Java features that behave differently for Bedrock players
What works differently for Bedrock players on a Geyser server: combat, inventories, books, custom items, commands, and Java-only plugin features.
Updated · 2 min read
On a Geyser server the game rules are Java's, but Bedrock players see them through a Bedrock client. Most gameplay is identical, yet a handful of features look or feel different, and a few Java-only things are not available to Bedrock players at all.
Gameplay and mechanics
| Feature | What Bedrock players experience |
|---|---|
| Combat | Java's attack cooldown applies, but the Bedrock client has no native cooldown indicator. Geyser can show it as a title or action bar indicator (the show-cooldown option in its config). |
| Redstone | Behaves like Java redstone, because it runs on the Java server |
| Mob farms and game mechanics | Java behavior, since the server simulates everything |
| Movement and hitboxes | Small differences can trip anti-cheat plugins |
Because the server is Java, Bedrock-specific tricks (such as Bedrock-only redstone behavior) do not apply.
Interface and inventories
- Inventories and chests are translated to Bedrock menus. Standard containers work well.
- Custom plugin GUIs built from chest inventories usually work, though very large or unusual layouts can look odd.
- Books can be read and written; complex formatting may render differently.
- Scoreboards, boss bars and titles are translated and generally display fine.
- Tab list looks different on Bedrock, which shows a simpler player list.
Commands and chat
- Bedrock players can run commands from chat. Geyser sends command suggestions, so autocomplete mostly works.
- Clickable chat (click to run a command or open a link) is not supported the same way on Bedrock, so plugins that rely on clicking chat messages may need another method.
- Floodgate's forms API lets plugins show native Bedrock menus instead. Some plugins offer Bedrock-friendly forms for this reason.
Custom items, blocks and resource packs
- Java resource packs are not sent to Bedrock. Supply a Bedrock pack through Geyser. See resource packs for Bedrock players.
- Items using custom model data show their base item unless you add Geyser custom item mappings.
- Map art and banners work, though rendering can vary slightly.
Things Bedrock players cannot use
- Client-side Java mods (minimaps, shaders, Fabric or Forge mods).
- Features that need a Java client mod to see, such as some voice chat plugins that require a client mod. Check whether your voice chat plugin offers Bedrock support.
- Java debug screen (F3) features. Geyser can show Bedrock's own coordinate display instead (see below).
Making the server friendlier for Bedrock
- Show coordinates on Bedrock clients with this option in
plugins/Geyser-Spigot/config.yml(it respects the JavareducedDebugInfogamerule):
show-coordinates: true
- Prefer plugins that mention Geyser or Floodgate support.
- Test new plugins with a Bedrock client before launching them.
Need a full list?
The GeyserMC wiki keeps an up-to-date list of current limitations: see the GeyserMC wiki.