mod.io vs ModWorkshop

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.

ModWorkshop is a free community platform for sharing and downloading game modifications, with listings for 65 games. Its catalog includes PAYDAY 2, PAYDAY: The Heist, Noita, and Crime Boss. Visitors can browse game pages, news, forums, Discord links, and community comments, while dependency tracking helps relate required components. Downloading does not require an account, and the site says it does not artificially throttle download speeds. The API is available to anyone and currently supports GET requests only. Open-source, community-maintained mod managers, update tools, and downloaders may integrate through it; official integration into games or developers’ first-party tools is forbidden. Uploaded submissions must be open source, with repository links or source code required for compiled or obfuscated code. ModWorkshop began as The Team Mystery in 2012 and adopted its current name in 2016. It runs on the web and offers an API.