What Better Archeology works with.
| Platform | Java Edition |
|---|---|
| Loaders | Fabric, NeoForge |
| Minecraft versions | 1.20, 1.20.4, 1.21.11, 26.1.2, 26.2 |
| Environment | Client, Server |
The better archeology mod by Pandarix takes the small archeology system added in the 1.20 Trails & Tales update and gives it real content. It runs on Fabric and NeoForge, and it must be installed on both sides, so singleplayer worlds and multiplayer hosts both need it. Forge releases exist but stopped in September 2024.
Loaders and versions
- Fabric: Minecraft 1.20 to 26.2. The newest build requires Resourceful Config, Fabric API and Architectury API; some builds for 1.21 to 26.1.2 require Resourceful Config and Architectury API; some builds for 1.20 to 1.21.11 need no dependencies; some builds for 1.21 to 1.21.1 require SuperMartijn642's Config Lib; some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.4 require SuperMartijn642's Config Lib and YUNG's API; some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.4 require YUNG's API.
- NeoForge: Minecraft 1.20 to 26.2. The newest build requires Resourceful Config and Architectury API; some builds for 1.20.1 to 1.21.11 need no dependencies; some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.4 require YUNG's API; some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.1 require SuperMartijn642's Config Lib and YUNG's API.
- Forge: Minecraft 1.20 to 1.21.1, builds stopped after September 2024. The newest build requires SuperMartijn642's Config Lib, optionally Cristel Lib and Just Enough Items (JEI); some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.4 require SuperMartijn642's Config Lib and YUNG's API; some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.4 require YUNG's API; some builds for 1.20 to 1.20.1 need no dependencies.
What it changes
Mojang's update introduced archeology as a thin mechanic. This mod expands it with new structures to find while exploring, and with artifacts and fossils to uncover inside them. The aim is to stay true to the feel of vanilla rather than bolt on a separate system.
The mod files itself under adventure, decoration, worldgen, equipment and game mechanics on Modrinth.
Installation
- 1.Install Fabric or NeoForge for the same release as your world. The guides for Fabric and Forge and NeoForge cover the loader step.
- 2.Pick the Better Archeology file made for that loader and release on Modrinth.
- 3.Add every required library listed for that file to the mods folder next to it, such as Architectury API for the newest files.
- 4.Install the same files on the host if you play multiplayer, then launch with the loader's profile.
Trade-offs
The newest files also lean on Resourceful Config as an extra library to install.
Better Archeology mod showcase
Questions about Better Archeology.
4 questions
What does Better Archeology add?
It builds on the archeology system introduced in 1.20 with new structures to discover and artifacts and fossils to find in them. Pandarix describes the goal as improving the vanilla mechanics and adding new things to discover while staying true to the nature of the game.
Does Better Archeology work on multiplayer?
Yes, but it is required on both sides. Install it the same way in singleplayer and on a multiplayer host, add the libraries listed for the exact file you pick, and share those same files with everyone joining.
Is Better Archeology available for Forge?
Forge files exist, but releases stopped after September 2024 while Fabric and NeoForge kept getting updates. For a current release you need Fabric or NeoForge. Forge players are limited to the older files listed on Modrinth.
Can I modify or redistribute Better Archeology?
The source repository includes an MIT license from 2024 in Pandarix's name. It allows use, modification and distribution.
