Learn about the difficulty of writing Minecraft datapacks nowadays, and how datapack libraries like Bookshelf can help developers
Many of you are diving into the world of datapacks to expand the possibilities of Minecraft.
However, let’s face it — the increasing complexity of the game and datapacks with each new version can be discouraging.
It used to be simpler…
At first, datapacks were used for basic game modifications or for creating maps that heavily relied on the core mechanics of the base game. But over time, the technical capabilities evolved, raising both the ambitions of creators and the expectations of players. Projects have become more and more sophisticated, requiring advanced management, refined skills, and longer development time.
Libraries: a solution to growing complexity
Imagine having to reinvent the wheel every time you build a car. Tedious, right? In traditional software development, libraries are used to avoid this problem by reusing code to streamline the process. A library is, roughly speaking, a coherent collection of code and useful elements designed to help create another program. This is where Bookshelf comes into play. This modular library, in the form of datapacks, is designed to simplify and speed up the creation process in Minecraft.
Among the 26 currently available modules, you’ll find:
- Debugging: Easily connect to your preferred editor of choice and set breakpoints, pause and resume code execution, view variables and more.
- Math: Advanced mathematical functions such as sin, cos, exp, log, sqrt, and many others.
- Movement: Allows you to manage the physics of an entity’s movement (mainly used for projectiles) as well as collisions.
- Block: Allows you to manipulate blocks while taking into account states and NBTs.
- Raycasting: Allows you to generate straight lines stopping on the surface of a block, an entity, or simply at a given distance, opening the door to a host of applications.
- Generation: Allows you to generate terrain procedurally.
- Health: Easily manage player health or entity lifespans
And that’s just a small glimpse of what’s possible!
Why use Bookshelf?
In the Minecraft community, the use of libraries is still quite rare. Bookshelf aims to change that by offering powerful, adaptable, and easy-to-use tools. This project also comes with detailed documentation for each module, suited for both beginners and experts. On top of that, an active community is available to share ideas, ask questions, and even contribute to the library’s development.
Moreover, Bookshelf isn’t just a massive project gathering a wide array of tools — it’s also a philosophy: one that encourages and promotes all existing creative tools in order to provide a true springboard for creators constantly seeking innovation.
Complexity is no longer an obstacle for your projects… so let’s get to work now by checking out https://docs.mcbookshelf.dev!
Note: This article was written by our partner at Gunivers, a French-speaking Minecraft community.