The Copper Golem was a mob proposed during Minecraft Live 2021 as a potential addition to the game. While it ultimately lost the mob vote to the Allay, its unique characteristics and potential functionality left a lasting impression on the Minecraft community.
The Copper Golem was designed to be a small, player-built golem crafted from copper blocks. Its primary function was to randomly press copper buttons, providing an element of automation and a touch of chaotic energy to redstone builds. Imagine a contraption where the Copper Golem would scurry about, haphazardly activating different mechanisms, leading to unpredictable and potentially humorous results.
Beyond its playful nature, the Copper Golem introduced a dynamic element: oxidation. As time passed, the Copper Golem would oxidize, turning from a vibrant orange to a greenish hue. This oxidation process could potentially affect its behavior, perhaps slowing it down or changing the order in which it pressed buttons. Players could then use wax to prevent further oxidation and preserve its appearance, or lightning to reset the oxidation and bring it back to its original state.
The allure of the Copper Golem lay in several factors. First, it added a unique redstone component that wasn’t solely about precision and efficiency. It embraced randomness and offered the possibility of creating unpredictable, whimsical machines. This contrasted with the often meticulously planned and calculated nature of redstone engineering, offering a breath of fresh air to seasoned builders.
Second, the oxidation mechanic provided a visually engaging element. The gradual transformation of the Copper Golem from a bright, newly built creation to a weathered, mossy statue told a story of time and the elements. This visual representation of decay and change resonated with players who enjoy the aesthetic aspects of Minecraft building.
Third, the Copper Golem presented a novel use for copper, a resource introduced in the Caves & Cliffs update. While copper had some decorative uses, it lacked a compelling, core functionality. The Copper Golem would have given players a reason to actively seek out and utilize copper beyond just building roofs and lightning rods.
While the Copper Golem didn’t win the vote, its influence can still be seen in the community. Players continue to explore the possibilities of random redstone contraptions, and the concept of using oxidation as a gameplay mechanic remains an intriguing idea. Though it might not officially exist in the game, the spirit of the Copper Golem – its playful unpredictability, its visual transformation, and its innovative use of resources – lives on in the minds of many Minecraft players, inspiring creative builds and pushing the boundaries of redstone engineering.