Complete tModLoader Guide

Everything you need to know about using and modding with tModLoader

Table of Contents

1. Getting Started

First Launch

When you first launch tModLoader, it will create the necessary folders and files. The first launch may take longer than usual as it sets up the modding environment. You'll see a setup screen where you can configure basic settings.

Understanding the Interface

The tModLoader interface is similar to vanilla Terraria, with additional menus for mod management:

  • Mod Browser: Access the in-game mod browser to search and install mods
  • Mods Menu: Enable/disable installed mods and manage mod settings
  • Workshop: Access Steam Workshop integration (if available)

2. Installing Mods

Method 1: Mod Browser (Recommended)

  1. Launch tModLoader
  2. Click on "Mod Browser" from the main menu
  3. Browse or search for mods using the search bar
  4. Click "Download" on any mod you want to install
  5. The mod will automatically download and be ready to use

Method 2: Manual Installation

  1. Download the mod file (.tmod) from the mod repository
  2. Navigate to your tModLoader Mods folder (usually in Documents/My Games/Terraria/ModLoader/Mods)
  3. Place the .tmod file in the Mods folder
  4. Launch tModLoader and enable the mod from the Mods menu

Note: Always check mod compatibility and dependencies before installing. Some mods require other mods to function properly.

3. Managing Mods

Enabling and Disabling Mods

To manage your mods, go to the "Mods" menu from the main screen. Here you can:

  • Enable or disable mods by toggling the checkbox
  • View mod information and version numbers
  • Check for mod updates
  • Configure mod settings (if available)

Mod Load Order

Some mods need to load in a specific order. tModLoader automatically handles most dependencies, but you can manually adjust load order if needed. Mods at the top of the list load first.

Updating Mods

Keep your mods updated for the best experience. The Mod Browser will show available updates, and you can update mods with a single click. Always backup your worlds before updating mods.

4. Creating Your Own Mods

Prerequisites

  • Basic knowledge of C# programming
  • Visual Studio or Visual Studio Code
  • tModLoader installed and working
  • Familiarity with Terraria's game mechanics

Setting Up the Development Environment

  1. Download the tModLoader source code from GitHub
  2. Set up your development environment using the official documentation
  3. Create a new mod project using the mod template
  4. Start coding your mod using the tModLoader API

Resources for Mod Developers

5. Multiplayer Setup

Playing with Friends

To play multiplayer with mods, all players must have the exact same mods installed and enabled. Here's how to set it up:

  1. All players install tModLoader
  2. All players install the same mods in the same versions
  3. All players enable the same mods
  4. Host creates a server with mods enabled
  5. Other players join using the server IP or Steam invite

Tip: Use mod packs or share your mod list to ensure everyone has the same setup. Mod mismatches will prevent connection.

6. Best Practices

Performance Tips

  • Don't install too many mods at once - this can cause performance issues
  • Disable mods you're not actively using
  • Keep mods updated to the latest versions
  • Check mod compatibility before installing large mod packs

Backup Your Worlds

Always backup your worlds and characters before installing new mods or updating existing ones. Mod updates can sometimes cause compatibility issues with existing saves.

Reading Mod Descriptions

Before installing any mod, read its description carefully. Check for:

  • Required dependencies
  • Known compatibility issues
  • Mod version and last update date
  • User reviews and ratings