Pack Essentials
by MelanX
Pack Essentials is a Forge and NeoForge mod by MelanX that adds compressed blocks, basic items and configurable features aimed at modpack builders.
What it does
The mod gathers a set of general-purpose content meant for modpacks, including different compressed blocks and some simpler basic items. Its features are adjustable through a config file, so a pack author can enable or disable parts to suit the pack. Pack Essentials is not meant as a standalone feature set: the author describes it as a base for modpacks, and some additions may change in later updates.
Required dependency: LibX must be installed on the same loader for the mod to load. Cooking for Blockheads and Jade are optional dependencies that extend the mod when present. The mod runs in the client and server environment, so both the server and every player need it. It is released under the Apache License 2.0, is open source, and has public links to its source code, issue tracker and wiki.
The only files published target Minecraft 1.20.1, on Forge and NeoForge, and the latest Forge file is 1.20.1-1.1.20 for 1.20.1, dated 2026-04-19 on the beta channel. The mod was first published on 2024-03-24 and last updated on 2026-04-19. Snapshot builds are not published.
Key features
Compressed blocks
Several compressed block variants are included, stacking base materials into denser forms for storage and building.
Basic items
Simple everyday items are added alongside the blocks, covering the easier building materials a pack often needs.
Config options
Settings in a config file let a pack author change which parts of the mod are active.
Planned additions
The author notes that further content is expected in later versions, and porting information for a later update is listed on the project.
Compatibility
Latest build for each game version and loader.
Only full game releases are shown. This mod publishes no snapshot builds.
Requirements
Dependencies declared by the latest file for each loader.
Required 1
Optional 2
Use cases
Modpack base
Pack authors add the mod as a common base of compressed blocks and basic items before building their own content on top.
Server installs
Server owners install it with LibX on both sides, so every player connects with the same blocks and items.
Who it’s for: The mod suits modpack authors who want a shared set of compressed blocks and basic items, and end users who run a finished pack with its config already set. Players on a single-player world need the same loaders and LibX installed as the server.
Questions
Does Pack Essentials need LibX?
Does the server need Pack Essentials?
Can the features be turned off?
More from MelanX
What the author says
This mod is mainly for my own modpacks. If I need something which can't be added by another mod, it'll be added here. Some easier stuff is also included, such as basic items. This mod can be configured for each modpack to only include the required items/blocks/features.
Official listing
- Modrinth page
- modrinth.com/mod/pack-essentials
- Owner
- MelanX
- Published
- 2024-03-24
- Updated on Modrinth
- 2026-04-19
- Facts verified
- 2026-10-15