CKAN vs Stardrop

CKAN helps Kerbal Space Program players find, install, and manage mods through a client connected to an online registry. Users can refresh the registry and search by mod name, identifier, author, or relationships. CKAN uses mod metadata to select mods for the game version, install dependencies, and identify conflicts or incompatibilities. By default, a mod must be marked compatible with the exact game version; users can choose additional compatible versions, and an All filter can display incompatible mods. The client provides graphical, console, and command-line interfaces. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with installation options for several Linux distributions. The executable can manage game installations from any folder; placing it in a game folder supports portable use. Mod authors can contribute or correct metadata. CKAN is open source and MIT-licensed, and is free. On macOS 10.15 and later, the console interface is the default because the graphical interface depends on a 32-bit WinForms application in Mono.

Stardrop is a free, open-source mod manager for Stardew Valley on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Built with Avalonia UI, it uses SMAPI to manage applicable mods and check for updates. Profiles keep separate mod groups for different gameplay or multiplayer sessions. Stardrop connects to the Nexus Mods API, including in-app mod endorsements, and offers built-in mod-source access and automatic updates. Downloading updates through Stardrop requires a premium Nexus Mods account. The manager uses copy-based deployment, and documentation says uninstalling it leaves SMAPI, Stardew Valley, and the original mod folder unaffected. Downloads are available from GitHub Releases and Nexus Mods; GitHub instructions direct users to choose the ZIP matching their operating system. GitBook covers installation, updates, and usage. The repository is licensed under GPL-3.0.