Following its beta release earlier this month, Minecraft's "Combat" update launched in full today, February 29. The update introduces a number of new features, perhaps the most notable of which are a series of combat-themed mechanics, including shields, dual-wielding, and more.
In addition to the combat mechanics, Minecraft's 1.9 update adds a new mob (Shulker), as well new Purpor and End Rod blocks. Also, the update adds new sound effects and igloos.
Below is a list of new and changed features for Minecraft 1.9, but note that Mojang explains in a blog post that it's an "almost complete" rundown of items.
This update is out now on PC and will presumably roll out for the console editions of Minecraft in the time ahead.
Minecraft 1.9 New and Changed Features Include:
Added shieldsAttacking now has a "cool-down" delay, making it more important to time your attacksYou can now hold items in both hands (default quick key to swap items is 'F')Swords have a special sweep attackAxes have a special crushing blow attackAdded the elytraNew mob: ShulkerExpanded The EndAdded Chorus plantsNew Purpur blocksNew End Rod blockAdded dragon head blockEnder Dragon can be resummonedAdded beetroot and beetroot soup (from MC:PE)Added grass path blockAdded igloosArmor protection values have been loweredAdded tipped arrowsAdded spectral arrowsAdded Frost Walker enchantment and frosted ice blockAdded a whole bunch of new sound effectsAdded sound effect subtitlesBrewing Stand now requires Blaze Powder to activateAdded skeleton ridersWe believe we've fixed MC-10 and a whole bunch of other issuesRemoved Herobrine