The Complete Starsector Modding Guide
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Welcome, Captain! If you’re here, you’re ready to take your Starsector experience to the next level. This complete modding guide will walk you through everything — from downloading and installing your first mod to advanced tweaks, troubleshooting, and even creating your own.
Whether you’re chasing massive faction wars, new ship designs, or total gameplay overhauls, this is your all-in-one hub for modding Starsector safely and effectively.
Understanding Starsector Mods
Before installing anything, it’s important to understand what mods are and how they interact with Starsector.
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1. What is a Mod?
A mod (short for “modification”) is a package of files that changes, adds, or improves features in Starsector. Mods can:
Add new ships, weapons, and factions
Change graphics and effects
Introduce new gameplay mechanics
Overhaul economy, diplomacy, and exploration
Types of Mods:
Content Mods — Add ships, factions, star systems, and weapons (e.g., Nexerelin, Ship/Weapon Packs).
Utility Mods — Provide tools or libraries needed for other mods (e.g., LazyLib, MagicLib, GraphicsLib).
Gameplay Overhauls — Major changes to core game mechanics (e.g., Nexerelin).
Quality of Life (QoL) Mods — Improve the user interface or performance without changing core gameplay.
2. Preparing Your Game for Mods
Before installing mods, you must make sure Starsector is ready.
A. Check Your Game Version
Always confirm your Starsector version matches the mod’s required version.
Many mods are updated after new Starsector patches, so mismatched versions can cause crashes.
B. Install Java (if needed)
Starsector uses Java to run. Some mods require Java 8 specifically.
If your game crashes after mod installation, switching Java versions often fixes it.
C. Increase Memory Allocation (For Heavy Modding)
Open
starsector/starsector.vmparamsin a text editor.Increase
-Xms(minimum RAM) and-Xmx(maximum RAM) values — e.g.,-Xmx4096mfor 4GB RAM.
3. Where to Find Mods
[Your Mods Library] — The fastest way to browse, with images, descriptions, and direct download links.
Starsector Forum Mod Index — Official modding hub.
NexusMods — Popular for larger mod projects.
GitHub — Many developers host updated mod builds here.
4. How to Install Starsector Mods
Step-by-Step Installation:
Download the Mod
Get the
.zipor.rarfile from a trusted source.
Extract the Mod Folder
Use WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract the files.
Place in Mods Directory
Move the extracted folder into:
Starsector/mods
Activate the Mod
Open the Starsector launcher → Click Mods → Tick the checkbox → Launch the game.
Pro Tip: Keep a backup of unmodded Starsector in case you want to reset.
5. Updating Mods Safely
Always read the mod’s update notes before replacing files.
Backup your save — Some updates break old saves.
If unsure, keep the older version in a separate folder.
6. Preventing Mod Conflicts
Conflicts happen when two mods change the same game files.
How to Avoid Them:
Read compatibility notes in the mod’s description.
Use “Version Checker” mod to monitor updates.
Avoid running multiple overhaul mods unless confirmed compatible.
7. Recommended Starter Mods
If you’re new to Starsector modding, start with these essentials:
LazyLib — Required by many mods.
MagicLib — Adds scripting functions for other mods.
GraphicsLib — Enhances visuals and special effects.
Nexerelin — Massive expansion with faction diplomacy and invasions.
Ship/Weapon Pack — Adds balanced, lore-friendly ships and weapons.
8. Advanced Modding Tips
Editing Configuration Files:
Many mods have
.jsonor.settingsfiles for customization.Example: Adjusting fleet size, economy settings, or ship prices.
Combining Mods:
Group similar mod types for thematic playthroughs (e.g., “Realism Pack,” “Overhaul Campaign”).
Creating Your Own Mod:
Use existing mods as learning examples.
The official modding API is available on the forums.
9. Troubleshooting Common Problems
Game Won’t Start After Installing Mods:
Likely wrong mod version or missing dependency.
Save Fails to Load:
Mod removed after save creation. Restore missing mod to fix.
Performance Lag:
Too many active factions or large battles. Lower settings or disable some mods.
10. Video & Community Resources
YouTube Tutorials — Search for “Starsector modding guide.”
Official Forums — Best for direct help from mod creators.
Discord Servers — Instant help from experienced players.
Captain’s Closing Notes
Modding Starsector can transform the game into a completely new experience. Take your time to explore, experiment, and customize — and remember, the best captain is one who knows their mods inside out. Bookmark this page and check back for new tutorials and updated recommendations.