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Install Complementary with Iris

Iris is the recommended way to run Complementary Shaders on modern Minecraft Java Edition with Fabric or Quilt.

Install Fabric and Sodium, add Iris, download Unbound or Reimagined as a ZIP, then enable the pack under Video Settings → Shaders. Files: Unbound or Reimagined. Other loaders: how to install.

Get Unbound ZIP Fabric and Sodium first

Build the Iris stack

Install the Fabric or Quilt loader for your Minecraft version. Add Iris, then add Sodium unless a modpack already includes an equivalent renderer.

Create a dedicated launcher profile so vanilla or OptiFine installs stay untouched.

  1. Install Fabric or Quilt for your exact game version.
  2. Drop Iris into the mods folder.
  3. Add Sodium (recommended) and any required API mods your loader needs.
  4. Launch once to confirm the Iris shaders button appears.
  5. Install Complementary Unbound or Reimagined into shaderpacks.
  6. Select the pack and choose Medium or Potato.

Iris tips that prevent headaches

Match Iris and Sodium builds to your Minecraft version. Mixing versions is a top crash cause.

Avoid OptiFine in the same mods folder. Iris replaces that role.

After enabling Complementary Shaders, raise render distance gradually. Shader cost scales with scene complexity.

If Iris fails to show shaders

Confirm Iris loaded in the mods list. Then verify the ZIP sits directly in shaderpacks. If the game launches but the world is black, use the black screen guide and the troubleshooting page.

Iris + Complementary checklist

  1. Match Fabric/Quilt, Iris, and Sodium builds to the same Minecraft version.
  2. Launch once with shaders off to confirm the game is stable.
  3. Download Unbound or Reimagined and keep the ZIP in shaderpacks.
  4. Enable the pack, start on Medium or Potato, then validate outdoors and underground.
  5. If FPS collapses, follow the FPS boost guide before blaming Iris itself.

Still missing a Shaders button? Confirm Iris loaded in the mods list, then revisit Fabric and Sodium order.

When to use OptiFine instead

If your modpack is built around OptiFine, use the OptiFine install guide instead of forcing Iris into that pack.

For new personal profiles on current Java, Iris remains the cleaner default for Complementary Shaders.

Common questions

No, OptiFine can work, but Iris is the path we recommend for current Java versions.
Strongly recommended for FPS. Iris can run without it, but Sodium usually feels smoother with Complementary. See Fabric and Sodium.
Use Unbound or Reimagined.
Yes after the base Complementary pack works. Read Euphoria Patches before adding extras.

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