Minecraft Live 2026: The Sift, Dungeons II, underground ice caves, and Switch 2 arrival

# What changed at Minecraft Live

Minecraft Live revealed multiple updates across the franchise: a brand-new dimension called the Sift, a deep dive into Minecraft Dungeons II, a new underground ice caves biome, creative tool changes and sound packs for the Marketplace, and a Switch 2 release date for the main game.

The Sift — a fourth dimension

Minecraft, joining the Overworld, Nether and End. It debuts in Minecraft Dungeons II and is confirmed for Java and Bedrock Editions of the main game in 2027. Mojang has not released detailed mechanics yet, but the Sift contains its own biomes and mobs and will introduce new content players can use across the franchise.

Minecraft Dungeons II: what's new

Dungeons II keeps the core co-op hack-and-slash but changes several systems:

• Visuals: a more colorful art style.
• Movement: jumping is added.
• Combat and progression: armor is organized into four pieces like the main game and talismans provide passive effects.
• Level design: larger, interconnected levels that emphasize exploration over strictly linear mission selection.
• Story: a new narrative tied to the Deep Dark and Ancient Cities, with Warden-themed threats.

Dungeons II long before it ships to the main game.

Underground ice caves

A new rare underground biome expands the cold biome family. Key points:

• Resource focus: ore-rich areas and easy ice sources.

• New mob: the frozen zombie, which throws ice balls and can freeze players with repeated melee hits. Players can throw ice balls back and use them in combat or crafting (freezing potions).
• Farming note: seasoned players can spawn ice zombies by exposing a vanilla zombie to powdered snow.

Creative mode and Marketplace changes

Mojang outlined changes to how player-created content is made and distributed:

• Sound packs: a set of new sound effect packs will be sold on the Marketplace so creators and players can alter audio in builds and the base game. These are paid items.

Platform and real-world tie-ins

• Switch 2: Minecraft's main game will release on Nintendo Switch 2 on October 27, 2026, with upgraded visuals similar to current Xbox and PlayStation versions.
• Real-world: announcements included a Minecraft-themed area at Chessington World of Adventure in the UK and a themed hotel, details targeted at UK audiences.

# What's next for players

Expect more details about the Sift, creative tools, and Marketplace packs between now and next year. Minecraft Dungeons II releases on September 29, 2026, and the main game gets the Sift in 2027. The ice caves and their mechanics will arrive sooner as part of the ongoing seasonal or patch updates detailed at the show.