Minecraft is getting a major graphical update, titled “Vibrant Visuals,” which will be released for compatible devices first. The upgrade includes improved visuals such as directional lighting, volumetric fog, and pixelated shadows. This update makes no changes to gameplay.
Players can toggle between the new visuals and classic Minecraft look with a button press. The first release of Vibrant Visuals is expected in a few months for beta platforms, with plans to expand it to Java Edition in the future. Game director Agnes Larsson stated that the team wants to ensure high quality and performance across all platforms.
Senior product manager Maddie Psenka explained that the update has been in development for some time, with a focus on building foundations for a new visual mode. The team took their time to test and refine the update for various platforms, including mobile and console.
The update is a free addition to Minecraft, reflecting Mojang’s commitment to not heavily monetizing the game. This philosophy also extends to exploring generative AI technology instead of creating a “Minecraft 2.” With no signs of slowing down, Minecraft continues to evolve with new features and updates.
As Minecraft art director Jasper Boerstra noted, future graphics updates will build upon existing elements and incorporate player feedback. The update is part of the ongoing efforts to balance classic gameplay with modern visual improvements.
Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/minecrafts-vibrant-visuals-upgrade-the-start-of-a-new-graphical-journey