How to install Minecraft mods
Minecraft users don’t like being told what they can and cannot build in their blocky, virtual sandbox. Currently the bestselling game of all time, the hit title likely isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. It’s as quirky as it is addictive, and with multiplayer Minecraft gameplay and the ability to create your own Minecraft server, it’s a great game to play with friends/
Fortunately, the benevolent Minecraft community has been churning out a fair share of mods since the game’s 2009 release, albeit with levels of increasing complexity and Lego-like adoration with every passing update. And thanks to a bunch of custom build mod launchers, it’s never been easier to start using them.
Here’s our guide on how to install Minecraft mods for every single platform — whether it’s a full-blow rework on a PC or a simple add-on pack for console players, we’ll show you how to get the job done. We’ve also found the best Minecraft mods to install right now.
[Author’s note: This is a general overview of how to install Minecraft mods, not an all-encompassing guide. Installation can differ from mod to mod, so be sure to follow the download and installation instructions that can typically be found online alongside the download options.]
Installing Minecraft mods on Windows and Mac
There are a few different ways to get mods running with Minecraft, but the easiest and most popular method requires an application called Forge. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Go to the official Forge website and download the recommended version of the software. You can also install the latest version of Forge, but it could have some unresolved bugs that will impact your ability to properly run some mods.
Step 2: Download the mods you want to install from a reliable source. CurseForge is a popular location with hundreds of great mods to choose from. However, not all mods are compatible with all versions of Minecraft, or even with Forge. Make sure to research the specific mod you’re interested in to find out if it’s compatible with your software.
Step 3 (Windows): Create the “mods” folder in the .minecraft directory. Here’s the target address:
C:Users[yourname]AppDataRoaming.minecraft
If the AppData folder isn’t visible in File Explorer, click View at the app’s top and then check Hidden Items.
If this is your first mod, there is no “mods” folder within the .minecraft folder. With the .minecraft folder open, right-click within File Explorer and select New followed by Folder on the pop-up menu. Name that folder “mods.”
Step 3 (Mac): Create the “mods” folder in the minecraft directory. Here’s the target address:
~/Library/Application Support/minecraft
You can quickly access this folder using the Command + Shift + Gkeyboard shortcut. Alternatively, open Finder, click Go on the menu bar and access the Library folder by pressing the Option key. Open Application Support followed by minecraft after that.
Once there, right-click within that folder, select New Folder on the pop-up menu, and name it “mods.”
Step 4: Move the downloaded mod into the mods folder.
Step 5: Run Minecraft, but first make sure your Forge account is active. If not, your mods won’t load properly.
That’s it! As we mentioned, there are several other mod launchers on the internet besides Forge — such as LiteLoader — so you can always shop around if you don’t like everything it has to offer. That being said, it’s the most popular for a reason, and most new mods are usually compatible with the software.
Installing Minecraft mods on consoles and Windows 10 (app)
Unfortunately, mods don’t technically exist for Minecraft on Xbox One and PlayStation 4. Instead, players have access to add-ons. Unlike mods, these add-ons aren’t free and are heavily restricted compared to PC mods. However, they’re still better than nothing, and they’re incredibly easy to install.
Step 1: Launch Minecraft on your console and select Marketplace on the main menu.
Step 2: Select a Skin Pack, World, Texture Pack, or Mash-up Pack.
Step 3: Use Minecoins or a credit card to purchase the add-on.
Installing Minecraft mods on iOS and Android
True mods aren’t possible with the handheld versions of Minecraft, just like with consoles. Fortunately, there are the third-party apps Add-ons for Minecraft, BlockLauncher, and Mods for Minecraft to help you get the mods you desire. Check out how it works:
Android only
Step 1: Install BlockLauncher from the Google Play Store. This custom launcher is for loading mods.
Step 2: Follow the instructions listed by BlockLauncher to set up the software for your specific device.
Step 3: Install Mods for Minecraft PE from the Google Play Store. This tool downloads and installs mods.
Step 4: Search or browse through the hundreds of mods until you find one you like.
Step 5: Click the Install button, and it should automatically apply to your game.
iOS and Android
Step 1: Install Add-ons for Minecraft from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to select and install add-ons.
Today, it’s easier than ever to mod your Minecraft game. All the sweet new content available is worth a few minutes of your time because we’re positive there’s at least one you’ll absolutely love.
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