How this calculator works
Each tier is a square of blocks, and the next tier is one block smaller on every side, so its side length is two blocks shorter. A base of seven has tiers of 7, 5, 3 and 1 blocks per side. The block count for a tier is the side length squared, and the total is the sum of those squares. The shape runs out when the side length reaches one block, which is why a base of seven can hold at most four tiers.
Formula
Side length of tier n = base - 2 x (n - 1). Blocks in tier n = (base - 2 x (n - 1))^2. Total blocks for h tiers = the sum of (base - 2 x (i - 1))^2 for i from 1 to h. For a full pyramid whose top tier is a single block, this is a square pyramidal number in steps of two.
Worked example
A base of 7 blocks and a height of 3 tiers gives 7^2 + 5^2 + 3^2 = 49 + 25 + 9 = 83 blocks. Tier 2 has 5 blocks per side and 25 blocks, and the first two tiers use 74 blocks. With 100 blocks in the inventory and the same base, you can finish 4 tiers, using 49 + 25 + 9 + 1 = 84 blocks, and 16 blocks are left over.
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Frequently asked questions
Why does each tier lose two blocks per side?
A stepped pyramid sits one block in from the tier below on all four sides. Moving in by one block on each opposite side removes two blocks from the side length. That keeps the corners supported and gives the familiar stepped look.
What happens with an even base?
The side lengths run 8, 6, 4, 2, then zero, so the top is a 2 by 2 platform rather than a single block. The same formula applies. The calculator reports the maximum number of tiers as the base divided by two, rounded up.
Does this count a hollow pyramid?
No. Every tier is counted as a solid square of blocks. A hollow temple, an internal staircase or a room inside changes the count completely; subtract the missing blocks or plan those features separately.
Does the game version change the result?
No. The geometry is block arithmetic and does not depend on Minecraft or any other game version. Only the material cost and the block type change, not the number of positions in the shape.
Can I build the pyramid with fewer blocks by leaving gaps?
A visually complete pyramid needs every counted position filled, because a gap shows from outside. You can leave out hidden interior blocks if you do not need to walk inside, but the shape will not be solid and the result here is the solid count.