1. SMAPI
Download the latest version of SMAPI (and ensure it is the correct version for your system, whether PC/MAC/GOG/Steam etc,). This is the program that runs everytime you start up SDV, and runs the mods. It will bring up a console window that lets you know if mods are crashing, need updating or are running ok. 2. Content Patcher Download the Content Patcher folder, and once unzipped, add that folder into the Mods folder in SDV. This allows the newest type of mods to run via SMAPI. A lot of older mods were done by replacing the direct XNB files within the original game files, whereas CP mods overlay the original game assets without deleting or affecting them. This means it's much safer, quicker and easier to change things by adding or removing a CP mod folder to or from the Mods folder, than it is to make changes to direct XNB files and potentially lose the originals. 3. XNBcli (optional) A program for unpacking and repacking xnb files for those who want to insert images directly into the games files. This overwrites the originals so backup the original files first. This is particularly relevant for Mac OS users as images with semi-transparency may not load correctly when added via a content patcher mod. The semi-transparency issue should be solved in SMAPI 2.8 Beta.4 (paired with SDV 1.3.29 Beta), but if you are still on the previous SDV 1.3, editing XNBs directly is the easiest way to avoid the issue. If there are issues running XNBcli, try the following: 4. Helpful reference lists of the mechanical and visual mods and their compatibility with current SDV versions. |