Minecraft has evolved over the years not only in terms of gameplay but also in visual quality, thanks to the modding community. One of the most impressive resources for enhancing the gaming experience are shaders. In this context, one of the most anticipated packs is the MLYX Shader 3.0 Series Update, which has revolutionized how Minecraft looks, both in terms of visual effects and optimization. Below, we will explore the exciting new features and improvements in this groundbreaking update that takes the game’s graphics to a whole new level.
Replacing the Time System and Enhanced Lighting Effects
One of the most prominent features in the new version of MLYX Shader is the replacement of the time system, now based on fog color adjustment, which facilitates the creation of accurate lighting. This improvement aims to make reflections and overall lighting much more realistic. For example, the sunset scene now occurs later in the game, resulting in a more immersive experience. However, due to limitations of the forward rendering API, achieving both correct lighting and practicality simultaneously isn’t possible, but the update still finds a good balance between realism and functionality.
Complete Rewrite of Lighting
The update completely rewrote the game’s lighting system. This includes changes to both light sources and how light is reflected on blocks, with a particular emphasis on metallic, non-metallic, and translucent blocks. Now, lighting effects are more dynamic, creating a richer and more natural atmosphere, and reflections are more accurate based on the properties of each block’s material.
New Normalmap Effects and Water on the Ground
A significant advancement in this update is the addition of normalmap effects based on texture colors for certain blocks. This includes blocks like stone and also effects on water puddles on the ground, which now have a more detailed and dynamic texture. Normalmaps help make blocks appear more detailed and with more depth, improving the visual appearance of every element in the game.
Water puddles on the ground also see an improvement in the representation of water, achieving more realistic lighting effects and enhancing the realism when interacting with them.
Fresnel Reflections for Metallic and Translucent Blocks
Another key feature of this update is the implementation of Fresnel reflections for metallic, non-metallic, and certain translucent blocks. The Fresnel effect is based on how light reflects off a material’s surface depending on the viewing angle. This means metallic blocks now have more realistic reflections, adding an extra layer of realism to materials like gold, iron, and other reflective blocks. Additionally, translucent blocks such as glass and certain plant blocks also see improvements in how they interact with light.
Fog and Light Scattering Effects
The synchronization of boundary fog and light scattering effects has been imported from the Netease shader version, which is known for its stunning visual atmosphere. These effects simulate light scattering in the atmosphere, creating a more immersive and environmental feel in Minecraft scenes, especially in areas like mountains and oceans.
An option has been included for players who prefer an experience without boundary fog, offering a fog-less shader version, which provides greater clarity and performance for some users.
Subsurface Scattering for Translucent Blocks and Plants
One of the most exciting advancements is the implementation of subsurface scattering for certain translucent blocks and plants. Subsurface scattering occurs when light penetrates a material, like a leaf or translucent block, before being scattered or reflected. Although perfect rendering cannot be achieved due to current API limitations, the final result is still highly attractive and adds a more realistic touch to elements like plants and certain stone blocks.
Improved Underwater Lighting and Nether Enhancements
Underwater lighting has also been optimized, allowing for a more immersive atmosphere beneath the water. The colors and shadows now disperse more realistically underwater, resulting in a much more impressive and believable aquatic environment.
Additionally, improvements have been made to the Nether’s lighting, enhancing the fog transitions and light effects. This brings a more intense and eerie atmosphere to this dark dimension, while maintaining a consistent fog blend with version 2.0 of the shaders.
Overhauled Sky and Ground Lighting for the End
The lighting and sky in the End have also been reworked to improve the overall atmosphere. While maintaining the consistency of the world’s fog, the lighting now transitions more smoothly and attractively, perfectly complementing the surreal and mysterious tone of the End.
Subpacks for All Tastes and Better Performance
The MLYX Shader 3.0 comes with 8 different subpacks, allowing users to customize their experience based on their visual preferences and hardware performance. The subpacks include:
- Default
- Soft
- Lite
- Lite-Soft
- Default-Less Fog
- Soft-Less Fog
- Lite-Less Fog
- Lite-Soft-Less Fog
Each of these subpacks offers a different visual experience. While the “Lite” subpacks are optimized to deliver better performance on lower-end systems, the “Default” pack remains the best option for those seeking the most advanced visual experience. If you experience lag while using the default version, it’s recommended to try the Lite version for superior performance.
Conclusion
The MLYX Shader 3.0 Series Update has brought a wealth of improvements that make Minecraft look more stunning than ever before. From new lighting techniques to more realistic water effects, fog, and light scattering, this update takes the visual experience of the game to new heights. If you’re a fan of Minecraft’s graphics or simply want to make the game look more impressive, this shader is definitely worth checking out. And if you have a lower-end system, the Lite subpacks ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Minecraft without sacrificing performance.