Chroma Tools & Utilities

This minor update brings a breath of fresh air to the mod! Not only does it finally introduce Chromatic Armor, but it also removes the entire level system — Level 1, 2, 3, and Shiny are gone.

How this works, why the change was made, and what’s planned for the future — you’ll find all the answers in this article.

Removal of Levels

Version 1.2.0 removes all equipment levels. That means: From now on, just like in Vanilla Minecraft, each tool type will only have one specific version.

-> How does the new system work?

Not much changes in terms of functionality. You now only have to upgrade a tool once — using the Chromatic Ingot (not the Nugget). All the stats, effects, and cosmetics from the former Shiny Level have been carried over to this new single upgrade.

-> Why was this change made?

The previous tiered system just didn’t feel like a natural fit for Minecraft — especially not for a Vanilla+ mod. Since Chroma Tools & Utilities is meant to stay true to that Vanilla+ philosophy, the tool system has now been adjusted to better reflect how things work in the base game.

-> Why now, right after the Shiny Update?

Mod updates aren't developed and then immediately released. Each update is completed and stored until it’s time for release. Unfortunately, in this case, the Shiny Update and the level removal update overlapped — a very unlucky coincidence. This kind of situation shouldn't happen again in the future.

-> What happens to my current tools?

Since all levels have been removed, the related tools will no longer exist. We recommend using commands to give yourself the new, level-less Chromatic Tools manually. If a similar change ever happens again, there will be an automatic replacement system for affected items.

-> What does the future look like?

This change may remove some content for now, but in return, future updates will come more frequently, and the planned major update is being pushed forward. There will always be something new to discover — and we strongly believe this change is a big step forward for the future of the mod.

-> What happens to the Shiny Star?

The Shiny Star will remain in the game, but it's currently not usable. However, it’s still worth collecting them — because very soon, new and exciting uses will be introduced! The current plan is to use them for crafting unique and powerful special items in future updates.

Chromatic Armor is here

At long last, the Chromatic armor set has been added — including Helmet, Chestplate, Leggings, and Boots. This new armor is Vanilla+ friendly, well-balanced, and fits naturally into the game alongside existing gear.

It can do everything you’d expect from a standard Minecraft armor set. However, for now, it does not provide any cosmetic or special effects — at least not yet.

Crafting recipes

Each piece of Chromatic Armor is crafted the same way as the Chromatic Tools — using a netherite armor piece combined with a Chromatic Ingot and a Chromatic Upgrade Template.

Crafting recipe

Bugs / Tech

• A major code refactor was done to fully remove the level system from the mod. However, a few leftover assets and textures from the old system may still be hidden within the game files. These have no impact on gameplay and will be cleaned up in future versions.
• The bug preventing the Chromatic Ingot from being used as an Armor Trim material still hasn’t been fully resolved. For now, the temporary workaround remains in place: crafting the ingot through the crafting table (not via commands or creative menu) should allow it to function as intended.
• There are already preliminary implementations in the code for upcoming updates, including the next minor and even major update.
• Additional remnants of beta test items have been removed from the game.