Cobblemon vs. Pixelmon: Which Minecraft Pokémon mod should you choose?

Cobblemon vs. Pixelmon: Which Minecraft Pokémon mod should you choose?

Minecraft mods have added unique elements to the game for years, but few capture the imagination like Pokémon mods. Among them, Cobblemon and Pixelmon stand out as Pokémon legends.

Cobblemon integrates Pokémon activities into Minecraft’s gameplay, allowing players to catch and train Pokémon while focusing on crafting and exploration. At the same time, Pixelmon provides a full Pokémon experience, complete with battles and gyms. Pixelmon uses detailed 3D models for its Pokémon, while Cobblemon sticks to the classic blocky style of Minecraft.

In this article, we look at the features and performance of both mods. Whether you’re a new or a seasoned player, these comparisons will help you choose the best way to play Minecraft with a Pokémon twist.

What is Cobblemon?

Released in 2023, Cobblemon appeals to players seeking simplicity and integration with Minecraft’s aesthetic rather than a fully separate Pokémon experience. Unlike mods that drastically change Minecraft’s gameplay, Cobblemon keeps the game’s core mechanics intact.

Cobblemon performance, gameplay, and customization

Instead of overwhelming players with complex new systems, Cobblemon’s gameplay experience introduces Pokémon-specific activities like catching, training, and evolving in a way that feels right at home within Minecraft.

Players still explore, gather resources, and craft, but with the added excitement of building and training a Pokémon team. The mod balances this by letting players enjoy a true Pokémon experience without losing Minecraft’s charm.

Cobblemon customization is simple with community-created add-ons. Players can adjust spawn rates, add unique biomes for specific Pokémon, or introduce custom Pokéballs.

Cobblemon offers 100+ Pokémon species, including Charmander, Eevee, and Snorlax. It also allows players to import their own custom Pokémon. Compared to other mods with hundreds of Pokémon, like Pixelmon, players might find the smaller roster limiting

Although Cobblemon’s simplicity is appealing, it also means fewer features. This might disappoint players looking for a more extensive Pokémon experience. If you crave more, you can enhance the basic Cobblemon gameplay experience with plugins like the Pokémon battle mod Cobblemon Challenge.

Cobblemon community support

Being a newer mod, Cobblemon has fewer community resources and support, making it harder for players to find help when necessary. Since it’s open-source, an active community contributes updates and additional customizations.

What is Pixelmon?

Pixelmon is considered one of the best mods in the Minecraft community, celebrated for its extensive features and polished gameplay. It re-creates a full experience with 3D models and interactive elements.

Pixelmon performance, gameplay, and customization

Pixelmon gameplay mechanics allow players to capture, battle, and train Pokémon while exploring varied biomes filled with unique items and encounters. With features like breeding, trading, and even creating themed gyms, Pixelmon offers a depth that keeps players engaged in a vibrant, Pokémon-filled world.

The Pixelmon modpack features additional mods that enhance gameplay, like Journey Map for custom maps and Biomes O’ Plenty for new environments. It also includes mods like Graveyard, which introduces eerie structures and hidden loot.

While Pixelmon has over 900 Pokémon, including favorites like Pikachu, Charizard, and Gengar, managing this large roster can feel overwhelming for newcomers. Players who prefer a more straightforward experience might also find the depth of features confusing.

Pixelmon can be resource-intensive and demands a more powerful server, especially if you’re using high-quality textures or playing with multiple friends. To ensure smooth gameplay, it’s important to choose a hosting plan that matches these requirements. This is where Hostinger’s Minecraft hosting comes in.

If you use a small to medium-sized server, the Game Panel 2 plan is a great fit. With 2 vCPU cores, 8 GB RAM, and 100 GB NVMe storage, it provides enough power to handle Pixelmon’s demands without breaking the bank. If you’re hosting a larger group or adding more mods, the Game Panel 4 plan offering 4 vCPU cores, 16 GB RAM, and 200 GB NVMe storage would be a better choice.

Both plans include global data centers for low latency and Linux-based systems, ensuring you get the best performance wherever you play.

With so many customization options, a dedicated Pixelmon server setup and understanding the process of installing Minecraft mods is also crucial. You’ll want to ensure your server has enough resources to handle the mod’s demands. Learn more about setting up a Minecraft server to ensure your setup is optimized for multiplayer fun.

Pixelmon community support

Pixelmon’s dedicated community includes guides and online forums where players can seek advice, join servers, and even participate in events.

Which mod should you choose: Cobblemon or Pixelmon?

If you’re looking for a more integrated Minecraft experience with Pokémon elements, Cobblemon is a lightweight Minecraft mod that is ideal for its simplicity. But for the full Pokémon adventure, Pixelmon is the way to go.

To help you decide, here’s a direct comparison of each Pokémon Minecraft mod:

FeatureCobblemonPixelmon
CompatibilityCompatible with Minecraft versions 1.19.2 and 1.20, installation requires Fabric or ForgeCompatible with Minecraft versions 1.12.2, 1.16.5, and 1.20.2 (alpha), installation requires Forge
GameplayFind, catch, train, and evolve Pokémon species with features like unique Pokémon types, customized moves, and a simplified PokédexFind, catch, evolve, and train Pokémon – includes multiple activities like battles, shops, and quests
PerformanceLightweight, minimal lag due to simpler models and fewer dependenciesHeavier on resources due to complex features and detailed 3D models. Requires specific dependencies
Visual styleBlocky, Minecraft-style designsDetailed 3D models
ImmersionSimplified Pokémon experienceFeels like a stand-alone game
CustomizationEasy to customize with limited options, ideal for players who want simplicityExtensive customization options are available but may require more effort to set up and configure
CommunityGrowing community, resources may be difficult to findLarge community with extensive resources

Conclusion

Choosing between Cobblemon and Pixelmon depends on what kind of Pokémon experience you want in Minecraft. Try both Minecraft Pokémon mods to see which one feels right for your play style.

Whether you’re drawn to Cobblemon’s straightforward charm and the freedom to customize your Pokémon or you love Pixelmon’s massive roster and packed features, both bring something special to your Minecraft journey. In the end, the best choice is simply the one that makes your adventures the most exciting and memorable.

Cobblemon vs. Pixelmon FAQ

Which mod offers more Pokémon?

Currently, Pixelmon offers 997 Pokémon thanks to its many years of development and consistent updates. Cobblemon, as a newer mod, features a smaller roster of around 100 Pokémon. 

Can I play these mods on the latest version of Minecraft?

Yes, both Cobblemon and Pixelmon are frequently updated so they work with the most recent Minecraft version. 

Can I use other mods with Pixelmon or Cobblemon?

Yes, Cobblemon and Pixelmon are compatible with other mods, though Pixelmon’s extensive features may cause performance issues if many additional mods are installed. 
Some players recommend optimizing mods, like OptiFine, to enhance performance and manage resources more effectively.

Author
The author

Valentinas C.

Valentinas Čirba is a VPS Product Manager. His physics degree and 10+ years of experience in the software industry make him an expert in virtualization and cloud technologies. He is passionate about making complex things simple for end users. When he's not working, Valentinas likes to spend time with his family and friends. He also enjoys playing chess and doing crossword puzzles.