How to play Minecraft on Linux and macOS
How to run modded Minecraft on Linux and macOS: installing TCLauncher, Java, .deb and .rpm packages and Apple Silicon.
Minecraft Java is cross-platform, and with mods it runs on Linux and macOS just like on Windows.
Installing
- Install Java 17 or newer (e.g. Temurin from Adoptium) — the launcher itself needs it.
- Download the jar or the package for your system from the site.
- Start it with a double click or
java -jar TCLauncher.jar.
For the game the launcher downloads the right Java itself.
macOS on Apple Silicon
Modern game versions run natively on M1–M4. Very old versions may need Intel Java through Rosetta.
Linux
- If the game doesn't see the GPU, check the drivers (Mesa or proprietary).
- On Wayland the game runs through XWayland.
Download TCLauncher — it's free.
FAQ
Do shaders work on macOS?
Iris works on macOS, but not every shader pack supports Apple's drivers. Pick packs marked macOS-compatible.
Do I need Java to run the launcher on Linux?
Yes, the jar version needs Java 17+. For the game itself the launcher downloads Java on its own.