Capes Mod — Guide
Mechanics
The mod operates through a sophisticated rendering engine that overrides the default player model's back layer. It functions through the following core mechanics:
Cape Fetching
Upon joining a world or server, the mod sends a request to the APIs of enabled cape providers. It uses the player's unique UUID to check if a cape is assigned to that account on services like OptiFine or MinecraftCapes. If a match is found, the texture is downloaded and applied in real-time.
Rendering & Animation
The mod supports standard 64x32 textures as well as high-definition (HD) and animated capes. The capes follow the player's movement physics, swaying during sprints and fluttering during falls.
Elytra Integration
One of the most significant features of the mod is its automatic Elytra skinning. When a player equips an Elytra while wearing a cape, the Elytra texture will automatically update to match the cape's design. This ensures a cohesive look even while flying.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Syncing | Visible to all users of the mod on any server. |
| Resolution | Supports standard, HD (up to 4K), and animated GIF/PNG formats. |
| Physics | Dynamic movement based on player velocity and environment. |
| Elytra | Automatic texture mapping from cape to wings. |
Supported Providers
The Capes Mod is compatible with a wide array of existing cape services. Players do not need to choose just one; the mod can check multiple sources simultaneously based on priority settings in the configuration.
- OptiFine: Displays capes owned by players who have donated to the OptiFine project.
- LabyMod: Supports the custom cloaks and cosmetics provided by the LabyMod client.
- MinecraftCapes: A free service that allows users to upload any custom image to be used as a cape.
- Mantle: Integration for capes provided by the Mantle cosmetic platform.
- 5Zig: Support for the legacy 5Zig mod cape system.
- Mojang Official: Automatically renders official capes (Migrator, Minecon, etc.) if the player owns them.
Customization
To "wear any cape you wish," players typically utilize the MinecraftCapes integration. This process allows for complete creative freedom:
- Design: Create a cape texture using an image editor or a tool like Blockbench. The standard size is 64x32 pixels, but HD versions (128x64, 256x128, etc.) are supported.
- Upload: Visit the supported provider's website (e.g., minecraftcapes.net) and upload the image to your account UUID.
- Activation: Ensure the provider is enabled in the mod's in-game configuration.
- Verification: Restart the game or use the "Refresh Capes" function to see the new design applied to your character.
