Mods (short for modification) are anything that changes certain aspects aspect of a video game. Mods may add new functions, fix bugs, add new models, change skins etc. Mods are usually developed by independent (usually amateur) programmers and designers who are not affiliated with the game developer.
Most modded games[]
Nearly every game in series has their own mod scene, however the PC ports of Pro Skater 3 and Underground 2 have the most prolific modding scenes, providing tons of small modifications and several global projects, which involves addition of new moves, maps or functions.
Mod types[]
Conversions[]
This mod changes original game textures to make it look different. This mod type relies mostly to THPS3, there is a lot of skinning mods for this game. Here goes HUD and board skins as well.
Script mods[]
Script mods allow the user to make various in-game changes to the games scripts. Examples of script changes including modifying level limits, adding new stuff, change game frontend, etc.
Launchers[]
This acts as a wrapper for the game executable file allowing user to change some options that weren't originally allowed to be changed in the game's default launcher. For instance, such launchers may allow to change game resolutions or key bindings. Depending on the way it was written it may fit the type listed below. In case of THPSHD there was no default launcher at all.
Exe patches[]
.Exe patches are mods that are applied to the executable file, which allows the game to launch. The most popular .exe patch is the OpenSpy online fix for every game from THPS4 to THAW on PC, which allows online play for those titles. .Exe patches require the user to replace the original executable file.
Level packs[]
As the name suggest, level packs add additional maps into the game. The best examples of level packs are LevelPack for THPS2 and LevelMod for THPS3.
Modding tools[]
Modding tools don't modify the game by themselves, but allow the user to make in game changes through the use of an in-game menu. Different types of mod tools include game data reader/converters, script editors, etc.
Sound mods[]
A rarer mod type, sound mods aim to replace certain in-game sound effects, such as menu sounds, special sounds, etc. A notable sound mod is the Realistic Sound FX for THPS3. Mods that change in-game soundtracks fall under this category as well.
Global mods[]
This type of mod may include several types listed above to provide better compatibility and stability or to create certain atmosphere by changing several aspects of the game at the same time. LevelMod and THUG PRO fall in this section.
External links[]
There are 2 main sites about THPS games modding: