Want to spawn and defeat a Minecraft Wither? Sounds a bit cruel, doesn’t it? Bring something into existence just to snuff its life right back out again. Well, that’s exactly what you’ll do with the Wither – but then none of us would be here if we looked too deeply into the wrongs and rights of some video game mechanics.

One of the most powerful Minecraft mobs, the Wither is a floating, three-headed mythical monster, and defeating one is the only way of obtaining a nether star. This rare resource is vital in crafting a beacon in Minecraft, which itself provides a range of boosts, so if you’re digging a big hole, crafting something spectacular, or building your own Minecraft maps, then you’ll probably want one. Or if you’re just a completionist. So here’s how to spawn – and defeat – a Minecraft Wither.

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