MO2

Mod Organizer 2 (MO2) is a free mod management tool designed for PC games, most notably Bethesda titles such as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout 4. It helps users install, organize, and test mods while maintaining a clean, non-destructive game folder.

MO2 uses a virtual file system to install mods in a separate directory and presents them to the game as if they were in the actual data folder, allowing easy enabling, disabling, and reordering. It supports multiple profiles, each with its own mod list and load order, enabling different playthrough setups. Mods can be installed through the interface, with support for archive files; it tracks plugin dependencies (.esp/.esm) and handles overwrites. It integrates with LOOT to sort load orders automatically. It can launch the game from within MO2, applying the active profile’s VFS. A portable mode is available for users who want to run MO2 from a USB drive or without a full installation.

Usage and workflow: Users create profiles for different mod configurations, install mods into MO2, and toggle them on or off as needed. The VFS and per-mod overrides prevent permanent changes to the base game, facilitating testing and clean uninstalls. MO2 is commonly used in conjunction with other tools such as LOOT for management and patching, and can work alongside utilities like Wrye Bash.

Development and impact: MO2 is the successor to the original Mod Organizer and is maintained by a community of contributors. It has become a standard tool in the Windows PC modding community for Bethesda games, praised for non-destructive installation, flexibility, and robust profile management.