Mods & Tools Overview

This is the hub for picking the right tools before you dive into specific mod lists. It explains what each manager does, how to judge compatibility, and which QoL picks are safest to install first.

What this page covers (and what it doesn’t)

• Covers: managers, load-order basics, dependency checks, and a small vetted QoL sampler.

• Doesn’t: exhaustive mod lists (see Modding & Best Mods) or deep troubleshooting (see Modding & Tooling Starter).

Mod manager roundup

• Bannerlord launcher: lightweight; best for 3–5 mods.

• Vortex: profile support, rules for load order, easy disables; learn where it deploys files.

• Manual installs: only for quick experiments or hotfixes—document every file you drop.

• Keep a vanilla profile and a modded profile. If a patch hits, switch to vanilla, then rebuild safely.

Compatibility & versions

• Lock your game branch to the version your mods target; read Patch Notes & Version Differences before updating.

• Load order template: Harmony → ButterLib → UIExtenderEx → Mod Configuration Menu → UI/QoL → content.

• Achievements: frameworks + QoL are usually fine; script-heavy cheats are not. Test on a throwaway save.

• Conflicts: if two mods touch the same XML, prefer the one updated most recently; check comments on official sources.

Must-have starter QoL set

• Frameworks: Harmony, ButterLib, UIExtenderEx, Mod Configuration Menu (required by most UI mods).

• Performance helpers: pair with Performance & Stability Tips and Performance & Optimization.

• UI clarity: unit sorting, encyclopedia filters, clearer perk tooltips.

• Navigation assists: terrain preview, party overlays; align with Controls & UI Setup.

• For categories like visuals or overhauls, jump to Modding Basics and Wiki Navigation Hub.

Safety nets before adding more

• Back up saves and configs; keep a simple text log of mod versions and dates.

• After any update, boot with frameworks only, then re-enable QoL in batches of 2–3.

• If you hit crashes, compare against the vanilla profile and use Cheats & Console Commands only on test saves.

• For manager-specific steps and sample load orders, head to Modding & Tooling Starter.

Quick next steps

• New player? Read the Beginner's Guide first.

• Need performance headroom? See Performance and Graphics Settings.

• Ready for curated picks? Open Modding & Best Mods.