PolyMC

What PolyMC is

PolyMC is an open source Minecraft launcher for keeping game instances, accounts, and mods organized. Each instance uses its own folder for mods, resource packs, settings, and other files, so you can maintain separate configurations. The launcher supports Forge, Fabric, LiteLoader, and Quilt, and its built-in catalog includes modpacks from CurseForge, Technic, FTB, FTB Legacy, and Modrinth. You can also install individual mods from CurseForge and Modrinth that match the selected loader and game version. PolyMC manages worlds, resource packs, and shader packs, and gives access to logs and a control for stopping Minecraft if it crashes or freezes. It includes Java runtime management, but you need to choose the Java version for each instance yourself. The instance window and theme can be customized. PolyMC is free on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Its code is licensed under GPL-3; its logo and related assets use CC BY-SA 4.0. The current macOS build supports Apple Silicon, while Intel Mac users are directed to a legacy universal build. For help, the project points users to its issue tracker or Discord server.

Who it suits

PolyMC suits Minecraft players who want separate configurations for different mods, loaders, worlds, and resource packs. It is also a fit for players who want to find modpacks in a built-in catalog or manage instances across Linux, macOS, and Windows.

Limits

PolyMC does not automatically select the correct Java version for an instance; users must choose it manually. The current macOS build is Apple Silicon only, with Intel Mac users directed to the legacy universal build.

Getting started

1. Visit the PolyMC website.
2. Download the build for Linux, macOS, or Windows; Intel Mac users are directed to the legacy universal build.
3. Create a Minecraft instance and select a supported mod loader.
4. Choose the Java version for the instance manually.
5. Install modpacks from the built-in catalog or add individual mods from CurseForge or Modrinth.

Verdict

Choose PolyMC if you want a free launcher for managing separate Minecraft setups and modpacks from several catalogs. Look elsewhere if you need the launcher to choose the right Java version automatically or use the current macOS build on an Intel Mac.