modding

Modding refers to the practice of altering a software program or video game by members of the user community to modify its content, rules, or presentation. Mods are typically created outside of the original developer’s project and shared on third‑party platforms. While most common in games, modding also applies to other software and hardware contexts.

Mods fall into several categories. Content mods add or replace in‑game assets such as characters, levels, or quests. Gameplay mods adjust mechanics, balance, or difficulty. Cosmetic mods change visual elements like textures or skins without affecting gameplay. Total conversions replace a game’s core experience with something substantially different. Tools such as editors, scripting languages, and mod loaders enable these changes.

Modding often relies on community documentation, modding tools provided by the community or official SDKs, and mod managers that organize installations and load orders. Common workflows involve creating or editing data files, textures, or scripts, testing for compatibility, and packaging mods for distribution.

Distributing mods involves license and copyright considerations. Some projects are open source or allow fan content, while others restrict modification. Users must be mindful of compatibility with game updates and other mods, and may face security risks from downloaded files.

Modding has extended the lifespan of many games by fostering communities, enabling experimentation, and supporting user-generated content. It can influence official development through community feedback and inspiration, though it may also raise issues with cheating, piracy, or stability in online environments. Hardware modding is a related practice focused on devices and peripherals.