There are many reasons why you might want to eliminate mobs in Minecraft. The easiest method is using commands, specifically the /kill command. However, even this simple command has some nuances. This guide explains how to use it effectively.

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Before using the /kill command, ensure your world has cheats enabled. Skip to the next section if you already know how to do this.

The basic /kill command is simple: type /kill into the chat box. However, this will kill *you*. To target mobs, add some syntax.

To kill all mobs, use this command:

/kill @e[type=!minecraft:player] – This targets all entities (@e) except players (type=!minecraft:player).

To kill specific mob types, for example, chickens:

/kill @e[type=minecraft:chicken]

You can also specify a distance. To kill all mobs within 15 blocks:

/kill @e[distance=..15] – Java Edition

/kill @e[r=10] – Bedrock Edition

To kill a specific mob type within a certain distance (e.g., sheep within 15 blocks):

/kill @e[distance=..15,type=minecraft:sheep] – Java Edition

/kill @e[r=10,type=minecraft:sheep] – Bedrock Edition

Both editions offer command autocompletion, so you don't need to memorize these exactly. The /kill command is relatively straightforward; you'll quickly grasp it after a couple of tries.

Beyond @e, other selectors target different entities:

@p – nearest player
@r – random player
@a – all players
@e – all entities
@s – yourself

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How to Turn On Cheats/Commands in Minecraft

The mob-killing commands won't work without cheats enabled. Here's how to enable them:

Java Edition

In your world, press Esc, select "Open to LAN," and toggle "Allow Commands" to "On." Commands will work, but you must repeat this each time you open the world. To permanently enable cheats, create a copy of the world with cheats enabled. In the main menu, go to Singleplayer, select your world, click "Re-create" at the bottom, and enable "Allow Commands" before creating the copy.

Bedrock Edition

In the world selection menu, click the pencil icon next to your world. In the settings menu, toggle "Cheats" to "On."

That's all you need to know about killing mobs in Minecraft.

Minecraft is available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile.