Forge Modding Tutorial - Minecraft 1.20: Custom Blocks | #3

Introduction

In this tutorial, we'll learn how to add a custom block to Minecraft 1.20 using Forge modding. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can create and implement your own unique blocks in the game. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this tutorial is designed to be accessible and informative.

Step 1: Set Up Your Modding Environment

Before creating a custom block, you need to set up your modding environment.

• Install Java Development Kit (JDK): Ensure you have the latest version of the JDK installed.
• Download and Install Forge: Get the MDK (Mod Development Kit) for Minecraft 1.20 from the Forge website.
• Set Up an IDE: Use an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like IntelliJ IDEA or Eclipse for coding.
• Import Forge MDK:
  • Open your IDE and create a new project using the Forge MDK.
  • Follow the setup instructions provided in the documentation.

Step 2: Create Your Custom Block Class

Now that your environment is ready, it's time to create the custom block.

• Create a New Java Class:

  • Navigate to src/main/java in your project.
  • Create a new package (e.g., com.example.customblock).
  • Inside this package, create a new Java class named CustomBlock.

• Code the Block:

  • Extend the Block class and define your custom block properties. Here’s a simple example:

    package com.example.customblock;
    
    import net.minecraft.world.level.block.Block;
    import net.minecraft.world.level.block.Blocks;
    import net.minecraft.world.level.material.Material;
    
    public class CustomBlock extends Block {
        public CustomBlock() {
            super(Properties.of(Material.STONE));
        }
    }
    

Step 3: Register Your Custom Block

You need to register your block so Minecraft recognizes it.

• Create a Registry Class:

  • Create a new class named ModBlocks in the same package.

• Register the Block:

  • Use the following code to register your block:

    import net.minecraft.world.item.BlockItem;
    import net.minecraft.world.item.Item;
    import net.minecraftforge.event.CreativeModeTabEvent;
    import net.minecraftforge.event.RegistryEvent;
    import net.minecraftforge.eventbus.api.SubscribeEvent;
    import net.minecraftforge.registries.DeferredRegister;
    import net.minecraftforge.registries.ForgeRegistries;
    import net.minecraftforge.registries.RegistryObject;
    
    public class ModBlocks {
        public static final DeferredRegister<Block> BLOCKS = DeferredRegister.create(ForgeRegistries.BLOCKS, "yourmodid");
        public static final DeferredRegister<Item> ITEMS = DeferredRegister.create(ForgeRegistries.ITEMS, "yourmodid");
    
        public static final RegistryObject<Block> CUSTOM_BLOCK = BLOCKS.register("custom_block", CustomBlock::new);
    
        @SubscribeEvent
        public static void onRegisterBlocks(RegistryEvent.Register<Block> event) {
            event.getRegistry().register(CUSTOM_BLOCK.get());
        }
    }
    

Step 4: Add Block to Creative Menu

Make your block easily accessible by adding it to the creative menu.

• Modify the Registry Class:

  • Add the block to a creative tab using the CreativeModeTabEvent:

    @SubscribeEvent
    public static void onCreativeTab(CreativeModeTabEvent.BuildContents event) {
        if (event.getTab() == CreativeModeTabs.BUILDING_BLOCKS) {
            event.getEntries().put(CUSTOM_BLOCK.get(), new BlockItem(CUSTOM_BLOCK.get(), new Item.Properties()));
        }
    }
    

Step 5: Build and Test Your Mod

After registering your block, it's time to build and test it in the game.

• Build Your Mod:

  • Use the build command in your IDE to compile your mod.

• Run Minecraft:

  • Launch Minecraft with the Forge profile and check if your custom block appears in the creative menu.

• Testing:

  • Place the block in the game to ensure it functions as expected.

Conclusion

You have successfully created and registered a custom block in Minecraft 1.20 using Forge. Make sure to explore additional features you can implement, such as unique textures and block behaviors. For further learning, consider diving into more advanced tutorials or experimenting with different block properties. Happy modding!