Cost

How much does video game modding cost?

$70 buys all 2 essentials.

2 priced items · checked 10 Sept 2026 · retailer prices, we earn a commission

Everything essential, cheapest sensible pick

$70

2 items, nothing rented

Against 247 hobbies

Below median

Cheaper than 60% of them. Median hobby: $84.

What each thing costs

Every essential item, cheapest sensible option first. Mid-range and top picks alongside.

Game Modding Software essential

$50

Texture Editing Software essential

top $60

$20

All 2 essentials

$70

What you need

$70

Everything you need to start video game modding. None of it is a big commitment.

Game Modding Software

Game Modding Software

$50

These are the foundational programs used to access, edit, and repackage game files, allowing you to alter textures, models, scripts, and more. Having the right software is non-negotiable for any modding endeavor.

Advanced Game Script Editor

Texture Editing Software

Texture Editing Software

$20

Essential for altering the visual appearance of in-game assets, these tools let you change colors, add details, or even create entirely new visual styles for characters and environments.

Professional Raster Graphics Editor

top $60

Later, if you stay

Not needed to start. These are the upgrades that matter once the habit has stuck.

3D Model Editing Software

3D Model Editing Software

$300

If you plan to change the shape or appearance of in-game objects, characters, or environments, these tools are crucial for importing, editing, and exporting 3D models.

High-Poly Sculpting Workstation

Audio Editing Software

Audio Editing Software

$200

Modify in-game sound effects, music, or voice lines to enhance immersion or add new audio experiences to your mod.

Professional Audio Post-Production Suite

Startup cost · all 247 hobbieslog scale
$1
$84
$1245
$70

Video Game Modding costs more to start than 40% of the 247 hobbies we price. The median is $84.

Cost questions

How much does Video Game Modding cost to start?

About $70 for the 2 essential items, taking the cheapest sensible option for each.

What does each thing cost for Video Game Modding?

Game Modding Software: from $50. Texture Editing Software: from $20.

Is Video Game Modding an expensive hobby?

Video Game Modding costs about $70 to start, dearer than 40% of the 247 hobbies we price. The median hobby costs $84, so this sits around the middle.

What should I buy first for Video Game Modding?

game modding software, texture editing software — $70 together. They are the cheap half of the kit and the half you keep whatever you decide about the rest.

Hobbies that cost about the same

The 6 nearest to video game modding by startup cost, out of 247.