Why build a custom launcher?
A custom launcher is far more than a shortcut to Minecraft. It's a complete tool that automates mod installation, manages updates, and gives your players a premium experience. If you run a Minecraft server, a custom launcher eliminates most of the technical problems your players run into.
With CraftLauncher, you don't need any coding skills. The intuitive web dashboard lets you configure everything visually: branding, mods, servers, and automatic updates.
Choosing your solution
You have two options: build your launcher from scratch (DIY) or use a service like CraftLauncher. DIY requires Electron and Java knowledge, plus ongoing maintenance. CraftLauncher handles all the technical complexity for you.
CraftLauncher vs DIY
- No code to write or maintain
- CDN hosting included (Cloudflare R2)
- Web dashboard to manage the launcher from anywhere
Step 1: Create your account
Head to craftlauncher.app and create your account in seconds. Choose the plan that fits your needs: Basic for a single launcher, Pro to manage several servers, or Max for ambitious projects. You can switch plans at any time.
Step 2: Configure your launcher
From your dashboard, create a new launcher and configure it:
- 1Name your launcher and add your logo
- 2Choose your mod loader (Forge or Fabric)
- 3Select the target Minecraft version
- 4Customize the colors and background
Step 3: Add your mods
This is where the magic happens. You have several options for adding mods to your launcher:
- Modrinth import: search for a modpack and import it in one click
- Manual upload: drag and drop your .jar files into the dashboard
- Automatic RSS: track updates to your favorite mods (Pro plan)
Step 4: Publish and share
Once your launcher is configured, click "Generate". CraftLauncher compiles your custom installer in minutes. You get a direct download link you can share on Discord, your website, or social media.
Your players download the installer, run it, and everything is handled automatically: mod installation, server configuration, and future updates. Every time you edit your launcher in the dashboard, the changes propagate through the Cloudflare CDN to all your players.