What Does the Density Enchantment Do in Minecraft?

The "Tricky Trials" update (1.21) introduced the Mace, a heavy-hitting weapon crafted from a Heavy Core and a Breeze Rod. But a Mace on its own is just the beginning. To truly unlock one-shot potential, you need the new Density enchantment.

But what exactly does Density do, and is it worth the enchantment table slot?

How Density Works

Density is a Common enchantment unique to the Mace. It increases the damage dealt per block fallen during a smash attack.

• The Mechanic: The Mace already scales damage based on how far you fall before hitting an enemy.
• The Buff: Density adds extra damage per fallen block to that calculation.

Specifically, it adds 0.5 hearts (1 damage) per block fallen per level of Density.

• Density I: +1 damage per block fallen.
• Density V: +5 damage per block fallen.

Why It Is Overpowered

Without Density, falling 5 blocks and hitting a zombie deals decent damage. With Density V, that same 5-block fall adds a massive 25 extra damage on top of the base impact.

This allows you to one-shot players or bosses (like the Warden) from much lower heights than before. It turns verticality into your strongest weapon.

Density vs. Breach

You can apply Density, Breach, and Smite/Bane of Arthropods to a Mace, but some are mutually exclusive.

• Density: Increases raw damage based on fall height. (Best for general use).
• Breach: Reduces the effectiveness of the enemy's armor. (Best for PvP against Netherite tank players).

Getting the Best Gear

To test the Mace properly, you’ll need a server that supports the latest 1.21 features without lag. Whether you are building a PvP arena or hunting for Heavy Cores in Trial Chambers,BerryByte Minecraft Hostingensures your hits register perfectly every time.

Not sure how to install the latest snapshot or update? Check our knowledge base article onChanging Your Server Versionto get your server updated to 1.21 instantly.