Mod

A mod is a modification or addition to a game's code, created by users not officially affiliated with the original game. Mods for visual novels might add a variety of features, such as additional stories, new characters, improvements or adjustments to content from the original game, or even performance improvements.

Mods should not be confused with downloadable content, which is produced or authorized by the creators of the original game.

Visual novel modding is a hobbyist activity that can involve a wide range of technical and creative skills. Some modders may specialize in particular areas, such as writing, artwork, programming, or music composition. Others may take a more generalist approach, contributing to multiple aspects of the mod's development.

Modding communities often form around popular visual novels such as Doki Doki Literature Club ^[VNDB] and Katawa Shoujo ^[VNDB], which have vibrant modding communities with a wide range of available mods.

Creation

Visual novel modding requires access to the game's source code, which is typically distributed by the original creators or obtained through reverse engineering. Modders can use this code as a starting point for their own creations, adjusting existing content and adding new features. This may involve creating new sprites, backgrounds, music, or dialogue, as well as modifying existing assets to fit the mod's vision. Modders can add new paths, endings, or even entire characters to the story.

In recent years, visual novel engines such as Ren'Py have made it easier for hobbyists to create their own games, fueling a boom in indie development. This has also led to an increase in the number of mods available for these platforms, with some developers using modding as a way to experiment with new ideas or test their skills before embarking on their own full-fledged projects.

Community

Modders may coordinate their efforts through social media or dedicated forums to produce large-scale mods that would be too challenging for an individual developer to create alone. Once progress is made, modders can share news about their projects and provide support to other developers. Mods are often distributed through dedicated fan sites or on digital distribution platforms such as itch.io.