Updated 23 October 2026. Facts on this page come from minecraft.wiki, minecraft.net and the live Artemis PvP server; sources are listed at the bottom.
Ghasts: Fireballs, Ghast Tears and How to Kill Them
Ghasts are big floating Nether mobs with 10 HP that shoot an exploding fireball every 3 seconds. Hit the fireball back with a sword, a bow or any projectile to send it at the ghast, which kills it in one hit. They drop ghast tears, used for Regeneration potions, end crystals and dried ghasts, and gunpowder.
Where do ghasts spawn?
In the Nether: Nether wastes, soul sand valleys and basalt deltas, at any light level. Each needs a solid block below and an open space 5 blocks wide and 4 blocks high, and they always spawn alone. Their cries can be heard from up to 80 blocks away.
How do ghast fireballs work?
Within range and with a clear line of sight, a ghast faces you and fires every 3 seconds. The fireball explodes on impact and sets fire to blocks nearby; blocks with blast resistance of 3.5 or more survive it. On Java they target players within 64 blocks horizontally. Ghasts do not chase you; they strafe and shoot from where they are.
How do you kill a ghast?
Deflect the fireball: hit it with a melee attack or another projectile and it flies back. A deflected fireball that hits the ghast directly deals huge damage and kills it. Otherwise use a bow, since ghasts have only 10 HP but float out of reach. They are immune to fire and lava, but are not undead, so Smite does nothing and Instant Damage hurts them.
What do ghasts drop?
| Drop (Java) | Normal | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Ghast tear | 0-1 (50%) | Regeneration potions; end crystals with glass and an eye of ender |
| Gunpowder | 0-2 | TNT, fireworks, splash potions |
| Music disc (Tears) | 1, only if killed by its own deflected fireball | Jukeboxes |
Plus 5 experience. See brewing.
Does ArtemisPvP have a custom ghast?
Frequently asked questions
How do you kill a ghast easily?
Hit its fireball back at it; a deflected fireball kills it.
What are ghast tears used for?
Regeneration potions, end crystals and dried ghasts.
Sources
Every fact on this page was checked against these pages; the wording is ours.