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Safe setup

Cave Dweller Mod Installation Guide

A reliable install is not about dragging random files into a folder. Match the Minecraft version, loader and dependencies first, then add the mod to that exact game instance.

Before you install

  • Back up worlds you care about.
  • Confirm the exact Minecraft Java version.
  • Know whether the instance uses Forge, Fabric or NeoForge.
  • Download only the file meant for that combination.

Step 1: Install the correct mod loader

Use the loader required by your chosen Cave Dweller project. The original release targets Forge, while separate ports can support Fabric or NeoForge. A Fabric mod will not become a Forge mod by renaming the file.

Step 2: Install required libraries

Many Cave Dweller projects require GeckoLib because the creature uses animated models. Some Fabric versions can require Fabric API or another library. Use the dependency section on the same project page as your mod file.

Step 3: Find the instance mods folder

Launchers can isolate game instances. The safest method is to open the folder from the launcher profile you are actually using, then locate its mods directory. Create it only if your loader setup expects one and it does not exist.

Step 4: Add the .jar

Place the Cave Dweller file and required dependencies in the same instance’s mods folder. Do not unzip a normal mod .jar unless the author specifically says to do so.

Step 5: Test in a new world

Start the game and confirm the Mods screen or loader log recognizes the project. Test a temporary world first before opening a long-term save.

Server setup: if the project supports client and server, the server must use the correct loader and required server-side files too. Client-only and server-required behavior differs by project.

If the game crashes

Read the first useful error in the log. Missing dependency, incompatible mod set and wrong loader version are common. The troubleshooting guide gives a clean isolation process.