block-payload-source

Payload Source is a developer-oriented block that can spawn payloads (items, units, or blocks) into the world. It is primarily present in development and preview builds and is used for testing and map/dev tools rather than regular gameplay. According to available notes from development previews, the block pairs with a complementary Payload Void to control and remove spawned payloads during tests.

Usage and behavior are highly flexible: the Payload Source supports an extensive set of configurations and can be set to spawn any block or unit available in the game, including variants and unused assets exposed in development builds. In one demonstration from the Mindustry development preview channel, the source's configuration dropdown revealed several unused or retextured entries (for example, a retextured Advanced Launch Pad pod), indicating it can expose content not normally accessible in standard play.

Practical notes and implications:

• The Payload Source is best used on custom maps, testing scenarios, or by modders and developers who need to place units, items, or structures programmatically.
• Pairing a Payload Source with a Payload Void allows controlled cleanup of spawned entities to avoid clutter or unintended interactions.
• Because it can spawn virtually any game entity, it has the most configuration options of any block; care should be taken when spawning powerful or unstable content in live games.
• Availability and exact options may vary between stable, preview, and development builds; some entries visible in preview channels may be unused or absent in release builds.