The current Minecraft Launcher
The old Minecraft Launcher
The Minecraft launcher is the login and downloader frontend to the stand-alone client. It is responsible for downloading the main java packages, including minecraft.jar, which holds the code and resources of the game such as textures. It also acts somewhat like a basic copy-protection by forcing the user to login to a paid account when running for the first time. It has been part of the stand-alone client since its inception.
Behavior
Every time the launcher is executed, it checks the a specific directory where Minecraft stores its files called .minecraft. It checks a file called "lastlogin" for login credentials. If the file does not exist or is corrupt the user must login with a valid premium account, otherwise the game will refuse to run.
When logging in, the launcher will first try to verify the login. If a valid "lastlogin" file exists but there is no internet connection, the launcher will offer a "Play offline" mode, allowing the user to play regardless. If the connection is successful, the launcher will then comparegvuo<dhsögfbyvjsgiusdglyxbhlgvi dshbvhgvl ui<svhldgsuvböxyASdföhyvjsbGVUIÖODFSJÖV ICH FICKE DEINE MUTTER ts and Java binary files.
Finally, upon a successful update or installation, the launcher will execute "minecraft.jar". It is possible however for there to be a valid and up-to-date "version" file but missing ".jar" files, in which case the launcher will hang.
Updated Launcher
A new version of the launcher had been in development since January 21, 2011.[1] Updates to the launcher currently include a smarter update system that only updates changed files, prompts the user to update, allows HTTPS logins for a more secure connection and general UI improvements. A technical sneak preview was published by Notch on February 18, 2011.[2] In addition, a link to the Minecraft install directory for easy access and a "Force Update" button can be found by clicking the "Options" button on the launcher's main window. The new launcher also features an inline "change log" via a Tumblr, and supports command-line arguments.[3] The new launcher was released on February 21, 2011.[4]
Command-line usage
Minecraft.jar (All Systems):
java -cp Minecraft.jar net.minecraft.LauncherFrame <username> <password> <server:port>
Minecraft.exe (Windows Executable):
Minecraft.exe <username> <password> <server:port>
Minecraft.jar (Windows - no CMD window):
javaw -cp Minecraft.jar net.minecraft.LauncherFrame <username> <password> <server:port>
References
See also
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