Mods
While this is not a modded server, there are several mods that can improve your experience in Minecraft on even Vanilla servers. All mods I mention here will run on Fabric (My recommended mod loader), however many have alternate builds available for NeoForge if you prefer.
Recommended Mod Loaders
If you're new to modding or just want to get started quickly, see the tutorial below on installing mods using the Modrinth App
How to Install Minecraft Mods with the Modrinth App
Modrinth is a user-friendly platform for finding and installing Minecraft mods. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up Modrinth and installing mods for the first time.
- Step 1: Install the Modrinth App
- Download the App: Visit the official Modrinth website and download the Modrinth app (modrinth.com/app) for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Run the Installer: Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to set up the app on your computer.
- Launch the App: Open the Modrinth app after installation is complete.
- Step 2: Set Up a Modded Minecraft Profile
- Log In: Log into your Minecraft account through the Modrinth app to link your account.
- Choose a Mod Loader: Mods require a mod loader to work. You can choose between:
- Fabric (Recommended): Lightweight and widely used for performance and quality-of-life mods.
- NeoForge: A community-driven fork of Forge with similar functionality.
- Select your preferred loader and version of Minecraft through the app.
- Create a Profile: Name and save your modded Minecraft profile. This profile will have the loader and Minecraft version pre-installed.
- Step 3: Browse and Install Mods
- Find Mods: Use the app’s search bar to explore the vast library of mods. You can search for specific mods (e.g., "Sodium") or browse categories like "Performance" or "Visual Enhancements." See below for a list of recommended mods for playing on Stonehaven.
- Download Mods: Click on a mod you want to install, review its description, and check compatibility with your Minecraft version and mod loader. Then, hit the "Install" button, and the Modrinth app will automatically add it to your modded profile.
- Check Dependencies: Some mods require additional mods to function (called "dependencies"). The Modrinth app will notify you of these and install them for you.
- Step 4: Launch Modded Minecraft
- Select Your Profile: In the Modrinth app, choose the profile containing your mods.
- Launch the Game: Hit "Play" to launch Minecraft with your installed mods.
- Tips for New Modders
- Back Up Your Worlds: Modded Minecraft can sometimes be unstable. Always back up your worlds to avoid losing progress.
- Stick to Compatible Mods: Check each mod’s compatibility with your Minecraft version and mod loader to avoid errors.
- Join the Community: If you encounter issues, visit the Modrinth community forums or Discord for help.
Fabric
Fabric is a modern mod loader widely used for its simplicity and efficiency.
For an easy and streamlined modding experience, Fabric is an excellent choice. However, you'll need to install the Fabric API for it to work.
Additionally, consider installing Cloth Config and Mod Menu to make managing and configuring your mods easier.
NeoForge
NeoForge is a fork of Forge, created to resolve some management challenges with the original Forge loader.
You can learn more about the reasons behind this fork here.
Recommended Mods for playing on Stonehaven
Performance and Optimization
Sodium Replaces Minecraft's rendering engine to improve FPS, reduce micro-stuttering, and optimize rendering efficiency. Ideal for low-end or mid-range PCs. Best paired with Reece's Sodium Options.
- ✅ Fabric (Recommended)
- ✅ NeoForge
Reece's Sodium Options
Enhances Sodium’s options screen for better usability.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge
FerriteCore
Reduces memory usage in various ways, making Minecraft run smoother.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge
ImmediatelyFast
Optimizes how Minecraft sends data to the GPU, improving frame times.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge
Entity Culling
Skips rendering of unseen entities to improve FPS, utilizing CPU cores for path-tracing.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge
Visual Enhancements
Iris
Provides compatibility for OptiFine shaders with performance optimizations. Perfect for stunning landscapes and lighting effects.- ✅ Fabric (Recommended)
- ✅ NeoForge
A handful of recommended Shaders:
- Complementary Unbound: Well-rounded high-quality visuals, highly customizable.
- Rethinking Voxels: Based on Complementary with a focus on realistic shadows and lighting. Uses Path Tracing so an extra beefy computer is necessary.
- BSL Shaders: Subtle vanilla-style enhancements.
- BSL Shaders Classic: Extremely subtle for a near-vanilla feel.
3D Skin Layers
Adds 3D modeling to the second layer of player skins, maintaining performance at distances over 12 blocks. Supports transparency.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge
Continuity
Enables OptiFine-like connected and emissive textures. Requires enabling default texture packs.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge
Sound Enhancements
- Sound Physics Remastered
Adds realistic sound attenuation, reverberation, and absorption.- ✅ Fabric
- ✅ NeoForge