Simple Clouds
Simple Clouds is a Minecraft: Java Edition modification that completely transforms cloud rendering by adding new types of cloud formations, stunning visual effects, and localized weather phenomena. It creates a stylized, atmospheric simulation of real meteorological events that seamlessly enhances the vanilla gaming experience.
Simple Clouds is currently in open beta, so you may encounter bugs, crashes, and unstable performance. Many features are still in development.
Key Features
Completely Overhauled Cloud System
- 7 unique cloud types based on real atmospheric formations
- Massive scale - clouds extend over 20,000 blocks using LOD technology for performance optimization
- "Storm fog" effect - characteristic haze appears beneath storm clouds, creating a threatening atmosphere at a distance
Localized Weather Effects
- Targeted precipitation - rain and snow only fall under clouds with appropriate weather conditions, with a completely redesigned visualization system
- Enhanced lightning - custom lightning effects with delayed thunder, visible both up close and from afar
- Many additional features in development!
Important Information
While Simple Clouds is based on real meteorological phenomena, it doesn't aim for complete realism of complex natural processes. This is primarily a stylized and aesthetic interpretation of real weather conditions.
The mod can be installed either as client-only or on the server side - for synchronization between players in multiplayer and proper functioning of localized weather effects.
Limitations with Client-Only Installation
(when connecting to servers without Simple Clouds installed)
- Localized weather effects are disabled, the standard vanilla global weather system is used
- Cloud positions are not saved, the seed for their generation is randomized each time you enter a world (you can set a custom seed to maintain cloud consistency)
Benefits of Server Installation
(in single player or on servers with the mod installed)
- Full-featured localized weather effects under storm clouds
- Cloud saving and synchronization with a unique seed for each world
Mod Configuration
Simple Clouds offers numerous configurable settings for fine-tuning various aspects - from performance to personal preferences. Access to configuration is available through the light blue "S" icon in the settings menu.
The mod also includes a built-in cloud editor accessible from the main configuration menu. You can customize existing or create your own cloud types, exporting them for use in datapacks and resource packs.
Technical Specifications
Simple Clouds is currently available only for Forge (version 1.20.1) and NeoForge (versions 1.21+). Support for older game versions or Fabric ports is not planned. Updates for newer Minecraft versions will be added as they become available.
How It Works
Simple Clouds uses compute shaders to generate clouds in semi-real time. The algorithm works by sampling a voxel grid and testing each cube against layers of 3D noise, which creates vertices to form clouds. All calculations are performed on the GPU, which handles such parallel tasks much more efficiently than the CPU.
Despite its high performance, Simple Clouds can noticeably affect FPS, especially on systems with outdated graphics cards. The client settings provide options for fine-tuning the mod to match your system's capabilities. Generally, modern graphics cards handle Simple Clouds rendering without problems. The developer is constantly working on optimizing the mod's performance.
Usage in Modpacks
Simple Clouds can be used in any mod pack, but you should consider possible compatibility issues with other modifications.
