ModTek vs Venice Unleashed

ModTek is a free mod loader for HBS’s BattleTech PC game. It loads mods at game startup when they use the mod.json format, allowing modders to package self-contained changes without overwriting game files. It resolves dependencies and controls load order without requiring edits to VersionManifest.csv. The project says newer versions include DLC support not present in BattleTech’s built-in 1.7 loader. It supports BattleTech installations from Steam and GOG on Windows, Linux, and macOS. Installation uses a downloadable ZIP extracted into the game’s installation folder; the instructions warn that the game should be outside Program Files because Windows UAC protection can interfere. Version 3 and later use UnityDoorstop to load ModTek without modifying game files. The repository documents JSON and DLL mods, advanced JSON merging, manifest manipulation, and HarmonyX support. The project is licensed under LGPL-2.1. Linux instructions describe a system-wide ASLR change as an obsolete, insecure workaround and provide an environment-variable fix instead.

Venice Unleashed is a free community modding and improvement framework for Battlefield 3. It supports gameplay adjustments, new game modes, and new maps, with a spectating system for filming or competitions. Players can host private dedicated servers on their own machines and configure 60Hz or 120Hz tickrates. Other settings include suppression tuning and disabling the blue tint. Using the framework requires a legitimate, licensed, up-to-date Battlefield 3 installation; servers running downloadable-content material also require that DLC. At first login, users create a VU account and link an Origin account for ownership verification. VU runs separately from vanilla Battlefield 3, uses its own servers, and does not modify game files. Profiles are separate from Battlelog, and progression does not carry over because everything is unlocked by default. The client targets Windows, while Linux dedicated servers can run through Wine.