Server Update
MinecraftOnline has been on version 1.12.2 for a while. This page intends to describe the reasons why we haven't updated past this version yet.
Reasons for not updating
- Requirement for a stable, bug-free server after the update
- In addition to plugins being written by developers, they will also need to be tested to ensure stability and a bug-free experience. This will take time!
- Plugins must be updated, and some plugins are not supported anymore
- Lack of time from volunteer developers
What version will we update to?
This is subject to change as development continues, but the current target is Minecraft 1.21.1, which corresponds to SpongeAPI 12. We are currently targeting this version (as opposed to newer versions) as it is the latest LTS release of SpongeAPI.
Technical challenges with updating
Currently, MinecraftOnline is on SpongeAPI version 7, which is remarkably different to versions thereafter, most notably due to technical changes from version 1.12.2 to versions 1.13+, dubbed 'The Flattening' by the wider Minecraft community. As a result, API 8 (1.16.5) changed lots of methods in the API, requiring reworks of most of the plugins.
Exec
Exec is an in-game command system allowing scripts to be run instead of Java commands. Some of these commands are /spawn, /warp, /home, and hundreds more. This sounded like a good idea all those years ago, but has proven problematic as MCO has grown. After Minecraft version 1.12.2, Exec will be deprecated in favour of native Java commands which means hundreds of commands require being re-written in Java.
When is the update?
There is no time estimate currently. Just sit patiently and wait.
How can I contribute?
We'd love your contribution! Take a look at our GitLab and see what repositories don't currently have a branch or merge request for API 12 (which is our target)
Before going ahead and porting an entire plugin to a newer version, check in with a developer to make sure someone else isn't already doing it! I (
MrSlimeDiamond) am happy to guide you, feel free to reach out.
Also be sure to make sure that you have a good understanding of the Java programming language alongside an understanding of SpongeAPI.