Update!! I heavily recommend upgrading to my newest datapack, Ore Generation 2. The new pack offers better performance as well as more balanced and interesting ore distribution.


Since the removal of the custom ore generation options in 1.9, there has been a gap left in the Minecraft experience.

We all remember our first time finding diamonds (and then falling in lava), but that doesn't mean we want to relive the hours of mining it took.

For those who want to spend more time experiencing the game and less time branch mining, Nicer Ore Distribution can help.

Recipes and block loot tables are modified to give a little more of everything, and andesite, granite, and diorite veins below y=30 have been replaced by additional diamond, lapis, redstone, and iron ore.

The pack has not been server-tested because I wrote it today and it's 2am now, but the functions and recipes should be fairly simple to edit for your own preferences.

Performance is pretty good as I still get 60fps with it running. However, since the pack functions by actively replacing blocks around you as you explore it will never be as efficient as a mod to manipulate ore generation. The tradeoff is the drag-and-drop convenience of a datapack and compatibility with Minecraft Realms.