If you’re into modding games like Risk of Rain 2, you’ve probably heard of R2ModMan. It’s one of the most popular and reliable mod managers available, designed to simplify the process of downloading, installing, and managing game mods. Instead of manually copying files into game folders, R2ModMan does everything automatically, saving you time and reducing the risk of crashes or broken mods.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about R2ModMan – what it is, its key features, the games it supports, how to install it, and answers to common questions.
What is R2ModMan?
R2ModMan is an open-source mod manager developed for games that use BepInEx, a plugin framework that allows mods to run seamlessly. Originally created for Risk of Rain 2, it has since expanded to support multiple other games.
With R2ModMan, you don’t need to worry about manually handling mod files, dependencies, or updates. The tool is directly integrated with Thunderstore.io, the largest mod repository for Risk of Rain 2 and other games, allowing players to browse and install mods with a single click.
In short, R2ModMan makes modding:
- Fast – no manual setup required
- Safe – handles conflicts and dependencies automatically
- Flexible – supports multiple profiles and different games
Features of R2ModMan
R2ModMan is packed with useful features that make it the go-to choice for modding. Here are the highlights:
- One-Click Mod Installation
- Directly connected to Thunderstore, allowing you to install mods instantly.
- Automatic Updates
- Keeps all your mods up-to-date without requiring manual downloads.
- Profile Management
- Create multiple profiles with different sets of mods. Perfect for switching between vanilla play and modded gameplay.
- Dependency Management
- Automatically installs required dependencies for mods, so you never run into missing files.
- Error and Conflict Handling
- Alerts you to mod conflicts and prevents crashes by managing load order.
- Cross-Game Support
- Works with Risk of Rain 2, Dyson Sphere Program, and many other BepInEx-supported games.
- User-Friendly Interface
- Clean, intuitive design that makes it easy for beginners to use.
Supported Games
While R2ModMan was first developed for Risk of Rain 2, it now supports a growing list of games. Some of the most popular titles include:
- Risk of Rain 2
- Dyson Sphere Program
- Valheim
- Outward
- GTFO
- Talespire
- Rogue Tower
- 20 Minutes Till Dawn
- And more (any game compatible with BepInEx framework)
This broad compatibility makes R2ModMan a must-have tool for gamers who enjoy customizing and enhancing their gaming experience.
How to Install R2ModMan (Step-by-Step Guide)
Installing R2ModMan is simple. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Download R2ModMan
- Go to the Thunderstore R2ModMan page and download the installer for your system.
- It’s available for Windows, Linux, and via .NET Core.
- Install the Application
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Select Your Game
- Open R2ModMan and choose the game you want to manage (e.g., Risk of Rain 2).
- Create a Profile
- Set up a new profile to manage your mods. You can have multiple profiles for different setups.
- Browse and Install Mods
- Use the built-in Thunderstore browser to search for mods.
- Click Install and R2ModMan will handle dependencies automatically.
- Launch Your Game
- Once your mods are installed, click “Start Modded” in R2ModMan to launch your game with the selected mods.
That’s it – your mods are ready to use!
FAQs about R2ModMan
Q1: Is R2ModMan safe to use?
Yes, R2ModMan is open-source and widely trusted by the gaming community. It only installs mods directly from Thunderstore, a reputable mod repository.
Q2: Do I need to install BepInEx separately?
No. R2ModMan automatically installs BepInEx when required for your selected game.
Q3: Can I use R2ModMan on Linux?
Yes. R2ModMan works on Linux through .NET Core.
Q4: Will R2ModMan affect online multiplayer?
Some mods may not be allowed in multiplayer. Always check the game’s modding rules and only use mods that are compatible with online play.
Q5: Can I have multiple mod setups?
Yes, the profile system allows you to create different setups for various playstyles or mods.
Q6: Does R2ModMan work with non-Steam versions of games?
Yes, as long as the game is supported and you can point R2ModMan to the correct installation directory.
Final Thoughts
R2ModMan is one of the best tools available for gamers who want to enjoy mods without the hassle of manual installation. Its ease of use, cross-game compatibility, and automatic mod management make it a must-have for Risk of Rain 2 players and beyond.