Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about R2ModMan usage, safety, supported games, and common setup questions.
What does R2ModMan do?
R2ModMan is a free mod manager that lets you install, update, remove, and organize mods for Unity-based Thunderstore games without manually editing game folders. It handles BepInEx paths, dependencies, profiles, and launching modded sessions.
Why should I use a mod manager?
Manual modding requires downloading archives, extracting files, and placing them in correct BepInEx directories. A mod manager automates those steps, tracks versions, resolves dependencies, and reduces broken installs or conflicting DLLs.
Is R2ModMan free?
Yes. It is completely free and open source. There is no paid tier for the manager itself.
What is the difference between R2ModMan and Thunderstore profile manager?
Both work with Thunderstore mods. R2ModMan is lightweight, ad-free, and fully open source. Thunderstore profile manager includes ads and is not open source. Feature sets overlap but R2ModMan emphasizes profile export codes and a streamlined UI.
Is this website official?
r2modman.software is an independent informational resource. It is not affiliated with ebkr, Thunderstore, or any game publisher. Software is created by ebkr under the MIT License.
Does R2ModMan require Steam?
No. R2ModMan works with Steam, Epic Games, and other platforms depending on the game. On Steam Deck, Flatpak builds support Desktop Mode. For Game Mode, add R2ModMan to your Steam library as a non-Steam game per platform guides.
How do I use R2ModMan on Linux?
Get build the AppImage or distro package, make it executable, run it, select your game, and create a profile. For Steam, paste the launch command from the Help tab into Launch Options. See our Linux install guide.
Which games are covered?
Full or strong support includes Risk of Rain 2, Valheim, Dyson Sphere Program, Lethal Company, R.E.P.O., GTFO, BONEWORKS, ULTRAKILL, Cult of the Lamb, Subnautica, and 100+ other Thunderstore-supported titles. Select your game on the home screen after launch.
Can I mod Red Dead Redemption 2 with R2ModMan?
No. RDR2 is not supported. R2ModMan targets Thunderstore and BepInEx Unity titles, not Rockstar mod frameworks.
Is R2ModMan safe to download and use?
Yes, from official sources. It is open source under the MIT License and keeps mods separate from base game files. Unofficial mirrors may bundle malware and cause false Trojan reports. See trust and security.
Is r2modman a Trojan or virus?
No. It is a legitimate open-source tool. Antivirus heuristics and fake download sites cause most confusion. Verify hashes and download only from the two developer-recognized official channels.
Is modding games safe?
Mods vary in quality and trust. Get build from reputable Thunderstore authors, read reviews, and avoid suspicious executables. The manager reduces install errors but cannot guarantee every community mod is harmless.
Can I play multiplayer with R2ModMan?
Yes, when the game supports modded multiplayer. Every player needs the same mods and versions. Export a profile code so friends can import your full mod and config list quickly.
Where does R2ModMan store mod files?
Imported mods are placed under BepInEx/plugins/ within the managed profile structure. Additional BepInEx folders such as config or sideloader paths are used when required by specific mods.