Minecraft HD Texture Packs
Love Minecraft but hate the default textures? High definition texture packs are more than capable of transforming the entire Minecraft experience. All of the texture packs mentioned in this article can be installed with Xau's HD Texture Fix and I highly reccomend that you make use of it. It fixes issues with HD texture packs (flames appearing on bricks, etc) and takes all the hassle out of HD texture installs.
Be aware before you install any of these that unlike 16 x texture packs, which can simply be added to the texture pack folded in your Minecraft folder and are easily switched between, HD texture packs replace the default texture pack and once they're installed you're stuck with them until you either install another HD texture pack or download a clean install.
I have personally play tested all the HD texture packs listed below, and in these reviews you'll find screenshots and general notes on each texture pack. Of course, tastes tend to be subjective and your mileage may vary.
BorderCraft, Borderlands HD Minecraft Texture Pack (64 x 64) (128 x 128)
This is one of my personal favorites, and it is available in both 64x and 128x, which means it is suitable for people who want to push the limits and those who just want something that looks good. Bordercraft is based on the graphics in Borderlands, and as such has a gritty, but somewhat cartoon psychedelic appearance that I think you'll probably enjoy.
Soartex HD Minecraft Texture Pack (64 x 64)
Soartex is another HD texture pack I'm particularly fond of. In this case, I really enjoy the slick, smooth style of the textures. There's something very reminiscent of Japanese animation about them (which makes a great deal of sense because the creator of this texture pack is a Japanese artist.) Soartex has a very rich, almost well mannered appeal, perfect for Minecrafters who enjoy imposing gentle order on the surrounding terrain.
Albion HD Minecraft Texture Pack (64 x 64)
Another HD texture pack modeled on a game by the same name, I primarily recommend Albion for its stunning biomes. Real effort has gone into creating excellent world environment textures, which is somewhat rare. Most HD texture packs tend to put emphasis on the creative materials (cobblestone, doors, windows etc) it's rare to find a pack that puts the environment first. That's not to say the creative textures are shabby, they're also very well done. This is a well rounded fantasy / RPG pack worth a download.
Tronic Revamped HD Minecraft Texture Pack (32 x 32)
Representing the 'clean and simple' texture pack style is Tronic. This HD texture pack almost defies the point of HD texture packs by having incredibly simple graphics, but the high resolution isn't entirely wasted, it facilitates clarity in the graphics. These things are as crisp and clean as a new apple.
Mythos HD Minecraft Horror Texture Pack (32 x 32)
If you're searching for a texture pack that does things differently, it's pretty hard to go past Mythos: Shadow Over Minecraft. This steampunk / horror texture pack based on the writings of HP Lovecraft is absolutely incredible in the way it plays with the Minecraft experience, injecting dread into every movement. The textures are well done and it really feels as if every element has been considered not only for its appearance, but for its emotional impact. Expect a great deal of browns and greens and unearthly blues in this pack. Oh and the earth explodes... did I mention that?
John Smith Minecraft HD Texture Pack (32 x 32)
John Smith is a popular texture pack that makes the most of Minecraft's natural beauty. You might be forgiven for thinking that Minecraft doesn't possess much natural beauty (although you'd also probably be committed shortly after being forgiven because Minecraft landscapes can be unbelievably beautiful.) John Smith makes the most of the mountains and the rolling valleys and the surprise lakes and the lava pools and all the rest of it.
LB Photo Realistic Minecraft HD Texture Pack (64 x 64) (128 x 128) (256 x 256)
Rounding out this round up of HD texture packs is LB Photo Realistic texture pack. If you want to really push the boundaries of what Minecraft can handle in terms of realism and resolution, then this is the texture pack you want to install.
