What is a mod?
A “mod” is a changed set of game files that replace existing art with new art – giving your personal client a different look and feel. This changes the game appearance only for you – nobody else in the world will be able to see your changes. Depending on where the change is, one or more files may need to be updated. Typically, we just mod the art and gump files, but occasionally, the animations can be updated.
Why do people mod?
It makes the game easier to play. For example, I do a lot of sailing – the sail graphics get in the way. Also, I do a lot of Lumberjacking. By removing all the world clutter and only seeing the tree stumps, I know exactly where to gather resources. I also use my runebooks a lot and searching a cluttered pack for one is a real hassle – hence, the runebook graphic was made larger.
Can I mod myself?
Yes. For the most part it works fine, but there is a learning curve as well as special tools you need to do it. When starting out, it can be a headache. If you get stuck, PM me and I can answer questions. Gaechti’s web site has instructions on how to do this.
Can they break?
Definitely. A mod only lives as long as the art files it contains are accurate to the day you are running the game. Art files don’t update too often, so a set of mod files can live for 4-6 months or longer, if no updates are done. If the server admins add new art files, we need to get a new copy of those art files, re-apply the mod update, then you will be good to go. Failure to do this will result in all sorts of world anomalies and missing graphics.
What clients are supported?
Mods work with any client. Some clients even offer their own modding features, such as turning off trees in UO Classic. This is why I leave trees intact, so users can turn them off if they are using that client.
Is it legal?
Yes, Owyn and Luthius have given the green light on mods.
Installation
The installation steps are simple.
- Close your running instances of Ultima Online
- Download the game files from my web site shares.
- Replace the files in your game directory (typically C:\Program Files (x86)\UOO)
- Start your game by using your client .exe directly. Do not use the Outlands launcher.
Removal
- Close your running instances of Ultima Online
- Run the Outlands launcher, and patch. It will replace the modified files with their originals.