Factorio Mods vs mod.io

Factorio Mods is the Mod Portal and in-game system for finding and managing mods for Factorio. The portal lets users search by title, internal name, summary, or username, then narrow results by categories and tags. Authors can upload mods, while users can access previous versions and discussion threads. In Factorio, the Mods menu handles downloading, installing, checking for updates, and enabling or disabling mods; it also obtains required dependencies.

When joining a modded multiplayer game, Factorio can download and enable the server's mods at their exact versions. Mods can change gameplay, for example by adding machines or informative GUIs. They are written in a modified version of Lua 5.2 and follow a required structure. The Mod Portal API supports browsing and downloading available mods, with basic endpoints that do not require authentication. Factorio runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and mods are distributed through the in-game manager. The listed plan is free. Uploading requires a licensed Factorio copy and a Factorio.com account; portal functionality requires a verified purchase.

mod.io is middleware for game studios adding mods and other user-generated content to games. Its features include cross-platform support, in-game UI, multiplayer support, marketplace, collections, metrics, dependencies, moderation, custom SSO, Cloud Cooking, an embedded hub, and a Discord bot. Studios can integrate with Unreal Engine or Unity plugins, a C++ SDK for custom builds, or a REST API. The SDK lists Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android support; documentation also lists PC storefronts, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Meta Quest as integration targets. Moderation options include automated scanning, rules-based moderation, optional approval, and user reporting. Uploaded files receive virus and malware checks, with validation checks for text and files. Image moderation does not currently use AI or machine learning to detect inappropriate content, though third-party tools can be connected through webhooks. Studios can enable premium UGC sales in virtual currency or USD and set creator revenue shares. Pricing is on request. Marketplace fees listed are $0.0012 per virtual currency and 5% plus $0.20 per transaction from the web payment partner.