Modpacks explained: loaders, versions, and how servers fit in

Modpacks explained: loaders, versions, and how servers fit in

Modpacks turn Minecraft into a playground of new blocks, machines, magic, and adventures. If you’re new to modpacks—or returning after a few years—this guide covers the essentials in clear language so you can pick the right pack and run it smoothly on HostChicken.

What is a modpack?

A modpack is a curated set of mods (plus configs and sometimes resource packs) designed to work together. Packs can be lightweight (a few quality‑of‑life mods) or massive (hundreds of mods changing nearly everything). Good packs balance fun, performance, and compatibility.

Client vs server mods

• Client‑only mods: Improve visuals, UI, or performance for the player (e.g., minimaps, UI tweaks). These usually don’t need to be on the server.

• Server‑side mods: Change gameplay and world content. Players must install matching mods to join.

Always check mod pages for whether a mod is client‑only, server‑side, or both. Joining a server with missing required mods will fail with a helpful error message.

Loaders: Forge vs Fabric

• Forge: The classic mod loader with a huge library and deep gameplay mods. Many big packs are Forge.

• Fabric: Lightweight, fast updates, excellent performance mods. Many modern packs prefer Fabric.

You must match the loader on both client and server for the same Minecraft version (e.g., Fabric 1.20.1 on both). Forge and Fabric are not cross‑compatible.

Versions that must match

• Minecraft version: e.g., 1.20.1

• Loader version: Forge build or Fabric loader version

• Mod versions: The pack’s exact list

Small mismatches cause crashes or “missing mod” errors. Use the pack’s provided versions exactly.

Pack formats and tools

• CurseForge: Popular platform. Many packs export `.zip` files for clients and sometimes provide server packs.

• Modrinth: Modern platform. Many packs use `.mrpack` with fast dependency resolution.

• Packwiz: Tooling for building and maintaining packs reproducibly; great for power users and teams.

On HostChicken, you’ll either upload the provided server pack or convert the client pack into a server install (removing client‑only mods). Some hosts provide one‑click installs for well‑known packs; if not, the manual method still works fine.

What’s inside a server pack?

• Mods folder: `.jar` files for server

• Configs: Tweaks to keep gameplay balanced and stable

• Scripts/datapacks: Optional additional logic

• Start scripts: Launch commands with memory flags

Client packs add shaders, texture packs, and client‑only mods that should not be uploaded to the server.

Performance expectations

Modpacks need more RAM and CPU than vanilla. Lightweight Fabric packs can run nicely on modest resources, while big Forge packs may require significantly more. Start with the pack’s recommended spec, then fine‑tune view and simulation distances.

Choosing a pack that fits your group

Ask:

• What do we want to do? Tech? Magic? Exploration? Quests?

• How strong are our PCs? Heavier packs need better client hardware.

• How patient are we with setup? Fabric packs tend to update faster with fewer surprises.

Great beginner choices often include small to medium Fabric packs with performance mods (Lithium, Sodium, Starlight) and a few content mods.

Multiplayer realities

• Everyone must install the same pack (unless it’s a plugin server).

• Updates must be coordinated: server first on a clone, then clients.

• Back up before changes; lock versions when stable.

Troubleshooting common errors

• Missing mod: Install the exact version the server requires.

• Wrong loader: Switching Forge/Fabric requires a different install, not just a jar swap.

• Out of memory: Increase server RAM within safe limits; also remove heavy mods you don’t use.

• Crashes on startup: Remove the last mod you added; check logs for the earliest “Caused by” line.

Quality‑of‑life for modpack players

• Use a good launcher: Prism Launcher and the CurseForge app make managing packs easy.

• Keep a profile per pack: Separate folders avoid file conflicts.

• Map and recipe help: JourneyMap/FTB Chunks and JEI/REI are lifesavers.

Server management tips

• Enable automatic backups in HostChicken.

• Lower simulation distance for large automation builds.

• Schedule nightly restarts if memory usage climbs over long sessions.

• Monitor TPS and entity counts; be willing to prune heavy farms.

When to build your own pack

If your group wants a very specific vibe, building a custom pack is rewarding. Start with a lightweight base (Fabric with performance mods), add a few content mods, test for a night, then iterate. Packwiz helps you pin versions so everyone stays in sync.

Quick glossary

• Loader: The framework that runs mods (Forge or Fabric)

• Pack: A curated set of mods with configs

• Server pack: The server‑ready version without client‑only mods

• Client‑only mod: Runs on players’ PCs only (e.g., shaders)

• TPS: Ticks per second—the server’s heartbeat (aim for 20)

Modpacks can be cozy and simple or wildly complex. Start small, keep it friendly, and focus on building something together. With the right expectations and a bit of practice, running modpacks on HostChicken feels natural and fun.