Stepgate — Claude Code MCP server: steps and setup
Stepgate runs agents through YAML procedures and blocks progress until each result passes its checks. Use it when skipped steps or invented values matter.
claude mcp add stepgate -- npx -y stepgateWhat Stepgate does
Stepgate exposes a YAML stepfile as an MCP tool. The file defines inputs, allowed APIs and MCP servers, an ordered procedure, and the checks for each output. The agent receives one step at a time, while the server performs the required tool calls and opens the next step only after its gate passes.
Gates can use JSON Schema, JSONLogic, or an HTTP verifier. Stepgate can build outputs mechanically, attach credentials to its own calls, and keep a hash-linked record of steps, calls, verdicts, and retries. A human approval through MCP elicitation can be required before a later step writes the result.
You need an MCP client and Node.js 22.18 or later. Credentials come from the selected stepfile; the market-research example requires a Tavily API key. The client’s own model handles the reasoning.
What it helps with
- run an agent procedure in a fixed order
- validate outputs with JSON Schema or JSONLogic
- check a result against an external API response
- require human approval before a write
- record tool calls, verdicts, and retries
Example prompts for the agent
- Run
market-researchfor the brand Oatly in the UK plant-based milk market. - Write a YAML stepfile for this procedure and add output checks.
- Run the procedure step by step and request approval before writing the result.
How to install Stepgate
Platform CLI
claude mcp add stepgate -- npx -y stepgatePlatform CLI
codex mcp add server -- npx -y stepgateConfig file
{
"mcpServers": {
"server": {
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"stepgate"
]
}
}
}Config file
{
"servers": {
"server": {
"type": "stdio",
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"stepgate"
]
}
}
}Platform CLI
gemini mcp add server npx -y stepgateStep by step, with commands for each platform: How to add an MCP server to Claude Code, Codex, Cursor, VS Code, Gemini CLI and more
Questions about Stepgate
How do I install Stepgate in Claude Code?
Run claude mcp add stepgate -- npx -y stepgate.
What does Stepgate do?
It runs YAML procedures as MCP tools and reveals their steps one at a time. A later step becomes available only after its configured gate passes.
What does Stepgate require?
You need an MCP client and Node.js 22.18 or later. The stepfile supplies its credentials; the market-research example needs a Tavily API key.
