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Cyberpunk 2077 is by far the most definitive and most vivid execution of a cyberpunk world in a video game. It also helps that it’s a fully-fledged RPG. That doesn’t mean you and the player community can’t improve upon its foundation even more, thanks to modding. That’s why we’ll be teaching you how to mod Cyberpunk 2077.
Modding allows you to tweak and personalize the game to your liking (to a certain extent), from graphics enhancements to gameplay changes. Take our robotic silver hand as we walk you through the process of how to mod Cyberpunk 2077 step by step so that you can enjoy the game like never before.
1. Find the mods you want
To begin your modding journey, the first step is to find the mods you want to add to your Cyberpunk 2077 experience. The go-to platform for Cyberpunk 2077 mods is Nexus Mods.
Before you start downloading, create an account on Nexus Mods; this will make managing your mods easier. Certain download limits will also be removed for downloads using accounts.
Once registered, browse the aforementioned Nexus Mods website for Cyberpunk 2077 and locate the mod you wish to install.
2. Download the mod
On the mod’s page, look for the “Manual Download” button and click on it. This action will initiate the download of the mod file. These mods are typically compressed into zip files, so you’ll need an unarchiving tool to proceed, so make sure you have software like 7zip, WinZip, or WinRAR installed on your system.
Note that you can also download the Mod Manager version of the mod, and this will allow you to semi-automate the mod installation processes, but the catch is that you need to install the Vortex Mod Manager program on your PC. This might not be preferable for all people, even though it’s easier and faster to install and update mods this way.
3. Unzip the mod file
After downloading the mod file manually, locate it on your computer and unzip its folder. You should typically choose to save it in a location that you can easily access, such as your desktop or downloads folder. This unzipped folder contains all the necessary files and assets for the mod.
4. Locate your Cyberpunk 2077 files
The next step varies slightly depending on whether you own Cyberpunk 2077 on Steam or GOG.
For Steam Users:
- Open your Steam library.
- Locate “Cyberpunk 2077” in your game library.
- Right-click on the game name.
- Select “Properties.”
- In the properties window, click on the “Local Files” tab.
- Choose “Browse Local Files.”
For GOG Users:
- Open your GOG Galaxy library.
- Find the Cyberpunk 2077 game page in your library.
- Click on the “Settings” button (located to the right of the play button).
- Select “Manage Installation” and then “Configure.”
This will bring you to the game’s files and folders, including the game launcher and directories like “archive” and “r6.” This is where you’ll need to put the mod files, usually.
However, it’s important to note that each mod might have different and more specific instructions.
5. Follow mod installation instructions
Before proceeding further, it’s crucial to read the mod’s installation instructions provided in the Description section of the mod’s download page.
Different mods may require you to place the mod folder in specific game directories. For example, a cosmetic mod might ask you to paste the mod folder into “Archive.” If the required folders do not exist, you may need to create them.
Thankfully, most modders on Nexus Mods are friendly and will leave instructions.
6. Back-up game files
Always prioritize the safety of your game files. Before making any changes, back up the folders and files that the mod page instructs you to overwrite—assuming it will overwrite anything.
This precautionary step ensures that you can easily revert to the original game state if anything goes wrong during installation or if the game gets an update that breaks the mod.
7. Paste the mod files
Now that you’ve read the installation instructions and safeguarded your game files, it’s time to proceed with the mod’s installation. Locate the mod folder you unzipped earlier and paste its contents into the appropriate game directory based on the mod’s instructions.
8. Verify the mod’s functionality
With the mod files successfully integrated into the game directories, it’s time to check if everything is working as intended. Launch Cyberpunk 2077, and if the mod is compatible and correctly installed, you should see the changes or enhancements in the game.
Some mods might have additional in-game instructions that you might need to follow further; be sure to double-check the mod Description page on Nexus Mods, just in case.
Modding Cyberpunk 2077 can take your gaming experience to the next level, allowing you to tailor the game to your preferences, especially now that Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is upon us.
By following this step-by-step guide on how to mod Cyberpunk 2077, you can confidently navigate the process of finding, downloading, and installing mods for the game, perhaps even creating some of them.
Do remember to exercise caution, back up your files, and always follow the specific installation instructions provided by mod creators. These mods are by no means official or wholly supported by the developers, and there’s always a risk of ruining your save file (though that’s a rare occurrence).
