| Compare approaches | Mechanism | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| MCP servers | MCP exposes tools and data to a compatible client through a protocol; it does not replace Claude Code's mod pane API. | Choose MCP when the same tool or service must work with several compatible clients. |
| settings.json hooks | Settings hooks configure event-driven commands, HTTP requests or prompts. Mod hooks are functions running inside Claude Code. | Choose settings hooks for an existing formatter, notification or validation script. |
| skills | Skills package instructions in SKILL.md, optionally with supporting scripts and resources. They guide the agent rather than register a mod UI handler. | Choose a skill for a repeatable task with instructions and supporting resources. |
| Shell / statusLine | External scripts run in your shell. A statusLine command receives JSON and prints the status text. | Use a script for a simple text status or a task you can run independently. Use a mod when you need an interactive pane. |
CodeCraft is a Minecraft-style Claude Code HUD plugin: hearts represent remaining context, armor represents safety nets like tests/commits/pushes, the XP bar only rewards verified work, conversations look like game chat, and there are 60 achievements saved across sessions.
Recognize deployment commands, check the configured live URL and record verification results.
Summarize edits, runs and checks as a receipt for each turn, flagging unverified claims.
Use a script for a simple text status or a task you can run independently. Use a mod when you need an interactive pane.