Shapeless Portals Data Pack FAQ
10 questions players actually ask, answered.
How do I make a portal that isn't a rectangle?
Place obsidian (or Crying Obsidian) in any shape you want, then use Flint and Steel or a Fire Charge on any block in your structure to light the entire portal at once. The data pack will recognize any connected obsidian formation as a valid portal frame.
Do I need to make a specific frame size?
No, this data pack removes the size restrictions of vanilla portals. Your portal can be as small or large as you want, as long as the obsidian blocks are connected.
Can I use Crying Obsidian instead of regular obsidian?
Yes, you can mix Crying Obsidian with regular obsidian or use it exclusively in your portal frame. Both block types work the same way with this data pack.
What's the difference between using Flint and Steel vs Fire Charge?
Both methods light your portal, but Fire Charges don't get consumed when you use them, while Flint and Steel will take durability damage. Choose whichever fits your playstyle.
Why isn't my portal lighting up?
Make sure all your obsidian blocks are touching each other (connected in a line or cluster), and that you're using Flint and Steel or a Fire Charge on an obsidian block that's part of the frame. If blocks aren't connected, the data pack won't recognize them as a single portal.
Can I make a circular or triangle-shaped portal?
Yes, you can create any shape you want by arranging obsidian blocks in that pattern. Circular, triangular, star-shaped—as long as the blocks connect, it will work as a portal.
Do I still need a 2-block-high opening inside the frame?
No, this data pack doesn't require an empty space inside your portal frame like vanilla portals do. The entire obsidian structure becomes the portal.
Will this data pack work with other mods or data packs?
Shapeless Portals is designed as a data pack and should work alongside most other data packs, though conflicts are possible if multiple packs modify portal behavior. Test it with your other content to be sure.
Can I make portals to places other than the Nether?
This data pack is designed for Nether portals specifically. It doesn't add the ability to create portals to other dimensions like the End.
Do custom-shaped portals work the same way as vanilla portals once I go through?
Yes, once you step through your custom portal, you'll travel to the Nether just like a normal portal would. The custom shape only affects how the portal looks, not how it functions.