Maker & Engineering
Video Game Modding
Modify video games to alter gameplay or visuals.
Reviewed May 18, 2026
Social
Solo
Where
At home
Depth
Gradual mastery
Sessions
1–3 hr sessions
Physical
Sedentary
Learning
Steep curve
Starter cost
~$20 to start
Portable
Is this for you?
You'll enjoy this if
- You like spending hours figuring out complex systems.
- You happily dig through files to change small details.
- You love making something exactly how you want it.
Not for you if
- You get frustrated easily when things break.
- You prefer just playing games without tinkering.
- You'd rather not deal with technical problems.
Tends to suit:The Builder
Learning path
First mod
1
Choose a moddable game
Games with strong modding communities (Skyrim, Minecraft, Stardew Valley, Factorio, Cities: Skylines) have extensive documentation and tutorials. The toolset determines what is possible.
2
Install and use the community mod manager
Nexus Mod Manager, Vortex, or game-specific tools (CurseForge for Minecraft). Managing installed mods and understanding load order prevents conflicts.
3
Modify a simple asset
Reskin a texture, change a sound file, or edit a text value (item stats, prices). Asset modifications require no scripting and produce immediately visible results.
Professional and community
Release a polished, well-documented mod
Version history, compatibility notes, installation instructions, and a FAQ. A professional mod release treats the user as a customer.
Use modding as a portfolio piece
A well-made mod demonstrates programming, design, and creative skills to game studios. Several studios began as mod teams.
Learn it faster
Take a beginner Video Game Modding course
A structured course is the fastest way past the awkward beginner stage. Browse highly-rated video game modding classes for beginners.
What you'll need
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Frequently asked questions
What is Video Game Modding?
Modify video games to alter gameplay or visuals.
How much does Video Game Modding cost to start?
Our curated Tier 1 gear picks for Video Game Modding total about $20 USD before tax and shipping. Real spend varies by brand and what you already own—open the Tools & gear tab on this profile for itemized picks.
Is Video Game Modding good for beginners?
It depends on your taste for the tradeoffs on this page. One editor “pro” signal: You like spending hours figuring out complex systems. Pair that with the “Not for you if…” list before you buy serious gear.
How do I get started with Video Game Modding on HobbyStack?
Skim the fit check on this Overview, then open the Guides tab on this profile for articles when available. Use the Path tab to track milestones and the Tools & gear tab for starter picks (create a free account to save progress).
What gear do I need for Video Game Modding?
When a tools page is enabled for Video Game Modding, you will see recommended picks on the Tools & gear tab. Until then, use the Path milestones and any linked resources for purchase hints.
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Your path
Checkpoints & milestones
5 stages · 18 milestones
Track your progress with Video Game Modding
Tick off milestones as you go — from first session to confident practitioner. Progress saves to your account so you can pick up where you left off.
Choose a moddable game
Games with strong modding communities (Skyrim, Minecraft, Stardew Valley, Factorio, Cities: Skylines) have extensive documentation and tutorials. The toolset determines what is possible.
Install and use the community mod manager
Nexus Mod Manager, Vortex, or game-specific tools (CurseForge for Minecraft). Managing installed mods and understanding load order prevents conflicts.
Modify a simple asset
Reskin a texture, change a sound file, or edit a text value (item stats, prices). Asset modifications require no scripting and produce immediately visible results.
Browse coursesJoin the modding community
r/skyrimmods, r/feedthebeast, and game-specific Discord servers have all the documentation, tutorials, and troubleshooting you will need.
Find a community
Beginner essentials
~$20
Core gear to get going. Estimates from curated picks; actual spend varies.
Intermediate
+~$0
Nice-to-have upgrades once you know you are sticking with it.
Links open Amazon with your affiliate tag. Prices are ballpark catalog values.
Shop starter kits on Amazon