minecraft Caves & Cliffs has piqued fans' interest, as it will overhaul mechanics that have been frustrating players for years. Its big alterations include changes to how cave systems spawn and a much-needed redesign of the previously bleak and uninteresting mountain biome.
In a blog post, Mojang Studios said Minecraft 1.17 has presented major challenges. Mojang Studios said that, if the entire update was released on its initially planned summer 2021 launch date, Minecraft Caves & Cliffs could "wreak havoc on [players'] meticulously crafted worlds" with bugs and other issues. Some of these stem from "significant technical challenges" brought on by the ways the update will dramatically change Minecraft's overworld, which the developer said could slow the game down if not properly optimized. Caves & Cliffs' two-part release will allow time to iron out the finishing touches on the update's more troublesome changes.
Minecraft's 1.17 Caves & Cliffs Updates Are Both Planned For 2021
While the delay will be disappointing for those eager to get their hands on the Minecraft Caves & Cliffs, the release date change isn't actually too drastic. Mojang Studios is optimistic that both of Minecraft's 1.17 updates will release during the course of 2021. The first part is anticipated for the original release window this summer, and the second is planned to launch during the 2021 holiday season.
Mojang Studios also said a big reason for Minecraft 1.17's two-part split is the company's consideration for its development team. In order to meet the original deadline, Minecraft staff would have had to work "very long hours; and even then, there would’ve been no guarantee that everything would be finished on time," so the team made the decision to push part of Minecraft Caves & Cliffs back. Additionally, as is the case for many game developers at the moment, working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic has put strains on Mojang Studios' productivity, contributing to the delay.
Source: Mojang Studios