This article tackles the common frustration of mods breaking after a Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord update. We’ll explore practical methods for getting your favorite mods working again and offer insights into managing your mod setup effectively.
The release of a new Bannerlord patch can feel like a curse for mod users. Game updates often introduce changes to the game’s code, which can render existing mods incompatible. This is because mods frequently rely on specific game files or functionalities that are altered during the update. Think of it like building a house on a foundation that suddenly shifts – things start to crack and fall apart.
Why Mods Break: A Quick Explanation
- Code Changes: New game versions often introduce changes to core game files and functions, which can break the dependencies mods rely upon.
- API Updates: The Bannerlord API (Application Programming Interface), which mods use to interact with the game, might be updated, requiring mods to be rewritten or adjusted.
- Module Structure Changes: The way the game organizes its modules can be altered, causing mods to fail to load correctly.
Initial Steps After a Patch: Troubleshooting
Before diving into more complex solutions, try these basic troubleshooting steps:
- Check Mod Pages: The first thing you should always do is visit the mod’s page on the Nexus Mods website or wherever you downloaded it. Mod authors usually update their mods quickly or provide information about compatibility.
- Verify Game Files: Use Steam’s “Verify integrity of game files” feature. This can fix corrupted files that might be interfering with mod functionality. To do this, right-click on Bannerlord in your Steam library, go to “Properties,” then “Local Files,” and click “Verify integrity of game files.”
- Run Bannerlord Without Mods: See if the game runs correctly without any mods enabled. This helps you confirm whether the issue is indeed mod-related and not a problem with the game itself.
- Update Harmony: The Harmony mod is a crucial dependency for many Bannerlord mods. Make sure you’re using the latest version, as outdated Harmony can cause widespread compatibility issues.
Load order is critical for mod compatibility. Many mods depend on others, and incorrect ordering can lead to crashes and errors. Think of it as building a structure; you need the foundation before you can put on the roof.
Recommended Load Order Strategy
While the “perfect” load order can vary depending on your specific mod list, a generally effective order is:
- Harmony: This mod needs to load first, as it provides essential patching capabilities for other mods.
- ButterLib: Another foundational mod that provides common functionality for many mods.
- UIExtenderEx: Necessary for mods that modify the user interface.
- MCMv5: Mod Configuration Menu v5, allows for in-game configuration of many mods.
- Native Modules: These are the official game modules (e.g., SandboxCore, StoryMode).
- Community Patch (If installed): A community-maintained patch that fixes bugs and improves performance. Load after the native modules.
- Gameplay/Content Mods: Mods that add new features, troops, or change gameplay mechanics.
- Overhaul Mods: Mods that drastically change the game, like Calradia Expanded or Eagle Rising.
- Visual/Cosmetic Mods: Mods that change textures, models, or other visual aspects. These generally have the fewest conflicts and can be loaded last.
Using the Bannerlord Launcher for Load Order
The Bannerlord launcher allows you to easily manage your load order. Simply drag and drop the mods to rearrange them. Experiment and pay attention to any error messages you receive. The error message often tells you exactly which mod is causing the issue.
Mod authors are often quick to update their creations after a game patch. Keeping your mods up-to-date is essential for maintaining compatibility.
Tracking Mod Updates
- Nexus Mods: Regularly check the Nexus Mods website for updates to your installed mods.
- Discord Servers: Many mod authors have Discord servers where they announce updates and provide support.
- Steam Workshop: If you use mods from the Steam Workshop, they should update automatically, but it’s still a good idea to check occasionally.
Beta Branches and Experimental Versions
Sometimes, mod authors release beta versions or experimental builds that are compatible with the latest game patch. These versions may be unstable, but they can allow you to play with your favorite mods while waiting for a stable update. Be cautious with beta versions and back up your saves before using them.
If a mod hasn’t been updated, you might be able to fix it yourself by editing its XML files. This requires some technical knowledge, but it can be a worthwhile effort for critical mods.
Understanding ModuleInfo.xml
The ModuleInfo.xml file is a critical file that tells the game how to load a mod. After a patch, this file may need to be adjusted to reflect changes in the game’s module structure or API. Focus on the “Module ID” and “Version” fields.
Editing XML Files: Step-by-Step
- Locate the ModuleInfo.xml file: This file is usually located in the mod’s folder, within the “ModuleData” subfolder.
- Open the file with a text editor: Use a text editor like Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code.
- Check the “Module ID”: Ensure that the “Module ID” matches the mod’s folder name.
- Adjust the “Version”: The “Version” field might need to be updated to match the latest Bannerlord version. You can find the current game version in the Bannerlord launcher.
- Save the file: Save the changes and try launching the game.
Warning: Editing XML files incorrectly can break your game. Always back up the original file before making any changes.
Fortunately, the Bannerlord modding community has created tools to help manage mod compatibility.
Use Mod Managers
- Vortex: Vortex is a popular mod manager developed by Nexus Mods. It can help you install, manage, and sort your mods. It also provides conflict detection features to help you identify potential compatibility issues.
https://www.nexusmods.com/about/vortex/ - Bannerlord Mod Launcher: Another dedicated launcher that can help with load order and mod management.
Community Patches and Compatibility Mods
Search for community-made patches that address common compatibility issues. The Community Patch mod is a popular choice. These patches often fix bugs and improve performance while also enhancing compatibility between different mods.
Sometimes, the best solution is simply to be patient. It can take time for mod authors to update their mods, especially for larger and more complex projects.
Building a Stable Mod List
- Prioritize Essential Mods: Focus on mods that are essential to your gameplay experience.
- Choose Well-Maintained Mods: Opt for mods that are actively maintained and updated by their authors.
- Read Mod Descriptions Carefully: Pay attention to the mod author’s notes on compatibility and known issues.
When to Give Up (Temporarily)
If a mod is outdated, unsupported, and causing problems, it might be best to disable it until an update is available. It’s better to have a stable game with fewer mods than a broken game with all your favorite mods installed.
As a long-time Bannerlord player and mod enthusiast, I’ve learned a few things the hard way. One valuable lesson is the importance of documentation. Always read the mod descriptions and any accompanying documentation carefully. Many compatibility issues can be avoided simply by following the author’s instructions.
Another tip is to start small. Don’t install a massive number of mods all at once. Instead, add a few mods at a time and test them thoroughly. This makes it much easier to identify the culprit if something goes wrong.
I’ve also found that joining the modding community is incredibly helpful. The Bannerlord modding community is active and supportive. You can find help, advice, and updates on Discord servers and forums. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can save you a lot of time and frustration.
Finally, remember that modding is a process of experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different things and see what works. You might discover new mods or find creative ways to combine them. Just be sure to back up your saves and keep a record of the changes you make.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Game Crash on Startup | Incorrect Load Order, Incompatible Mods | Reorder mods in the launcher, disable recently added mods, check mod descriptions for compatibility notes |
| Missing Textures/Models | Outdated Mod, Corrupted Files | Update the mod, verify game files, reinstall the mod |
| Script Errors in Console | Code Conflicts, Outdated Dependencies | Update Harmony, ButterLib, and UIExtenderEx, disable conflicting mods |
| In-Game Freezes | Resource Intensive Mods, Memory Limitations | Reduce graphics settings, disable unnecessary mods, increase virtual memory |
| Mod Configuration Issues | Outdated MCMv5, Conflicting Settings | Update MCMv5, reset mod settings to default |
This table provides a quick reference for troubleshooting common compatibility issues. Remember that the specific solutions may vary depending on your mod list and game version.
Successfully navigating Bannerlord‘s modding scene after a patch requires patience, diligence, and a willingness to experiment. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can minimize compatibility issues and enjoy a customized and immersive Bannerlord experience.