Getting Started with Eclipse Launcher

Welcome to Eclipse! Whether you're setting up Minecraft for the first time or migrating from another launcher, this guide has everything you need to get up and running.

Step 1: Download & Install

Head to the Download page and grab the latest Windows installer. Eclipse is a lightweight download that includes everything you need — including Java runtimes for all Minecraft versions.

Run the installer, wait about 30 seconds, and you're done. Eclipse will appear on your desktop and start menu.

Note: Windows may display a SmartScreen warning since Eclipse is new and independently distributed. Simply click "More info" → "Run anyway" to proceed. A couple of AI-based antivirus engines may also flag a false positive — this is normal for new, unsigned software and isn't a real threat. It clears as we build download reputation and complete code-signing. You can read the full breakdown on our Security page.

Step 2: Create an Account or Log In

When you first open Eclipse, you'll see the login screen. You have three options:

• Microsoft Account — Click "Sign in with Microsoft" and follow the OAuth flow. This gives you access to premium servers and official Minecraft features.
• Eclipse Account — Create a free account on our website for full skin & cape customization. Use your Eclipse credentials to log in.
• Quick Play (Offline) — Enter any username to play instantly. No account needed — perfect for LAN parties or trying things out.

Step 3: Play Minecraft

That's literally it. Eclipse auto-detects installed versions and selects the latest one. Just hit Play. If it's your first time, it'll download the game files (usually takes 1-2 minutes depending on your connection), and then Minecraft launches.

Eclipse automatically picks the correct Java version for each Minecraft release — Java 8 for legacy versions, Java 17 for 1.18–1.20, Java 21 for 1.21+, and Java 25 for the very newest snapshots. Anything it doesn't already have is downloaded once, in the background, the first time you launch a version that needs it. You never have to think about it.

Step 4: Install Mods & Modpacks (Optional)

Want mods? Navigate to the Modpacks tab in the launcher sidebar. You can:

• Browse the entire Modrinth catalog directly from Eclipse
• One-click install any modpack
• Import .mrpack files by dragging them into the launcher
• Eclipse automatically handles the right modloader (Fabric, Forge, Quilt, NeoForge)

Step 5: Customize Your Look

Visit eclipsemc.online/customize to upload a custom skin or browse our cape gallery. Changes sync to the launcher instantly — your skin will appear in-game the next time you join a server.

Step 6: Host a Server

Want to play with friends? Go to the Servers tab, create a new server, and Eclipse handles everything — including the networking through ngrok or playit.gg tunneling. Share the generated address with your friends and you're in. No port forwarding required.

A Note on the Beta

Eclipse Launcher is currently in beta. The core experience is stable and ready for daily use, but we're still actively refining things and adding features on the way to a full release. If you run into a bug or have a feature suggestion, join our Discord — we read everything and ship fixes fast.

That's everything you need to get started. See you in-game.