How to Get the Subspace Bubble Advancement — cover image

How to Get the Subspace Bubble Advancement


Want to unlock a truly unique way to travel across Minecraft? The Subspace Bubble Advancement offers a fascinating, albeit challenging, method of traversing vast distances, primarily within the Nether. It’s a rewarding achievement that requires careful planning and a bit of exploration. This guide will walk you through every step, from crafting the frame to finally claiming the advancement.

Crafting the Obsidian Frame

The first step to unlocking the Subspace Bubble is constructing the frame itself. This isn’t a simple, quick build; precision is key. You’ll need 20 Obsidian blocks – a decent amount, so gather those before you begin. The frame should be 4 blocks wide and 5 blocks tall, ensuring that the corners aren’t included in the internal space. This creates a rectangular area within the frame that will be illuminated. Don’t worry about perfectly smooth edges; a slightly uneven frame is perfectly acceptable. Obsidian is notoriously difficult to mine, so consider using a Diamond Pickaxe to speed up the process. Remember, the frame itself doesn’t have any special function beyond being the trigger for the advancement – it’s purely a visual marker.

Lighting the Inner Chamber

Once the frame is complete, it’s time to light the interior. This is achieved using Flint and Steel. Simply right-click on each block within the 4x5 frame to ignite them. Ensure every block is lit – a single unlit block will prevent you from entering the portal and completing the advancement. The lighting doesn’t need to be bright; a regular flame is sufficient. It’s also a good idea to place a few torches around the outside of the frame to help you see it clearly, especially in the often-dim Nether.

Entering the Purple Haze

With the frame lit, you’re ready to activate the portal. Locate the center of the illuminated area – it’s the space enclosed by the obsidian frame. Carefully walk into the purple haze that appears. This is the Subspace Bubble portal, and stepping through it is the key to progressing. Be prepared for a brief disorientation as you’re transported to the Nether. It’s a small, contained space, so don’t worry about falling off the edge!

The real challenge begins once you’re in the Nether. Because one block in the Nether equates to eight blocks in the Overworld, you need to travel a significant distance – at least 875 blocks – to unlock the advancement. This is where careful tracking becomes essential. Press F3 on your keyboard to display your coordinates. Note your starting Nether portal’s coordinates (X, Y, Z). Then, begin walking away from that portal in a straight line. Constantly monitor your X coordinate. You’ll see the number increase by 875 blocks as you progress. It’s incredibly easy to lose your way in the Nether, so marking your path with torches or other landmarks is highly recommended.

Creating and Activating Nether Portals

As you travel, you’ll need to create new Nether portals to maintain your progress and return to the Overworld. Each new portal you create increases your distance traveled. When your X coordinate has increased by at least 875 blocks, it’s time to build a new Nether portal. This requires 10 Obsidian blocks and 4 Blaze Rods – Blaze Rods are obtained by killing Blazes in Nether Fortresses. Once the portal is constructed, activate it with Flint and Steel. Immediately return to the original portal and step back through the purple haze to return to the Overworld. Repeat this process – travel, create a new portal, return to the original, and step through – until you’ve successfully completed the required distance.

Tips for a Smoother Journey

  • Bring Supplies: The Nether is a dangerous place. Pack plenty of food, armor (preferably Netherite), and weapons. Healing Potions are invaluable.
  • Torches are Your Friend: As mentioned before, marking your path with torches will prevent you from getting hopelessly lost.
  • Watch Your Surroundings: The Nether is filled with hostile mobs, including Ghasts and Piglins. Be vigilant and prepared for combat.
  • Coordinate with Others (Optional): If you’re playing with friends, coordinating your portal placements can make the journey much easier and more efficient.

Do you find the vast distances of the Nether a daunting prospect, or are you eager to start planning your Subspace Bubble expedition?