datapack

A datapack is a collection of data-driven resources that modify or extend Minecraft gameplay without requiring server mods. It uses Minecraft’s built-in datapack system to change game behavior by supplying data files rather than code, enabling players to customize rules, recipes, loot, advancements, and more.

A datapack is distributed as a folder or zip containing a pack.mcmeta file and a data/ directory. The data folder holds content organized by namespace, typically data/<namespace>/functions, data/<namespace>/recipes, data/<namespace>/loot_tables, data/<namespace>/advancements, and related subfolders. The pack declares its format in pack.mcmeta (pack_format indicates compatibility with specific Minecraft versions). To enable a datapack, it must be placed in a world’s datapacks directory (world/datapacks).

Datapacks are loaded when a world is loaded or via the /reload command. Their data is merged with the game’s existing data, and namespaces help prevent conflicts. Datapacks can override existing built-in data if they use the appropriate namespace and structure, though such overrides should be used cautiously.

Key components include:

- Functions: files with .mcfunction that execute commands, often triggered by tags or events.

- Recipes and loot tables: define crafting recipes and item drops.

- Advancements and tags: add new achievements and categorize blocks or items.

- World generation data: structures and features defined under worldgen for custom generation behavior.

Datapacks provide a way to customize Minecraft through data files, are version-dependent, and can be shared and activated without modifying the game’s code. They are commonly used on single-player worlds and multiplayer servers to tailor gameplay experiences.