Around the Block: Small End Islands

Of all Minecraft’s biomes, I’d bet big money that one of the most rarely discussed – let alone visited – are the small End islands. But this column is about all of Minecraft’s biomes, not just the super-fun ones, so today we’re packing our suitcase and an elytra and taking a trip to the Small End Islands. Wish you were here (instead of me)!

Small End islands started floating in the void of The End in the Update Aquatic in February 2018. The terrain actually existed before that, but that was when it got a name of its own. Originally that name was “The End – Floating island”, but during the snapshot phase it got tweaked to what it is now.

There are several reasons why the small End islands are rarely talked about. First, the biome only exists in Java Edition – Bedrock Edition’s version of The End consists solely of one enormous biome called simply “The End”. Much easier. Second, the small End islands are separated from the central island where players arrive in the End by about a thousand blocks.

Thirdly and most importantly, well, there’s not much there. You can expect a few small floating islands in this biome, a handful of Endermen doing whatever it is that Endermen do, and not much else. End cities don’t spawn here. Chorus trees don’t spawn here. It’s the perfect place to create something out of nothing!

So why would you want to visit? Well, it’s a good place to hide out if you “accidentally” covered your friend’s base with lava and want to avoid repercussions. It’s a great place to pick up lots of end stone blocks without taking chunks out of the central End island. And it’s not bad for farming ender pearls either, thanks to the endless Endermen that like to hang out here. Did I mention it's a great place for a space build?

Most players will float on past, heading for one of the larger End islands instead – where there’s a chance of locating an End city or even an End ship. But for those who like the quiet life, setting up home in the small End islands will be just the ticket. You’ll never be bothered by anyone other than a few Endermen ever again.