Java Edition Alpha v1.2.0

Alpha v1.2.0, the first release of the Halloween Update, was released with server 0.2.2 on October 30, 2010, adding the Nether along with new Nether-exclusive mobs and blocks. It also added fishing, a new terrain generator, and other changes and fixes. This version is listed in the launcher, but attempting to play it downloads Alpha v1.2.0_02 instead.

Additions

 * New terrain generator, featuring biomes

Blocks

 * Netherrack Revision 1.png Netherrack
 * Soul Sand Revision 1.png Soul Sand
 * Glowstone Revision 1.png Glowstone
 * Carved Pumpkin Revision 1.png Carved Pumpkin
 * Jack o'Lantern Revision 1.png Jack o'Lantern
 * Portal.png Nether Portal

Items

 * Clock.png Clock
 * Craftable item that tells the time


 * Glowstone Dust Revision 1.png Glowstone Dust
 * Raw Fish.png Cooked Fish.png Raw Fish and Cooked Fish

Mobs

 * Ghast.png Ghast
 * Large white mobs that float around the Nether.
 * Shoot fireballs at the player


 * Zombie Pigman Revision 2.png Zombie Pigman
 * When one pigman is attacked all nearby pigmen will retaliate and attack the player.
 * Hold gold swords.

World generation

 * The Nether
 * A hell-like dimension that can be used for quick travel.

Gameplay

 * Fishing

General

 * New music tracks and sound effects.
 * Splashes
 * Added "Slow acting portals!".
 * Added "Try the Nether!".
 * Added "Don't look directly at the bugs!".
 * Added "Oh, ok, Pigmen!".
 * Added "Finally with ladders!".
 * Added "Scary!".

Changes

 * Higher lighting values are required the deeper they are to keep mobs from spawning.
 * Stairs, crafting tables, chests, and furnaces now face the same direction as the player when placed.
 * Creepers have new sounds.
 * Grass and leaves are now darker in shade.
 * Sunrise now creates a red glow at the horizon.
 * Pressing hides the HUD and the view-model from the person's view. In third person mode, pressing  will create a view looking back at the player's own face.
 * Fake chunks generate in the Far Lands.
 * Removed Winter Mode.