Returning to modded MC after 6+ years, 1.12 era

Hey everyone,

It’s been an absolute eternity since I last booted up Minecraft, let alone touched any modded content. The last time I seriously played, the modding scene was back on version 1.12.x.

Back then, my workflow was pretty basic: I’d install Forge, manually hunt down ⁠mods (Curse Forge site was the best place if I’m not mistaken), drop them into the ⁠mods⁠ folder, tweak a few configs, and call it a day. I used to run customized setups with \~80 mods directly in the vanilla launcher by setting up separate version folders.

I’m looking to jump back into a modded playthrough, but the landscape seems to have completely changed with new loaders, third-party launchers, etc. I'd love some advice on getting back into it!

Essentially, I love having beautiful, believable world generation (like Biomes O' Plenty with custom terrain generator (don’t remember the name) and YUNG’s add-one) combined with high-tech buildable mechanics, grounded creatures, rich cooking/decorations, and rewarding structure exploration & additional dimensions without feeling too over-the-top or detached from Minecraft's core identity.

With all that said I got a couple of questions:

1. What is the current sweet spot version and mod loader/launcher?
2. Should I stick to building a custom instance via a launcher, or should I lookup some mod packs (never played any, always created my own setup, but I’m open to anything)?
3. What are the essential modern QoL and performance mods everyone considers mandatory these days?

Appreciate any tips, modpack recommendations, or guides you can share!

https://redd.it/1x8yvgc
@MinecraftModded