Ender Pearl
A glowing orb that bends space, dropped by Endermen and traded by Piglins.
The Ender Pearl is a consumable item in Minecraft that is gathered from killing Endermen or bartering with Piglins using gold. It is essential for crafting Eyes of Ender, which lead players to the Stronghold structure containing the End Portal. The pearl also allows for faster Nether travel, using the item's ability to teleport the player when thrown. Ender Pearls are a crucial resource in speedrunning, particularly in the 1.16-1.19 RSG category, where they are needed both for teleportation and for crafting Eyes of Ender to complete the game.
Quick Facts
- Dimension link
- The End
Lore & Background
In the world of Minecraft, Ender Pearls are obtained primarily by killing Endermen, the tall, dark creatures that roam the Overworld at night. Each Enderman has a chance to drop 0 or 1 Ender Pearl upon death, with Looting increasing the maximum to 4, making each kill a gamble for this valuable resource. The pearl is also obtainable through bartering with Piglins in the Nether, using gold ingots. This method became especially important in version 1.16.1, where the Ender Pearl rate when bartering with Piglins increased from ~2.18% to ~4.73% per barter, making it a preferred strategy for speedrunners.
The pearl's connection to the End dimension is clear: it is used to craft Eyes of Ender, which are thrown to locate Strongholds and ultimately activate the End Portal. Speedrunners rely on Ender Pearls not only for crafting but also for teleportation across the Nether, where one block traveled equals eight blocks in the Overworld. This makes the pearl a key item for reducing travel time during a run. Despite its power, the pearl inflicts fall damage upon use, a cost that players must manage carefully.
In speedrunning, this risk is often mitigated by using Feather Falling enchantments or careful positioning, as Fire Resistance potions do not prevent the fall damage from Ender Pearl teleportation.
Reader's Guide
To obtain Ender Pearls, players can kill Endermen in the Overworld or barter with Piglins in the Nether using gold ingots. In speedrunning, the most efficient method is to raid a Bastion for gold blocks, then trade with Piglins for a chance at Ender Pearls, along with other valuable items like Fire Resistance potions, obsidian, and string. This strategy is common in the 1.16-1.19 RSG category, where the higher Ender Pearl rate from bartering makes it a reliable source.
Once obtained, Ender Pearls serve two primary purposes. First, they can be thrown to teleport the player to the point of impact, which is useful for crossing gaps or escaping danger. However, teleportation inflicts damage, so players should have food or potions ready to heal. Second, Ender Pearls are combined with Blaze Powder (crafted from Blaze Rods) to create Eyes of Ender, which are used to locate Strongholds and activate the End Portal.
In the Nether, Ender Pearls are especially valuable for fast travel. Since one block in the Nether equals eight blocks in the Overworld, teleporting across Nether terrain can save significant time. Players often use pearls to reach a Bastion or Fortress quickly, then use them again to return to the Overworld after obtaining necessary resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Ender Pearls in Minecraft?
You obtain these orbs by defeating hostile mobs called Endermen or by trading gold ingots with Piglins in the Nether dimension. They are rare drops that require exploration or combat to acquire consistently.
Why do I need Ender Pearls to beat the game?
These pearls are the primary ingredient required to craft Eyes of Ender, which guide players toward the Stronghold and the End Portal. Without them, accessing the final dimension becomes impossible through standard gameplay mechanics.
Do Piglins give me Ender Pearls?
Yes, Piglins in the Nether will occasionally offer an Ender Pearl in exchange for a single gold ingot during bartering sessions. This provides a safe alternative to hunting Endermen if you have enough resources.
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