Mastering the Minecraft Mob-Killing Commands: A Comprehensive Guide
There are many reasons why you might want to eliminate mobs in Minecraft. The most efficient method is using commands, specifically the /kill command. However, even this seemingly simple command has nuances. This guide explains how to use it effectively.
Before You Begin: Enabling Cheats
The /kill command requires a world with cheats enabled. If cheats aren't already activated, follow these instructions:
Java Edition:
- Enter your world.
- Press Esc.
- Select "Open to LAN."
- Toggle "Allow Commands" to "On."
Remember, this enables cheats only for that session. To permanently enable cheats, create a copy of your world with cheats enabled during world creation.

Bedrock Edition:
- Locate your worlds.
- Select the world you want to modify.
- Click the pencil icon.
- In the settings menu, toggle "Cheats" to "On."

Using the /kill Command
The basic /kill command, entered alone, will unfortunately kill you. To target mobs, use specific selectors:
-
Kill all mobs (except the player):
/kill @e[type=!minecraft:player](@eselects all entities;type=!minecraft:playerexcludes the player.) -
Kill specific mobs:
/kill @e[type=minecraft:chicken](Replaceminecraft:chickenwith the desired mob type.) -
Kill mobs within a radius:
- Java Edition:
/kill @e[distance=..15](Kills entities within 15 blocks.) - Bedrock Edition:
/kill @e[r=10](Kills entities within 10 blocks.)
- Java Edition:
-
Kill specific mobs within a radius:
- Java Edition:
/kill @e[distance=..15,type=minecraft:sheep] - Bedrock Edition:
/kill @e[r=10,type=minecraft:sheep]
- Java Edition:
The game will auto-complete commands, simplifying the process.
Important Selectors:
Familiarize yourself with these selectors:
@p: Nearest player@r: Random player@a: All players@e: All entities@s: Yourself
Minecraft is available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile devices.