Minecraftarmor patterns, or “trims,” were added via the Trails and Tales update. These injected a new fashion style to the game and significantly refreshed the armor appearance. The armor patterns are unfortunately cosmetic-only inMinecraft, which means that players will receive no additional protection or utility whether they pick one or the other.
Regardless, now thatMinecraftarmor patterns exist, it’s perhaps time for Mojang Studios to look into coming up with something similar for weapons and shields as well. The developer will be officially adding a new weapon, the Mace, via theMinecraft1.21 Tricky Trials update; this shows continued interest in improving the combat experience. But considering the role thatMinecraftarmor patterns now play, the big picture looks incomplete without weapon and shield cosmetics.
How Minecraft Armor Patterns Should Extend to Weapons and Shields
Minecraftarmor patterns present thousands of possible combinations for players to integrate into their gameplay, if they do not wish to restrict themselves to diamond orNetherite weapons and toolsfor that resource’s aesthetic. Since these smithing templates are already present, not adding weapon and shield patterns in the future may be amiss. There are some limitations that come to mind, but there’s nothing insurmountable for a studio as creative as Mojang.
For example, adding a “trim” to a sword or a pickaxe might be difficult. There isn’t much space for colored patterns, and forcing a pattern of sorts may make the appearance look odd. Adding a hilt with a gem can work, but going for something more visually striking is perhaps the better route to take. In the same vein, adding shield patterns looks intriguing, given that customization is currently limited tomaking a banner for aMinecraftshield’s face. However, there is another restriction wherein a shield is made only out of wood and iron, and cannot be upgraded to diamond or netherite for utility or aesthetic purposes.
As such, adding a weapon or shield pattern may involve more thought, like changing the shape instead of just adding a “colored trim.” A weapon pattern that changes the standard sword into a scimitar or a katana would help in pushing aesthetic appeal as well as player imagination. Changing the hitbox for thenewMinecraft1.21 weapon mace, sword, or others may be a bit of a trouble, but altering the standard appearance for a similar-sized model may be easy enough.
Similarly, changing the shape of the shield to something more circular like Captain America’s or even a classic shield shape with a rounded bottom would add room for more customization and might even obstruct less screen area when being used. Further evolution could look likeKratos’ shield inGod of War Ragnarok, where the gear is completely retractable and embossed with runes. Adding such a shield pattern inMinecraftcould further flesh out the game’s lore as well.
Where to Find All Minecraft Armor Trims
There are currently 16armor trims inMinecraftthat players can collect from either chest loot or by brushing suspicious gravel blocks via a brush. Two more will be added via the Minecraft 1.21 Tricky Trials update - Bolt (from Trial Chambers' vaults, duplicated with copper or waxed copper block) and Flow (from Trial Chambers' Ominous Vaults, duplicated with Breeze Rods).
All armor trims are found in their own corresponding areas, with varying spawn percentages. If players have a particular type of armor trim, they can simply duplicate it using the corresponding block and seven diamonds via a Smithing Table.
Mossy Cobblestone
Jungle Temples
Until more armor patterns, along with those for weapons and shields, are added, players may have to look towards thebestMinecraftcombat modsfor a more fulfilling experience. The 1.21 update seems determined to enhance combat as well, if not through shield or weapon cosmetics.
Minecraft
WHERE TO PLAY
Minecraft is a game made up of blocks, creatures, and community. You can survive the night or build a work of art – the choice is all yours. But if the thought of exploring a vast new world all on your own feels overwhelming, then fear not!Minecraft has no set goal and can be played however you’d like! This is why it’s sometimes called a “sandbox game” – there are lots of things for you to do, and lots of ways that you can play. If you like being creative, then you can use the blocks to build things from your imagination. If you’re feeling brave, you can explore the world and face daring challenges. Blocks can be broken, crafted, placed to reshape the landscape, or used to build fantastical creations.Creatures can be battled or befriended, depending on how you play. The world of Minecraft allows for epic adventures, quiet meditations, and everything in between. You can even share your creations with other players, or play in community worlds!
