Minecraft · Wiki · Status effect
Darkness Effect in Minecraft
Darkness status effect in Minecraft: what it does, the Java and Bedrock effect commands and how to remove it.
| Type | Status effect |
|---|
Data checked Nov 6, 2026
Darkness is a harmful status effect in Minecraft. Dims your screen in pulses. You can get it from potions, food, beacons, mobs or commands. This page shows the effect, how to apply it with a command on Java Edition and Bedrock Edition and common questions.
Darkness at a glance
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Harmful |
| Effect | Dims your screen in pulses |
| ID | darkness |
Darkness command
Java Edition
/effect give @s darkness 60 1Bedrock Edition
/effect @s darkness 60 1The first number is the duration in seconds and the second is the amplifier, where 0 is level I and 1 is level II. Add true at the end to hide the particles. Build any combination with the effect command generator and clear it with /effect clear @s. The /effect wiki page has the full syntax.
How to get Darkness without commands
Look at the potions guide for brewing recipes, and remember that beacons, golden apples, suspicious stew and some mobs also apply effects.
Darkness FAQ
What does Darkness do in Minecraft?
Dims your screen in pulses.
What is the Darkness effect command?
On Java use /effect give @s darkness 60 1. On Bedrock use /effect @s darkness 60 1.
How do I remove Darkness?
Run /effect clear @s darkness on Java, or /effect @s clear on Bedrock, or drink milk.