How do you install mods?
Most PC games install mods in one of three ways: subscribe in the Steam Workshop, use a mod manager such as Vortex (Nexus Mods) or the CurseForge app, or copy the mod's files into the game folder by hand. Which one applies depends on the game, so always start with the instructions on the mod's page.
Option 1: Steam Workshop
If the game supports the Workshop, this is the simplest route. Open the game's Workshop page in Steam, click Subscribe on a mod, and Steam downloads and updates it automatically. Some games also have an in-game mod menu where you enable subscribed mods.
Option 2: A mod manager
Mod managers handle load order, conflicts and uninstalling for you:
- Install the manager the community uses for your game (Vortex or Mod Organizer 2 for Bethesda games, the CurseForge app for Minecraft and others, r2modman for many Unity games).
- Point it at your game installation.
- Download mods through the manager's "mod manager download" button.
- Enable the mods and launch the game through the manager if the guide says so.
Option 3: Manual install
- Check that the mod matches your game version and note any required dependencies (script extenders, loaders, frameworks).
- Back up your saves and, if possible, the game folder.
- Extract the archive unless the mod page says otherwise. Some games (The Sims 4, for example) read certain files from a Mods folder in Documents; others need files in the game's install directory.
- Copy the files exactly where the readme says.
- Launch the game and test with a fresh or backup save.
Troubleshooting
- Mod doesn't show up: wrong folder, missing dependency, or mods disabled in the game's settings.
- Crashes after install: remove recently added mods one at a time; conflicts and outdated mods after a game patch are the usual causes.
- After a game update: many mods break until their authors update them.
FAQ
Are mods safe to download?
Mods from large, moderated sites such as Nexus Mods, CurseForge and the Steam Workshop are generally safe. Avoid random sites, mods that ship as .exe installers from unknown authors, and anything that asks you to disable antivirus.
Do mods cost money?
Most are free. Some games have official paid content created by modders, and some authors accept donations or offer early access through subscriptions.
Is it legal to install mods?
Single-player mods are generally allowed and many developers support them. Redistributing a game's paid assets or modding online games against their terms of service is a different matter.
Will I get banned for using mods?
In single-player games, almost never. In online and competitive games, mods that change gameplay or give an advantage can get your account banned, so check the game's rules first.
Can you get mods on iPhone?
Generally no for most games. iOS doesn't allow sideloading game files the way PC does; a few games have built-in mod or add-on support (Minecraft Bedrock has its Marketplace).
Can I mod console games?
Only games with official mod support, such as some Bethesda titles with Creations, allow mods on consoles.