Mods are a great way to spice up games. They can add new content, better graphics, or completely change how a game plays. If you use the Epic Games Store, you might have seen their mod support too. But can you use those mods for games that you didn’t buy from Epic?
TL;DR:
If a mod was made specifically for a game on the Epic Games Store, it usually only works with that Epic version of the game. Epic sometimes has unique modding tools or file paths. You might be able to move mods around, but it’s hit-or-miss. For best results, get mods made for your game’s platform: Steam, Epic, or others.
How Epic Games Handles Mods
Epic Games supports mods in a pretty cool way. They let developers enable mod support directly through the Epic Games Launcher. For example, games like MechWarrior 5 and PC Building Simulator have a “Mods” tab.
These mods are hosted on Epic’s own platform. They go through a check to make sure they play nice with the Epic version of the game. So the system is designed for ease and safety.
Can Those Mods Work on Non-Epic Versions?
Here’s the short answer: not always. Mods from Epic Games are often designed specifically for the version of the game that runs through the Epic Launcher. If you have the same game on Steam or GOG, there may be some issues.
Here’s why:
- Different directory structures – The Epic version of a game may store files in a different way.
- Mod loader compatibility – Some mods require loaders or tools built only for Epic’s system.
- DRM or file checks – Epic games might use different protections that affect mod behavior.
That means taking an Epic mod and dropping it into your Steam game’s folder won’t always work. You may see crashes, missing files, or the game just pretending the mod doesn’t exist.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes, sometimes it can work. Especially if the mod is a simple texture swap or game file tweak. Here’s when you might have better luck:
- The mod doesn’t use Epic-specific tools.
- The game version is the same across all platforms.
- You know where to place the mod files correctly.
For example, if both the Steam and Epic versions use the same folder structure, your chances go up. Games like Skyrim or ARK: Survival Evolved may work more broadly since they already have large modding communities outside any one store.
How to Check If a Mod Will Work?
Before diving in, do a little research.
- Read the mod description – It often says which version or platform it was tested on.
- Check mod websites and forums – Places like Nexus Mods or Reddit can give useful tips.
- Look for cross-platform mods – Some creators make their mods friendly for both Epic and Steam.
Remember: Modding isn’t always plug-and-play. Even mods from the Epic “Mods” tab may need extra steps. Make sure you back up your game files first!
What Makes Epic Mods Unique?
Mods that go through the Epic Games Launcher often follow a special format. This helps the launcher install and manage them easily. Here are a few things that stand out:
- Automated install – You click, and the mod is added to the game without moving files.
- Used with a launcher backend – Some games only load mods if launched through the Epic client.
- May update with the game – Mod compatibility might break after updates, needing fresh downloads.
That means even if you grabbed the mod files from an Epic game’s folder, they might not behave the same outside that “ecosystem.”
Are There Tools to Convert Mods?
Not exactly. There aren’t official tools to convert Epic mods into formats for non-Epic games. But the modding community is creative! Some fans write guides or provide re-packaged mods that work across platforms.
Some helpful tools include:
- Universal mod loaders
- Community patchers
- Manual install guides
Just be careful. Download mods from trusted sources, and always scan for viruses. The more manual a mod install is, the higher the chance of user error.
Better Option: Use Mods from General Sources
Epic’s mods are handy, but they’re not the only way. Websites like:
…host thousands of mods for all platforms. Many aren’t tied to Epic at all. These mods usually come with .zip folders, README files, and instructions for install paths that work for both Steam and Epic games.
Tips for Safer Modding
If you want to explore mods across platforms, keep these tips in mind:
- Backup game files before modding
- Only download from trusted sites
- Follow instructions exactly
- Use a mod manager when possible
Many popular games have community-made tools like Vortex or Mod Organizer 2. These tools help manage mods, load order, and conflicts — across multiple store versions of the game.
Conclusion: Play Where You Mod
So, can you use Epic Games mods for non-Epic games? Usually not directly. Epic mods are often designed for the Epic version of the game and may rely on special tools or folder paths.
If you want to mod a non-Epic game, it’s best to find mods created specifically for that platform. Look on public modding sites, check if the file structures are compatible, and always test carefully.
Modding is meant to be fun — a way to add your flavor to a game. But to avoid frustration, make sure the mods you’re using are built for the version of the game you’ve got.
Now go forth, brave modder! But don’t blame the game if a mod from one store doesn’t play nice with another. Happy tweaking!