Modding has become a vital part of the gaming experience, allowing players to enhance gameplay, add new features, or completely transform a game. For players of popular titles like Risk of Rain 2, Valheim, or Lethal Company, the Thunderstore Mod Manager (TMM) is one of the most reliable tools available. If you’re new to modding or just looking for the best way to manage mods safely, this guide will help you understand everything about the Thunderstore Mod Manager.
What is Thunderstore Mod Manager?
Thunderstore Mod Manager (TMM) is a free and open-source tool designed to make modding simple and safe. It is the official mod manager supported by the Thunderstore platform, which hosts mods for dozens of games. With TMM, players can install, update, and manage mods with just a few clicks, eliminating the hassle of manual downloads and file replacements.
Instead of manually editing game directories, TMM creates separate modded profiles, ensuring your base game files remain untouched. This makes modding much safer and allows you to switch between modded and vanilla versions of the game easily.
Key Features of Thunderstore Mod Manager
- One-Click Mod Installation
Browse the Thunderstore library and install mods instantly without manual setup. - Multiple Profiles
Create different profiles for different playstyles. For example, one profile can be heavily modded, while another can stay close to vanilla. - Automatic Updates
Mods can be updated automatically, ensuring compatibility with the latest game versions. - Safe & Non-Intrusive
TMM doesn’t overwrite your game files. Instead, it uses a patching system, making it safer than manual installations. - Cross-Game Support
While originally built for Risk of Rain 2, TMM now supports many games, including Valheim, Lethal Company, and Dyson Sphere Program. - Community-Driven
Because it’s open-source and community-supported, improvements and bug fixes are frequent.
How to Install Thunderstore Mod Manager
Installing TMM is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Download the Manager
Visit the official Thunderstore website and download the latest version of TMM. - Install the Application
Follow the setup instructions to install it on your PC. - Select Your Game
On launching TMM, select the game you want to mod. - Create a Profile
Make a new profile to keep your mods organized. - Browse and Install Mods
Use the built-in browser to search for mods and click “Install” to add them instantly. - Launch the Game
Once mods are installed, launch the game directly through TMM.
Is Thunderstore Mod Manager Safe?
Yes, Thunderstore Mod Manager is safe to use. Unlike some third-party modding tools, TMM is officially supported by the Thunderstore platform. Mods are uploaded by community developers, but the platform has checks in place to reduce risks of malware.
However, as with any modding tool, you should:
- Download only from trusted sources (like Thunderstore itself).
- Read mod descriptions and reviews before installing.
- Keep backups of your game saves.
Benefits of Using Thunderstore Mod Manager
- Ease of Use: No need for manual file extractions.
- Safety: Keeps your base game clean.
- Flexibility: Supports profiles and switching between modded/vanilla games.
- Community Support: Thousands of mods available for free.
For beginners, this manager provides a hassle-free way to get into modding. For experienced players, it offers advanced customization and better organization.
Drawbacks of Thunderstore Mod Manager
While TMM is a powerful tool, it’s not perfect. Some common drawbacks include:
- Game Compatibility Issues: Not all games are supported.
- Occasional Mod Conflicts: Some mods may not work well together.
- Learning Curve: New users may take time to understand profiles and load orders.
Still, the advantages heavily outweigh these minor inconveniences.
Alternatives to Thunderstore Mod Manager
If you want to explore other options, here are a few alternatives:
- r2modman—The original version of Thunderstore Mod Manager, still available.
- Vortex (Nexus Mods)—Popular for games like Skyrim and Fallout.
- Manual Installation—Best for advanced users who want complete control.
Thunderstore Mod Manager remains the most user-friendly choice for games supported by Thunderstore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thunderstore Mod Manager free?
Yes, TMM is completely free and open-source.
Can I use Thunderstore Mod Manager on Steam games?
Yes. Most Thunderstore-supported games, including Risk of Rain 2 and Valheim, work seamlessly with Steam.
Does using TMM risk getting banned?
In most single-player or co-op games, using TMM is safe. However, for games with strict anti-cheat systems, check the modding policy before using mods online.
Can I uninstall mods easily?
Yes. TMM allows you to uninstall mods with a single click, and your base game remains unaffected.
Which games are supported by Thunderstore Mod Manager?
Popular supported games include Risk of Rain 2, Valheim, Lethal Company, Dyson Sphere Program, and many more.
Conclusion
The Thunderstore Mod Manager is one of the best tools available for gamers who want to explore mods safely and efficiently. With its user-friendly interface, profile system, and wide game support, it has become a go-to choice for the modding community.
Whether you’re a beginner curious about adding quality-of-life features or an experienced player looking to overhaul your game with extensive mods, TMM makes the process smooth and secure. Just remember to download from trusted sources, manage profiles wisely, and keep your game backups safe.
If you’re ready to take your favorite games to the next level, Thunderstore Mod Manager is the perfect place to start.
