Minecraft Redstone For Dummies, Portable Edition

Chapter 8

Using Data Tags to Customize Objects

In This Chapter

Understanding the structure of a data tag

Implementing data tags in entities, items, and blocks

Debugging broken data tags

Using attributes, displays, and more to customize your game

A data tag is a variable stored in an object — that is, a block or an entity — taking various values that can affect how that object performs. When executing commands that summon, adjust, or detect these objects, you can include values of certain data tags to implement into the process. If you want to create chests with preset contents, zombies wielding powerful weapons, or giant stacks of chickens, you can do this and more with the right data tags. This chapter shows you how to use all sorts of data tags, and how to apply them to enhance your Minecraft experience in creative new ways.

Understanding the Syntax of Data Tags

Data tags are described in a special language that is added to normal commands. For example, take a look at this command:

  summon Creeper ~ ~ ~ {powered:1b,  ExplosionRadius:9}

This command works as written — the curly ...