Complementary Shaders 4.5.1 [repack] -
This version is one of the most popular shader packs because it balances stunning visuals with high performance, avoiding the "overexposed" look of other shaders.
Complementary Shaders v4.5.1: The Complete Guide 1. Prerequisites & Installation Before installing the shader, you need the correct mod loader and API. Required:
Minecraft Java Edition (1.16.5 to 1.20.4 - v4.5.1 works best on 1.20.1) OptiFine (HD U I5 or newer) OR Iris Shaders (Recommended for Fabric mod loader)
Installation Steps (Iris + Fabric):
Download the Iris Installer from their official website. Run it and install Iris into your Minecraft launcher. Download ComplementaryShaders_v4.5.1.zip (Do not unzip it). Launch Minecraft → Options → Video Settings → Shader Packs. Click "Open Shader Pack Folder" → Drag the .zip file in → Select it.
2. Initial Setup & Quick Config (Important) When you first enable v4.5.1, it will ask: "Internal or Reimagined?"
Complementary v4 (Internal): Faithful to Minecraft's original art style. Slightly brighter, clearer water, softer shadows. (Best for general survival/builds). Reimagined: Bolder, moodier, fantasy style. Darker caves, glowing emissive textures, more dramatic lighting. (Best for atmospheric exploration/horror). complementary shaders 4.5.1
Choose v4 (Internal) for your first run. Critical First Fix: If the sky is pure white or water is invisible:
Go to Shader Options → Quality → Set Hand/Water Depth to Off .
3. Performance Tuning (v4.5.1 Specific) v4.5.1 introduced a new "Potato" profile. Here is the FPS hierarchy: | Profile | FPS Impact | Best For | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Potato | +150% | Integrated GPUs (Intel UHD) or low-end laptops | | Low | +50% | GTX 1050 / 1060 | | Medium | Baseline | RTX 2060 / RX 6600 | | High | -30% | RTX 3060 Ti+ | | Ultra | -60% | RTX 3080+ (Adds volumetric fog, 8x shadows) | To change profile: Shader Options → Profile → Select your GPU tier. Secret Performance Tip: Turn Shadow Resolution down to 0.75x (Options → Shadows). You will barely see a difference, but gain 15-20% FPS. 4. Best Visual Settings for v4.5.1 These settings fix common complaints (too dark caves, blinding snow, ugly water). Lighting & Colors This version is one of the most popular
Light Shafts (God Rays): On (Spectacular at sunrise/sunset) Bloom Strength: 0.30 (Default 0.50 is too hazy) Warm Cold Overcast: 0.00 (Removes ugly blue tint on rainy days)
World & Caves