Notch and company at Mojang may have just released the 1.8 beta version of "Minecraft," but that doesn't mean they're taking some time off. No, instead, they're already hard at work on version 1.9, which features further "adventure" elements, as well as the usual tweaks. Even better, the game is getting a brand new mob, but this time around, they're not an enemy. You're getting a new frosty friend!

According to Notch's Twitter account, he's just made up a brand new non-playable character for "Minecraft." Instead of creeping us out with a new enemy like the Endermen, you'll actually have a brand new pal to hang out with. The new Snowmen – or Snow Golem – are craft-able from that white stuff that's hopefully abundantly available in your current biome.

Even better, this guy will actually help you out with evil mobs. The snowman will lob snowballs at creepers and the like in an attempt to pull their attacks away from you. The snowballs deal zero damage, but at least it could buy you some time to wear the enemy out. I think I'll refer to these guys as "Snow Tanks."

The snowmen will also leave snow behind on top of blocks they travel across. Of course, if he follows you into a warm biome – a more balmy part of the map – he'll melt.

If that happens, don't cry, he's not gone for good. You see, he was made out of "Minecraft" snow, and "Minecraft" snow can never disappear completely. It sometimes goes away for almost a year at a time and takes the form of blocky spring or summer rain. But you can bet your boots that when a good, jolly December wind kisses it, it will turn into "Minecraft" snow all over again.