How to install Baldur's Gate 3 mods

Baldur's Gate 3 has an in-game mod manager (mod.io) for mods published there, which is the simplest option. For Nexus mods and anything that needs the Script Extender, most players use BG3 Mod Manager. Don't mix both carelessly: keep track of where each mod came from.

Steps

1. Update the game and check ModSafe. After a big Larian patch, the Script Extender and many mods need updates. Wait for them first.
2. Back up your saves. Copy %LocalAppData%/Larian Studios/Baldur's Gate 3/PlayerProfiles somewhere safe.
3. Install BG3 Mod Manager. Download it from GitHub, run it, and let it detect your game and data folders.
4. Install the Script Extender. In BG3 Mod Manager use Tools › Download & Extract the Script Extender, or follow the instructions on its GitHub page.
5. Add framework mods. Drag the .zip or .pak files for Community Library, Mod Configuration Menu and Compatibility Framework into the manager, then move them to the active list.
6. Add your other mods. Put libraries and frameworks above the mods that need them. Each mod page lists its requirements.
7. Export the load order. Click Save and Export Order to Game. Launch the game as usual.
8. Use mod.io mods in game. In the main menu, open Mod Manager to browse, install and enable mods published on mod.io.

Common pitfalls

• Forgetting to export. Changes in BG3 Mod Manager only apply after Export Order to Game.
• Missing Script Extender after a patch. Mods that need it silently stop working until it updates.
• Mods in the wrong folder. .pak files go in the Mods folder under %LocalAppData%/Larian Studios/Baldur's Gate 3/Mods. Script Extender files go next to bg3.exe.
• Removing mods mid-save. Saves remember the mods that touched them. Removing a class, race or item mod can stop a save from loading.
• Multiplayer mismatch. Every player needs the same gameplay mods in the same order.

Rolling back

• Move a mod back to the inactive list in BG3 Mod Manager and export again, or disable it in the in-game Mod Manager.
• If a patch broke things, disable all mods, check the game launches clean, then re-enable a few at a time.
• Restore your PlayerProfiles backup if a save stops loading.
• Steam can't officially roll back the game, so wait for Script Extender and mod updates.