Mojang is finally revealing all of Minecraft: Java Edition's code after 16 years to "make it quicker and easier for modders to create and improve mods"

News
By published

"Modding is at the heart of Java Edition"

Minecraft characters and monsters stand in a group on a green background
(Image credit: Mojang)

Well over a decade has passed since the release of Mojang's monumental sandbox game Minecraft, with countless mods dropping in that time – but a new change to the Java Edition could mean more Minecraft mods than ever before.

That change is the removal of obfuscation – a process that sees bits and bobs of Java Edition's code obscured and inaccessible. Mojang details its plans to axe obfuscation in an exciting new announcement, one that comes mere days after its post unveiling more of the Mounts of Mayhem update. The developer opens by asking readers, "Do you like to mod Java, tinker with builds, or take deep dives into Minecraft's code?"

It continues with an explanation on obfuscation within the Java Edition: "For a long time, Java Edition has used obfuscation (hiding parts of the code) – a common practice in the gaming industry. Now we're changing how we ship Minecraft: Java Edition to remove obfuscation completely. We hope that, with this change, we can pave a future for Minecraft: Java Edition where it's easier to create, update, and debug mods."

As for why Mojang is choosing to do this, it's simple. "Modding is at the heart of Java Edition – and obfuscation makes modding harder," the company says. "We're excited about this change to remove obfuscation, as it should make it quicker and easier for modders to create and improve mods. Now you won't have to untangle tricky code or deal with unclear names."

The dev adds that this change doesn't affect its current EULA at all – so, creative masterminds, get ready to mod.

TOPICS
Anna Koselke
Anna Koselke
Staff Writer

After spending years with her head in various fantastical realms' clouds, Anna studied English Literature and then Medieval History at the University of Edinburgh, going on to specialize in narrative design and video game journalism as a writer. She has written for various publications since her postgraduate studies, including Dexerto, Fanbyte, GameSpot, IGN, PCGamesN, and more. When she's not frantically trying to form words into coherent sentences, she's probably daydreaming about becoming a fairy druid and befriending every animal or she's spending a thousand (more) hours traversing the Underdark in Baldur's Gate 3. If you spot her away from her PC, you'll always find Anna with a fantasy book, a handheld video game console of some sort, and a Tamagotchi or two on hand.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.