Hytale Modding Guide
Hytale Modding Guide
Hytale is built for modding. Create blocks, items, NPCs, minigames, and entirely new experiences.
Server-First Architecture
Section titled “Server-First Architecture”Hytale modding is server-side only. There are no client mods.
- Even singleplayer runs a local server behind the scenes
- Players join modded servers without downloading anything
- Your mods work for everyone who connects automatically
This architecture keeps the client stable while giving servers full creative control.
Four Content Types
Section titled “Four Content Types”| Type | What It Is | Skills Needed | Start Here |
|---|---|---|---|
| Packs | Data assets (JSON) - blocks, items, NPCs, world generation | None | Packs Guide |
| Plugins | Server logic (Java) - commands, minigames, custom systems | Java | Plugins Guide |
| Assets | Art - models, textures, sounds, animations | 3D/Art | Assets Guide |
| Save Files | Worlds and prefabs - shareable builds | Building | Save Files Guide |
Choose Your Path
Section titled “Choose Your Path”| Your Background | Recommended Start |
|---|---|
| New to modding | Packs - Create content without coding |
| Java developer | Plugins - Build custom systems and logic |
| Artist / 3D modeler | Assets - Create models and textures |
| Builder | Save Files - Share worlds and structures |
| Want to make minigames | Packs + Plugins together |
How Packs and Plugins Work Together
Section titled “How Packs and Plugins Work Together”Packs and plugins are designed to complement each other:
- Packs define what exists (blocks, items, NPCs)
- Plugins define how things behave (game rules, commands)
For example, a minigame might use:
- A pack to define custom items, arena blocks, and NPCs
- A plugin to handle game rules, scoring, and player management
Quick Start Tutorials
Section titled “Quick Start Tutorials”| Tutorial | Time | What You’ll Build |
|---|---|---|
| Your First Pack | 5 min | A custom block with texture |
| Your First Plugin | 10 min | A /hello command |
Setup Guide
Section titled “Setup Guide”- Prerequisites - Install required tools
- Tools - Learn the official editors
- Server Setup - Required for testing (not creation)
Reference
Section titled “Reference”- Tools - Asset Editor, Blockbench, Asset Graph Editor
- FAQ - Common questions answered
- Resources - Official links and community resources
- Server Administration - Run and configure servers
Official Resources
Section titled “Official Resources”- Hytale Modding Blog Post - Official modding strategy
- Server Manual - Official server documentation
- Official Hytale Discord - Community and developer support
Future: Visual Scripting
Section titled “Future: Visual Scripting”Hytale plans to add visual scripting as an alternative to Java plugins:
- Sandboxed and safe environment for sharing logic
- Great learnability for modders of all skill levels
- Programmers can extend it with custom nodes
- Eventually integrated into the 3D world for adventure map creation
Until visual scripting is available, Java plugins are required for custom logic.