Time Stages

Minecraft modpacks often rely on game stages to control player access to items, dimensions, and mechanics. The GameStage API has become a cornerstone for pack developers, but managing stage progression usually requires manual triggers or complex scripting. Time Stages changes that by introducing a simple, elegant solution: time-based stage management. This add-on lets you automatically unlock or lock stages after a specified amount of time, opening up a world of possibilities for guided progression, timed challenges, and dynamic world evolution.

What Is Time Stages?

Time Stages is a lightweight add-on for the GameStage API. It does not add any new blocks, items, or dimensions on its own. Instead, it acts as a bridge between the passage of time and the stage system that many modpacks already use. With this mod installed, you can define rules that grant or revoke player stages based on how long they have been playing. Whether you want to start a pack with limited tools and slowly unlock technology tiers, or you need to lock a dangerous dimension after a certain number of in-game days, Time Stages makes it effortless.

How Time Stages Works

The mod reads configuration files where you specify stage names and time intervals. You can set a stage to unlock after, for example, 30 minutes of playtime, or lock a stage after 2 hours. The timer can be based on total world time, player-specific playtime, or even real-time if configured. Once the condition is met, the stage is automatically applied or removed through the GameStage API, and any mod that respects game stages will react accordingly. This means you can seamlessly integrate Time Stages with mods like CraftTweaker, KubeJS, or any other stage-aware content.

Key Features of Time Stages

• Time-based stage management: Unlock or lock stages after a defined duration.
• Full GameStage API integration: Works with any mod or script that uses the API.
• Flexible configuration: Set multiple stages with different timers in a single file.
• Supports locking and unlocking: Not just progression; you can also remove access to content over time.
• Lightweight and server-friendly: Minimal performance impact, ideal for large modpacks.

Compatibility and Supported Versions

Time Stages is designed to work with both Forge and Fabric mod loaders, making it accessible to a wide range of modpack creators. It currently supports Minecraft versions 1.16.5, 1.18.2, 1.19.2, and 1.20.1, with plans to update for future releases as the GameStage API evolves. Because it depends entirely on the GameStage API, you must have that mod installed first. The add-on itself is version-agnostic to some extent, but always check the mod page for the exact build that matches your loader and Minecraft version.

How to Install Time Stages

Installing Time Stages for Minecraft is straightforward. First, ensure you have the correct version of the GameStage API for your mod loader. Then, download Time Stages from a trusted source like CurseForge or Modrinth. Place both the API and the Time Stages jar files into your mods folder. If you are using a modpack manager, simply add the mod through its interface. For those who prefer a streamlined experience, the foxygame.net launcher offers a one-click installation of Time Stages directly from its built-in add-on catalog, automatically resolving dependencies and version conflicts so you can start configuring timed stages immediately. After installation, you will need to create a configuration file to define your time-based stage rules; the mod includes documentation and examples to help you get started.

Configuring Timed Stages

Once installed, Time Stages looks for a configuration file where you list the stages and their timers. A typical entry might specify that the stage "early_game" locks after 60 minutes, while "mid_game" unlocks after 120 minutes. You can use in-game days, ticks, or real-time minutes. The mod also supports commands to reload the configuration without restarting the server, which is a huge time-saver during pack development. Because it hooks directly into the GameStage API, any stage you define here will be recognized by other mods that check for stage conditions, such as restricting access to certain items or dimensions.

Practical Uses in Modpacks

Imagine a skyblock pack where players start with only basic resources. After 30 minutes, a stage unlocks that grants access to a cobblestone generator. After two hours, the Nether becomes available. With Time Stages, you can script this entire progression without a single line of code. Alternatively, you could create a hardcore experience where powerful tools are locked after a set time, forcing players to adapt. The mod also works beautifully with questing mods, allowing you to tie time-based stages to quest rewards or narrative events. The only limit is your creativity.

Why Choose Time Stages?

Many modpacks use complex command blocks or custom scripts to achieve time-gated progression. Time Stages simplifies this into a single, easy-to-edit configuration file. It reduces the risk of errors and makes your pack more maintainable. Additionally, because it is a dedicated add-on, it receives updates specifically focused on time-based stage management, ensuring compatibility with the latest GameStage API changes. Whether you are a seasoned modpack developer or just starting out, Time Stages for Minecraft gives you a powerful tool to shape player experience with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

Time Stages fills a crucial gap in the Minecraft modding ecosystem by adding time as a trigger for game stage progression. Its simplicity, combined with the flexibility of the GameStage API, makes it an essential utility for any modpack that wants to guide players through a curated experience. If you are looking to download Time Stages, head to the official mod pages and give your pack the gift of automated, time-based progression.