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How to install "Photon Shaders"

A gameplay-focused shader pack with a semi-realistic style

Author

sixthsurge

Downloads

18.2M

Last Updated

Apr 14, 2026

License

LicenseRef-

Minecraft Versions

26.1.2 1.21.11 1.20.6 1.19.4 1.18.2 1.17.1
atmosphere bloom colored-lighting foliage high iris low medium optifine pbr reflections semi-realistic shadows

Quick Install ID

#photon-shader

Install Photon Shaders in GDLauncher

  1. Open GDLauncher and pick (or create) the instance you want to add Photon Shaders to.
  2. Open the Addons tab and click Add Addons.
  3. Paste the Quick Install ID #photon-shader, select Photon Shaders, and click Download. GDLauncher handles dependencies and version matching automatically.
  4. Hit Play and you're done.

Before you install

Make sure your Minecraft version matches what Photon Shaders supports. As of the latest release, 26.1.2, 1.21.11, 1.20.6 are supported. GDLauncher checks compatibility for you and won't install something incompatible with the instance you've chosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photon Shaders free?

Yes. Photon Shaders is free to download and install through GDLauncher. GDLauncher itself is also free and ad-free.

What Minecraft versions does Photon Shaders support?

Photon Shaders supports Minecraft 26.1.2, 1.21.11, 1.20.6, 1.19.4, 1.18.2, 1.17.1. GDLauncher will automatically pick a compatible version when you install it.

Does Photon Shaders require Forge or Fabric?

Check the Modrinth page for Photon Shaders to see which mod loader it supports. GDLauncher will install the correct loader automatically once you pick the addon.

How do I install Photon Shaders?

Open GDLauncher, go to your instance's Addons tab, click Add Addons, and paste the Quick Install ID #photon-shader. GDLauncher handles dependencies and the right Minecraft version automatically.

Who made Photon Shaders?

Photon Shaders is made by sixthsurge. The full project lives on Modrinth (https://modrinth.com/shader/photon-shader).

Need help?

Read our troubleshooting guide, check the guides section, or join the GDLauncher Discord community.

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