Unlocking the Secrets of Sticky Pistons: Can They Really Move Two Blocks?

So, you’re diving deep into the world of Minecraft redstone and the question arises: Can a sticky piston move two blocks at once? The answer, as with most things in Minecraft, is a bit nuanced. While it’s not as simple as a straight “yes” or “no,” understanding the mechanics behind sticky pistons and their interactions with different blocks is key. In short, a sticky piston cannot directly pull two non-slimy blocks simultaneously. However, by cleverly using slime blocks, you can effectively achieve a similar result. Let’s delve into the specifics.

The One-Block Rule and the Slime Block Exception

The fundamental principle governing sticky pistons is that they are designed to pull only one block back with them on retraction, aside from the use of slime blocks. This is a core mechanic programmed into the game, ensuring that redstone contraptions behave predictably and reliably (most of the time!). When activated, a sticky piston extends and pushes up to 12 blocks in a row. But when the current deactivates, it’s only bringing one block with it, usually.

However, that usually is where the fun begins. Enter the slime block. Slime blocks have a unique property: they stick to adjacent blocks. When a sticky piston pulls a slime block, any non-movable blocks attached to the slime block will also be dragged along. This is crucial.

This creates a situation where, indirectly, a sticky piston appears to be moving more than one block. For example, if you have a slime block with a regular block attached to it, and the sticky piston pulls the slime block, the regular block will come along for the ride. In this scenario, you’ve effectively moved two blocks, but the sticky piston is only directly interacting with the slime block.

Limitations and Considerations

It’s important to note that there are limitations to this technique.

• Immovable Blocks: Blocks like obsidian, bedrock, and end portal frames cannot be moved by sticky pistons, even with slime blocks. If any of these blocks obstruct the path of a block attached to a slime block, the sticky piston will retract, but the obstructed block won’t move, and the slime block will stay put.

• Block Count: While slime blocks can allow you to move more than one block, the overall limit of 12 blocks that a piston can push still applies. This includes the slime block itself.

• Redstone Tick Speed: The length of the pulse activating the sticky piston is crucial. Too short a pulse (less than 3 game ticks in Java Edition) can cause the sticky piston to “drop” the block it’s meant to be pulling, leaving it behind.

Why is this important?

Understanding these nuances is vital for building complex redstone systems. Whether you’re creating hidden doors, automated farms, or elaborate contraptions, knowing how sticky pistons interact with different blocks is essential for success. Experimentation is always encouraged in Minecraft, so try different configurations and see what you can discover! The beauty of Minecraft redstone is in the problem-solving and the creative application of these mechanics. You can learn much more about the dynamics of learning within games at the GamesLearningSociety.org website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sticky Pistons

1. What blocks can sticky pistons not move?

Obsidian, bedrock, command blocks, and end portal frames are immovable. In Java Edition, hoppers and dispensers also cannot be moved. Some blocks, such as glazed terracotta, can be pushed but not pulled. Crying obsidian cannot be moved.

2. Can a sticky piston move a slab?

A sticky piston will not pull a bottom slab up, or a top slab down. It will retract but not move the slab. If you push a top slab up, it becomes a bottom slab.

3. Can a sticky piston pull a slime block?

Yes, slime blocks can be pulled by sticky pistons. This is how you can indirectly move more than one block, but only when the blocks are attached to the slime blocks.

4. Can sticky pistons pull multiple blocks?

A sticky piston can push up to twelve blocks in a row when engaged, but will only pull one back with it when disengaged unless you’re using a slime block.

5. How many blocks can a sticky piston move?

A sticky piston can push up to twelve blocks and pull only one (aside from when using slime blocks).

6. Can a sticky piston move a Redstone block?

Yes. When powered, the sticky piston will extend. If there is a redstone block in front of it, the piston will push it, potentially activating a circuit. When the sticky piston retracts, it pulls the redstone block back, deactivating the circuit.

7. Can sticky pistons move trapdoors?

Yes. Placing a piston on the side of one of the other two blocks so it faces the iron trapdoor. Activate the piston, and it will push the iron trapdoor to the next block.

8. Can a sticky piston push another sticky piston?

A (sticky)piston can push (and pull) another piston in an inactive state, but cannot push or pull another activated piston.

9. Can crying obsidian be pushed by a piston?

No. Crying obsidian cannot be pushed or pulled by pistons or sticky pistons.

10. Why is my sticky piston not pushing?

In Java Edition, pistons finish extending early and start retracting if given a pulse shorter than 3 game ticks (1.5 redstone ticks; 0.15 seconds). These shorter pulses cause sticky pistons to “drop” their block.

11. Can sticky pistons pull hoppers?

In Java Edition, pistons can’t move hoppers or dispensers. In Bedrock, hoppers can be moved.

12. What blocks are immovable in Bedrock Edition?

In Minecraft Bedrock Edition, only obsidian, bedrock, and end portal frames are immovable by slime blocks connected to sticky pistons.

13. What is an alternative to sticky pistons?

An alternative to sticky pistons is a piston mod that may add an alternative sticky piston made with another sticky substance: honey!

14. What is the hardest block that can be moved by a piston?

• Netherite (push and pull, won’t break when exploded)

• Anvil (java: push but not pulled, bedrock: can be pushed and pulled, but if supported from underneath)

• Glazed terracotta (pushed but not pulled, does not stick to slime/honey blocks)

15. What blocks cannot be pulled by pistons?

Obsidian, bedrock, command blocks, and end portals cannot be pushed by pistons. Other blocks, such as glazed terracotta, can be pushed but not pulled.

Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any confusion about the capabilities of sticky pistons in Minecraft. Remember to experiment and have fun exploring the endless possibilities of redstone. Check out the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for more information on how games impact learning.