Share Resource Packs Across Multiple Game Versions
Place Resource Packs in Your Global Directory
Once your global directory is set up, create a resourcepacks folder inside it (if it doesn't already exist). Copy or move any resource packs you want to share into this folder.
Access Shared Packs in Each Instance
Launch your first Minecraft instance (for example, version 1.12.2). Open the resource pack selection screen. You'll see both your instance-local packs and the packs from your global directory listed together. Select the ones you want to use.
Repeat this process for your second instance (for example, version 1.16.5). The same resource packs from your global directory will appear here too, allowing you to activate them without duplicating files.
Note on Compatibility
Be aware that resource packs designed for one version may not work perfectly in another. The mod merges the directories, but it doesn't convert pack formats. Test your chosen packs in each version to ensure they display correctly.