Mod Compatibility Guide

Understanding Mod Compatibility

Mod compatibility in 7 Days to Die depends on how mods modify game files. There are three main types of mod conflicts:

1. XML Conflicts: Multiple mods editing the same XML configuration files.
2. Asset Conflicts: Mods replacing the same textures, models, or audio files.
3. DLL Conflicts: Mods containing compiled code that modifies the same game functions.

Overhaul mods (like Darkness Falls, Undead Legacy) generally conflict with each other because they modify core game systems extensively. Smaller "modlets" can often be combined if they modify different aspects of the game.

Compatibility Matrices

Mod Combination	Compatibility Level	Notes	Recommended Action
Darkness Falls + Undead Legacy	Incompatible	Both are complete overhauls with conflicting XML and DLL changes	Choose one overhaul mod
Ravenhearst + War of the Walkers	Incompatible	Both modify core progression and crafting systems extensively	Choose one overhaul mod
Overhaul + Quality of Life Modlets	Conditional	Some QoL modlets may work if they don't conflict with overhaul changes	Test individually, check mod documentation
Multiple Small Modlets	Usually Compatible	If they modify different XML files and don't overlap	Use load order to resolve conflicts
Map Mods + Overhaul Mods	Usually Compatible	Map mods typically don't conflict with gameplay overhauls	Ensure proper installation order
Vehicle Mods + Overhaul Mods	Conditional	Depends on whether overhaul modifies vehicle XML files	Check for vehicle.xml conflicts

Load Order Best Practices

7 Days to Die loads mods alphabetically by folder name. Use numerical prefixes to control load order:

Mods/
├── 01_BaseMod/
├── 02_UI_Enhancements/
├── 03_Vehicle_Addons/
└── 04_Compatibility_Patches/

Recommended Load Order

1. Core Framework Mods (00_ prefixes)
2. UI and HUD Changes
3. Item and Recipe Modifications
4. Vehicle and Entity Additions
5. World Generation and Map Changes
6. Compatibility Patches (highest numbers)

Conflict Resolution

Identifying Conflicts

• Game crashes on load: Usually indicates DLL or major XML conflicts.
• Missing items or recipes: XML conflicts where later mods overwrite earlier changes.
• Visual glitches: Asset conflicts with textures or models.
• Gameplay inconsistencies: Conflicting XML values causing unexpected behavior.

Resolution Techniques

Conflict Type	Resolution Method	Tools Needed
XML Conflicts	Manual merging using XML diff tools	7D2D Mod Editor, Notepad++, XML comparison tools
Asset Conflicts	Rename asset files or adjust load order	File explorer, understanding of Unity asset bundles
DLL Conflicts	Contact mod authors for compatibility patches	Harmony knowledge, programming experience
Recipe Conflicts	Create compatibility patch with merged recipes	XML editing, understanding of recipe syntax

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Game Fails to Start

1. Check output_log.txt for error messages (typically in %AppData%\7DaysToDie\logs).
2. Remove mods one by one to identify the culprit.
3. Verify all mods are for the correct game version.

Missing Features from One Mod

1. Check load order - later mods may overwrite earlier ones.
2. Look for XML files with similar names across mods.
3. Create a compatibility patch that includes both mods' changes.

Performance Issues with Multiple Mods

• Some mods add high-poly models or intensive scripts.
• Monitor RAM usage - 7D2D is 32-bit and limited to ~4GB.
• Consider using lighter alternatives or reducing mod count.

Dedicated Server Mod Compatibility

For multiplayer servers, all clients must have the exact same mods installed. Our hosting plans include:

• One-click mod installation
• Automatic mod synchronization
• Modpack support for consistent client/server setups
• Backup systems to restore clean installations