Minecraft Patches Will Be Split

Notch recently released information semi describing the details of the soon 'Adventure' patch and the implementation of Pistons into the game.
The Pistons will be available with patch 1.7, which will be released "soon".
The Adventure mode on the other hand, will be in patch 1.8, and won't be here for a few more months.

This is a Pig. He is excited.

Notch speculates the release will be sometime around 11/11/11 (specifically after that week) saying: 
"We want to make a big spectacle out of the release where we involve the fans and celebrate it properly."

Notch hasn't said too much about the Adventure mode, leaving us anxious and excited, but what he has promised is:
"New complex terrain features, at least one new mob, some interesting new combat mechanics, a new lighting engine, and some experimental new gameplay ideas.”

and
“To come is more interesting farming, bigger incentives to explore, and npc villages.”

Notch apparently wants to bring the exploration and combat aspect of the game into a more interactive light. Having the ability to customize and build nearly anything you want is really cool, but it isn't for everyone. Bringing in more "rpg" like mechanics can make the game more enjoyable for a larger crowd. Also, npc villages?? Towns of square people roaming about for us to help/talk to/quest for/laugh at/ kill ruthlessly/steal from/ignore entirely/watch get owned by creepers? Should be fun. I'll be sure to keep you posted.