Continue is a popular open-source AI code assistant that integrates as an extension into VS Code and JetBrains IDEs. It supports MCP servers through a global config file at ~/.continue/config.json, using the same mcpServers root key and field names as Claude Desktop. MCP servers registered in Continue become available as tools in the AI chat sidebar, enabling the assistant to query databases, search the web, read files, and perform other actions during code review and generation sessions. The config is shared across all workspaces and both VS Code and JetBrains, so servers configured once are available everywhere Continue is installed. The getmcp CLI detects Continue by checking for the ~/.continue directory.
Quick Install with getmcp
The fastest way to install MCP servers in Continue is with the getmcp CLI:
▸Config file not found: Continue creates ~/.continue/config.json on first launch of the extension. Open your editor with Continue installed at least once before adding servers.
▸Server not appearing in Continue's tool list: Reload the editor window after editing config.json. In VS Code, use Cmd+Shift+P (macOS) or Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows/Linux) and run Developer: Reload Window.
▸MCP tools not triggering during chat: Continue must be configured to allow tool use. Check the Continue settings panel for the Allow Tools option and ensure it is enabled for your model provider.
▸Server process fails to start: Continue inherits the editor's PATH, which may differ from your shell's PATH. Specify absolute paths to node or python binaries in the command field if you encounter spawn errors.
