Old, Removed and Newer Features
Minecraft has evolved dramatically since its earliest days. From the golden age of Survival Test to the sprawling updates of today, countless blocks, mobs, and mechanics have been left behind or are still waiting in the wings. For players who crave a taste of both the past and the future simultaneously, the Old, Removed and Newer Features mod is a fascinating time machine. This project, crafted by a developer known as SillyMan, aims to bridge the gap between generations, re-adding beloved legacy content while pulling in exciting elements from more recent releases.
What Does This Mod Actually Do?
At its core, the Old, Removed and Newer Features mod is a passion project focused on content restoration and forward-looking additions. It is not a total conversion; instead, it layers missing pieces onto the vanilla experience. The mod's ambitious roadmap includes bringing back the fabled Sky Dimension, overhauling oceans with 1.13-style content, and reintroducing zombie pigmen in their classic form. It also aims to tweak ore generation to feel more like the old days, when finding diamonds was a heart-pounding event.
However, it is crucial to understand the current state of this project. The developer has explicitly stated that the project is abandoned for the time being. While this means you won't get a constant stream of updates, the existing versions still offer a unique glimpse into what could have been. The mod currently supports older versions of the game, specifically those around the 1.12 era, and is built for the Forge loader. If you are playing on a modern version like 1.20 or 1.21, you will need to create a separate modded profile to enjoy this content.
Exploring the Feature List
Despite its incomplete state, the mod packs a surprising amount of content. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to find when you download Old, Removed and Newer Features for Minecraft:
Revived Legacy Blocks and Items
- Ruby Ore and Rubies: A classic from the very early days, ruby ore generates naturally in the world, allowing you to craft ruby blocks.
- Glowing Obsidian: This block acts as a light source, adding a mystical purple glow to your builds.
- Crying Obsidian: While it doesn't set your spawn point (yet), it serves as a decorative and nostalgic block.
- Fluff: A wool-like block that offers a different texture for builders looking for variety.
- Double Dirt Slabs: A quirky addition that, according to the changelog, is "far too powerful for the entire universe" and will crash your game if you craft it. Consider it a comedic easter egg.
Newer Content Additions
- Scaffolding: Pulled from the 1.14 update, this block is included, though it may not render or function perfectly in the older codebase.
- Heart of the Sea: Another modern item that is currently non-functional but exists in the game's inventory for future use.
Mob and Dimension Plans
- Zombie Pigmen: The original Nether mobs are present, though they do not spawn naturally in the current build. The developer had plans for pigmen villages, which remain unimplemented.
- Sky Dimension: This is on the todo list, aiming to recreate the fabled dimension that was cut from the game long ago.
Installation Guide: How to Install
Getting this mod running requires a bit of retro gaming setup. Since the mod targets older versions, you cannot simply drop it into a modern instance. To install Old, Removed and Newer Features, you will first need to install the correct version of Minecraft and the Forge loader. Specifically, you should look for versions compatible with the 1.12.2 or 1.12 era. Once you have Forge installed, you simply place the downloaded JAR file into your mods folder and launch the game.
For those who find manual installation tedious, using a launcher with integrated mod management can save a lot of time. The foxygame.net launcher simplifies the process significantly; its built-in add-on catalog allows you to search for Old, Removed and Newer Features and install it with a single click, automatically handling version compatibility and dependency checks. This means you can spend less time wrestling with file directories and more time actually exploring the nostalgic content.
The Developer's Honest Q&A
The mod's CurseForge page features a candid Q&A section that gives insight into the project's limitations. When asked about updating to 1.15.2, the developer's response was a blunt "No," citing the difficulty of porting to newer codebases. They noted that the only real reason for 1.15 would be old features, suggesting players make an MCreator mod if they want it that badly. Regarding the Nether update, the developer expressed interest in the idea of netherrack and related blocks, saying "I'll see what I can do." The answer to the 1.13 question was more hopeful, with a promise of "Absolutely, one day."
Changelog Highlights and Current Status
The mod has gone through several rewrites, often due to tooling issues like Eclipse being "kinda dumb." The changelog from version 1 to the rewrite shows a shift in focus: scaffolding was added (though broken), the Heart of the Sea was introduced (non-functional), and nearly everything else was removed to start fresh. This iterative process shows a developer experimenting with the boundaries of what can be backported to older engines.
Is It Worth Downloading?
If you are a veteran player feeling nostalgic for the days of rubies and glowing obsidian, or if you are simply curious about how future features would look in a classic engine, this mod is a quirky piece of Minecraft history worth trying. It is not a polished, feature-complete experience, but it is a labor of love that offers a unique perspective. Just remember to manage your expectations regarding bugs and missing features. For the best experience, ensure you are using the correct Forge version and consider using a launcher that offers automatic updates and version detection to avoid common pitfalls. While the project is currently on hold, its legacy lives on for those willing to explore the in-between eras of Minecraft's evolution.