SimpleOreGen: Full Control Over Ore Generation
If you are assembling a modpack and need precise control over where ores appear, SimpleOreGen: Full Control Over Ore Generation is a compact tool that delivers. This add-on removes the rigid limits of vanilla ore spawning, letting you define exactly which blocks generate, at what height, and in which biomes or dimensions. It remains a reliable choice for Minecraft versions 1.8.9 through 1.12.2, making it a staple for legacy modpack builders who prioritize stability over constant updates.
Why Choose This Mod for Your Modpack
The core strength lies in its XML-based configuration system. You do not need to write code or dig through complex scripts. Instead, you edit plain text files that control every aspect of ore generation. This approach is ideal for pack developers who want repeatable, clean setups without relying on unstable beta features. The mod ships with example files, so even first-time users can understand the logic within minutes.
Key Configuration Options
- Set generation height and vein size for each block type.
- Apply a blacklist for biomes to prevent ores from appearing in forbidden areas.
- Support for custom dimensions and blocks added by other mods.
- Full metadata handling, including colored wool, different wood types, and ores from mods like Forestry or Immersive Engineering.
- Built-in commands to clear, count, or spawn veins on demand.
- Flat world mode for quick testing of generation schemes.
Powerful In-Game Commands
SimpleOreGen: Full Control Over Ore Generation for Minecraft adds several chat commands that simplify debugging and world editing. These tools are essential when you need to verify a config change or clear an area for construction.
/clearblocks removes specified blocks within a rectangular area around the player. You can target a group defined in your XML file, such as "ores", to delete only those blocks. Adding a true argument inverts the logic, clearing everything except the specified group. For example, /clearblocks 5 5 ores true strips away all stone while leaving ore blocks untouched.
/countblocks tallies blocks in a selected region. With the "ores" argument, it provides separate statistics for each ore type. This is useful for evaluating how generous your generation settings are after edits.
/spawnvein creates an ore vein at the player's location. You specify the Y coordinate, vein size, and block registry name. For instance, /spawnvein 5 8 minecraft:diamond_ore instantly places eight diamond ore blocks. The command also works with blocks from other mods using the modid:block_name format.
Biome and Dimension Filtering
Precise placement is straightforward. In the blockoregen.xml file, each block can have a biome blacklist. If a biome identifier appears in the list, the ore will never generate there. Dimension support lets you specify which worlds allow a block and which native block it replaces, such as stone in the Overworld or netherrack in the Nether. The logic checks biome first, then dimension, so you can build complex rules without confusion.
For those who manage multiple configurations, using a launcher with profile support simplifies the workflow. You can download SimpleOreGen: Full Control Over Ore Generation and activate it within a custom profile, keeping several setups ready without manual file copying.
Metadata and Cross-Mod Compatibility
Version 0.4.1 introduced generation for blocks with metadata. This means you can spawn specific variants, such as vertical oak logs or copper ore from Immersive Engineering. The syntax uses square brackets after the registry name. For example, minecraft:wool[color=black] creates black wool, and immersiveengineering:ore[type=copper] generates copper ore. All available properties are documented on the official wiki, making expansion straightforward.
Flat World Testing Mode
A dedicated flat world option is included. Flipping a single config parameter from false to true turns the entire landscape into a perfectly level plane. This is invaluable for testing new generation schemes quickly or capturing clean screenshots for your modpack presentation. No hills, no distractions, just a pure experimental environment.
Installation and Compatibility
To get started, download SimpleOreGen: Full Control Over Ore Generation and place the JAR file into the mods folder of your Minecraft instance. The mod requires a compatible loader for versions 1.8.9 to 1.12.2. After launching the game, the default config files will generate automatically. From there, edit the XML to match your desired generation rules. For guidance on how to install, the included examples and the official wiki cover common scenarios, from basic ore tweaks to complex multi-dimension setups.
Final Verdict
SimpleOreGen remains a benchmark for flexible ore control in its supported version range. It is not actively updated, but for players and pack developers working with 1.8.9–1.12.2, it offers a level of customization that few alternatives match. XML configs, real-time commands, metadata support, and dimension filtering turn ore generation into a creative, predictable process. If you are building a custom modpack or simply want a unique world, this mod deserves a place in your toolkit.