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What Blocks Can TNT Not Destroy in Minecraft? A Blast Resistance Guide

In the blocky world of Minecraft, TNT is both a powerful tool and a devastating force of nature. Understanding which blocks can withstand its explosive power is crucial for building secure structures, planning mining operations, and generally surviving the chaotic landscape. So, what blocks remain standing after a TNT blast?

The definitive answer: Bedrock, Command Blocks, End Portal Frames, Obsidian, Crying Obsidian, Anvil, Enchanting Table, Ender Chest, and stationary lava are the only materials that resist a TNT explosion. TNT detonated in water will also not break any blocks, but will still damage entities.

Understanding Blast Resistance

Blast resistance is a numerical value assigned to each block in Minecraft that determines how well it withstands explosions. The higher the blast resistance, the more resistant the block is to damage from explosions like TNT or creeper blasts. Understanding these values is key to building blast-proof structures.

Top-Tier Blast Resistance

Blocks with the highest blast resistance are essentially indestructible by TNT in normal gameplay. These include:

Bedrock: Possessing a blast resistance of 18,000,000, Bedrock is the undisputed king of explosion resistance. It is used to generate the upper and lower bounds of the Overworld, Nether, and End, meaning players cannot obtain this block in survival.
Command Blocks: Command Blocks have a blast resistance of 18,000,000, but are only accessible using commands and not through standard gameplay.
End Portal Frame: With a blast resistance of 18,000,000, End Portal Frames form the structure of the End Portal in Strongholds.
Barrier: This invisible block also has a blast resistance of 18,000,000 and is only obtainable through commands.

High Blast Resistance

These blocks are significantly more difficult to destroy with TNT than most others, making them suitable for blast-resistant constructions:

Obsidian & Crying Obsidian: Both Obsidian and Crying Obsidian have a blast resistance of 6,000. Obsidian is created when water flows over lava source blocks, while Crying Obsidian is found in ruined portals. Obsidian is a popular choice for secure bases and Nether portal surrounds.
Anvil: Anvils are also rated at 6,000, these heavy blocks are used for repairing and renaming items.
Enchanting Table: With a blast resistance of 6,000, these blocks are used to enchant items.
Ender Chest: Ender Chests have a blast resistance of 3,000, offering a measure of protection for your stored items.

Other Notable Resistances

While not completely immune, some blocks offer reasonable resistance:

Reinforced Deepslate: Added in the Trails & Tales Update, this block has a blast resistance of 1,200
Respawn Anchor: Used to set respawn points in the Nether, this has a blast resistance of 1,200.
End Stone: End Stone, found in the End dimension, has a blast resistance slightly higher than regular stone, making it a decent choice for blast-resistant structures if obsidian farming is too tedious.
Lava (Stationary): While flowing lava can be dispersed by explosions, a source block of stationary lava will remain intact.

Using Water to Neutralize TNT

A unique mechanic in Minecraft is the ability to negate TNT’s block-destroying power by detonating it in water or lava. When TNT explodes underwater or in lava, it still damages entities within range, but it does not destroy any blocks. This is useful for clearing mobs or damaging players without altering the terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify TNT resistance in Minecraft:

1. Can TNT destroy Netherite armor?

No, a player wearing Netherite armor does not take damage from TNT explosions. Netherite armor provides significant protection against explosions, making it a top-tier choice for survival.

2. Does TNT destroy everything in Minecraft?

No, TNT does not destroy everything. Blocks with high blast resistance, such as Bedrock and Obsidian, are immune. Furthermore, only about 30% of the blocks destroyed by TNT will drop resources, while the other 70% are lost. Items caught in the explosion are also destroyed.

3. How do you make TNT that does not destroy blocks?

To create TNT that doesn’t destroy blocks, simply detonate it underwater or in lava. The explosion will still damage entities, but the surrounding blocks will remain intact.

4. Is cobblestone blast resistant?

Cobblestone offers some degree of blast resistance. It’s more resistant than dirt or sand, making it a reasonably good building block. However, it will still be destroyed by a direct TNT blast.

5. Does TNT destroy lava source blocks?

Stationary lava is resistant to TNT and will not be destroyed by it.

6. Do shields block TNT in Minecraft?

No, shields cannot block TNT explosions. While a shield will reduce damage from some types of attacks, it offers no protection against explosions.

7. Why won’t my TNT explode in Minecraft?

TNT requires a source of ignition to explode. You can use flint and steel, fire, lava, or a redstone signal to ignite it. A common method is to use a flaming arrow.

8. What is the rarest block in Minecraft survival?

The Dragon Egg is arguably the rarest block, as there is only one per world. While the Dragon Egg is rare, it can still be destroyed by TNT.

9. Can you make TNT explode but not destroy blocks?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, detonating TNT underwater or in lava will prevent it from destroying blocks.

10. Is obsidian immune to TNT?

While not completely immune, Obsidian has a very high blast resistance and cannot be destroyed by a single TNT explosion. It requires a significant amount of TNT to break Obsidian.

11. Can TNT break obsidian?

It can’t be broken from a single explosion.

12. What is the strongest TNT in Minecraft?

The power of TNT is determined by how many blocks are adjacent to it.

13. What is the top 5 rarest block in Minecraft?

The top 5 rarest blocks in Minecraft are: Dragon Egg, Emerald Ore, Pink Wool, Bee Nest, Gold Block.

14. Can TNT explode without fire?

TNT requires a source of ignition.

15. Where can I learn more about games and education?

You can explore the educational aspects of games, including Minecraft, by visiting the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. This organization focuses on the intersection of games and learning, providing valuable insights and resources for educators and game enthusiasts alike. GamesLearningSociety.org is dedicated to furthering understanding and application of game-based learning methodologies.

Conclusion

Knowing which blocks can withstand TNT explosions is vital for surviving and thriving in Minecraft. Whether you’re building a secure base, planning a controlled demolition, or simply exploring the world, understanding blast resistance will give you a significant advantage. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle any explosive situation Minecraft throws your way!

What blocks can TNT not destroy in Minecraft?