Data packs are one of Minecraft’s most powerful native tools. They allow you to adjust game mechanics like loot tables, advancements, world gen, and more, no custom code or modding frameworks needed.
Let’s break down how to get them up and running in your game. Whether you’re into automatic tools or prefer the manual route, there is a way.
The Easy Way – Use a Data Pack Loader Mod
CurseForge has teamed up with four mod developers to help make Data Packs as plug-and-play as mods. When you install a Data Pack through CurseForge, you’ll be prompted to install one of these compatible loaders:
- Open Loader by DarkhaxDev
- Global Data Packs by Declipsonator
- Global Packs by JTK222
- Paxi (supports Forge, Fabric, NeoForge) by YUNGNICKYOUNG
Once you've picked your preferred loader and installed it:
- Launch your profile from the CurseForge app
- That’s it. Seriously.
- Every world you create under that profile will automatically include the Data Packs.
The Manual Way – Installing Data Packs Yourself
Some Data Packs may not be supported by loaders yet, or maybe you just need full control. Here’s how to load them manually into a new world.
Step 1: Open your Datapacks Folder
Head to your Minecraft instance folder:
.../curseforge/minecraft/Instances/your_profile_name/datapacks/
Open that folder and leave it ready in the background.
Step 2: Launch Minecraft from CurseForge
Start the profile you’re adding the Data Pack to. This keeps everything synced with CurseForge.
Step 3: Start Creating a New World
From the main menu:
Click "Singleplayer" -> Under your new world click "More" -> Then click on "Data Packs"
Step 4: Drag & Drop
Now go back to the datapacks folder you opened earlier:
-> Drag the .zip file for the datapack directly into the Minecraft Data Pack window.
Step 5: Activate the Pack
Click the arrow icon on the Data Pack in the list to move it into the “Selected” side.
Step 6: Confirm & Create
Click Done, then Create New World.
That’s it! the Data Pack is live in your world.
Bonus Tip: Add Packs to Existing Worlds
In order to load new Data Packs into your existing world, simply drag the zip file from the profile’s datapacks folder .../your_profile_name/datapacks/ into your world’s folder .../your_profile_name/saves/your_world_name/datapacks
Need any help? Want to consult with other mod authors?
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