No Minecraft 12w35a snapshot this week - It's PAX time!

Mojang are off to PAX Prime this week so they'll be no Minecraft 12w35a snapshot. You'll just have to wait another week for the next update. We've got an idea what to expect though, it's going to be new blocks, new superflat customizations and even controllable pigs. Read more about the new features below.

Rideable Pigs with direction control

You've been able to ride a pig for quite some time now, ever since 2010, but you've never been able to control their direction. In the next snapshot (likely to be 12w36a), you'll be able to control the direction of the pig, just like you're riding a horse. You'll get a first person view on top of the pigs back (see image).

To control a pig you'll need to combine a fishing rod with the new carrot vegetable. You'll then be able to dangle the carrot in front of the pig to tempt him in one direction or another. Pigs need to accelerate up to their top speed but once achieved, pigs can travel at about 5 blocks per second.

Support for more colours and texture pack customisations

Nathan has been toying with the idea of making maps support more colours. This will also play into the hands of the texture pack designers who'll be able to create even richer visuals.

Think of your favourite HD textures with even more realism!

Zombies carrying blocks

If you go by Jeb's latest screenshot, the next snapshot will include changes to zombies behaviour. They'll be able to carry blocks with them on their travels. So not only can they knock down doors, but they'll be able to move blocks around too.

That sounds like a recipe for chaos!

New block - Skeleton head decoration

Jeb's added some new decorative blocks that resemble a skeletons head. They're stone in nature, but the perfect representation of the skeleton head - just like a gargoyle.

The exact size of the new block appears to be half the width of a normal block but the same height (see image).

Customizable SuperFlat worlds

Players will be able to choose the exact block type and depth for their custom SuperFlat worlds. Choose any block type, the number of layers and the starting height (y offset) and let minecraft build that world for you. No more need for map editors when you've got these quick world customization options.