Overview#
The Dark Enchanting mod is a significant overhaul of the vanilla Minecraft enchanting system, designed to eliminate the randomness associated with the standard Enchanting Table. It introduces the Dark Enchanter, a powerful block that allows players to manually select specific enchantments and their levels for tools, weapons, and armor.
By trading the unpredictability of vanilla enchanting for a higher experience point (XP) cost, the mod provides a more strategic and rewarding progression system. Additionally, the mod includes a repair mechanic and a multiblock structure known as the Dark Shrine to mitigate the high costs of advanced enchantments.
Getting Started#
To begin your journey into dark magic, you must first obtain a Dark Enchanter. This can be done in two ways: crafting the block directly or using a Table Upgrade on an existing vanilla Enchanting Table.
Initial Setup
- Crafting the Dark Enchanter: Use Crying Obsidian, Gold Ingots, Emeralds, and a vanilla Enchanting Table.
- Using the Table Upgrade: If you already have an Enchanting Table, craft the Table Upgrade item and Shift+Right-Click the table to transform it.
- The Dark Book: Some versions of the mod require a Dark Book as a core component for the table or as a guide. It is typically crafted using a Wither Skeleton Skull and a standard Book.
Blocks#
The mod adds several blocks essential for enchanting and cost reduction.
Dark Enchanter
The central hub for all enchanting activities. It features a custom GUI with sliders for selecting enchantment levels and buttons for enchanting ('E') and repairing ('R').
Dark Conduit
A specialized block used in the highest tier of the Dark Shrine. It acts as a focus for magical energy to provide the maximum possible XP discount.
| Block | Hardness | Blast Resistance | Tool Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Enchanter | 5.0 | 1200.0 | Diamond Pickaxe |
| Dark Conduit | 3.0 | 6.0 | Any Pickaxe |
Items#
Table Upgrade
A consumable item used to convert a standard Enchanting Table into a Dark Enchanter without needing to break and replace the block.
Dark Book
A dark variant of the standard book, often used as a crafting ingredient for the Dark Enchanter or the Table Upgrade. It represents the forbidden knowledge required to manipulate enchantments directly.
Mechanics: Enchanting & Repairing#
The Dark Enchanter provides a deterministic UI where players can see exactly what they are getting.
Enchanting Process
- Selection: Place an item in the slot. A list of all compatible enchantments will appear.
- Sliders: Use the sliders to set the desired level for each enchantment. You can even remove existing enchantments by sliding them to zero.
- Cost: The total XP cost is displayed on the left. This cost is calculated based on the "Net Power Change" of the item.
- Execution: Press the 'E' button to apply the changes.
Repairing Process
- The Dark Enchanter can repair damaged items using XP instead of materials.
- Place a damaged item in the slot and press the 'R' button.
- The cost is proportional to the amount of durability being restored.
Cost Calculation Factors
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Base Cost | A flat starting fee (default 35 XP). |
| Weight Factor | Rarer enchantments (like Mending) have a higher multiplier. |
| Treasure Factor | Treasure-only enchantments cost 4x more by default. |
| Curse Factor | Curses cost 3x more to apply or remove. |
Mechanics: The Dark Shrine#
Because selecting specific enchantments is expensive, players can build a Dark Shrine multiblock structure around the Dark Enchanter to receive significant XP discounts.
Shrine Tiers
- Tier 1 (Crying Obsidian Ring): Place a ring of Crying Obsidian on the ground, one block away from the Dark Enchanter (a 3x3 hollow square with the table in the center).
- Tier 2 (Bookshelf Ring): Place a second ring of Bookshelves outside the Crying Obsidian ring.
- Tier 3 (Pillars & Conduits): Build four pillars at the corners of the structure, 5 blocks high. Place a Dark Conduit on top of each pillar.
Discount Indicator: If the shrine is built correctly, a Star Symbol will appear next to the "Discount" percentage in the Dark Enchanter GUI. A fully optimized shrine can provide a discount of up to 40% or more depending on configuration.
Recipes#
Below are the standard crafting recipes for the mod's primary components.
| Result | Ingredients | Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Enchanter | 3x Crying Obsidian, 2x Emerald, 1x Enchanting Table, 3x Gold Ingot | [C, E, C], [G, T, G], [C, G, C] |
| Table Upgrade | 4x Crying Obsidian, 4x Gold Ingot, 1x Dark Book | [G, C, G], [C, B, C], [G, C, G] |
| Dark Conduit | 1x End Crystal, 4x Wither Skeleton Skull | [S, E, S], [S, , S], [, , ] |
| Dark Book | 1x Book, 1x Wither Skeleton Skull | [, S, ], [, B, ], [, , _] |
(Note: 'C' = Crying Obsidian, 'E' = Emerald, 'G' = Gold Ingot, 'T' = Enchanting Table, 'B' = Book/Dark Book, 'S' = Wither Skeleton Skull)
Technical Details & Modding#
The Dark Enchanting mod is designed with compatibility in mind, allowing other mod authors to integrate their enchantments or restrict them.
Blacklisting Enchantments
Modders or pack creators can prevent specific enchantments from appearing in the Dark Enchanter by using the following item tag:
dark_enchanting:blacklisted
Any enchantment added to this tag will be hidden from the Dark Enchanter UI, forcing players to obtain it through traditional means (like enchanted books or loot chests).
Configuration
The mod includes a comprehensive config file where server owners can adjust:
- Base XP costs.
- Multipliers for Treasure and Curse enchantments.
- Maximum discount percentages for the Dark Shrine.
- Repair cost scaling.
Future Plans#
The development team has outlined several features for future updates:
- Expanded Shrine Customization: Allowing different block types (like Diamond or Netherite) to provide unique bonuses to the shrine.
- Soul System: A potential new currency or requirement for the most powerful "Dark" enchantments.
- Visual Overhaul: Enhanced particle effects and animations when the Dark Shrine is active.
