Last updated: 7/19/23
If this site ever goes down, you can probably find a backup on the Internet Archive.
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DISCLAIMER: The author is not up-to-date on everything that happens in the FFXIV world and thus cannot promise that the information provided herein is entirely accurate or that the links provided are totally safe. I am not responsible for lost accounts, bans, malware, or any other shenanigans.
Do your research, use your own judgement, and if in doubt: don't.
This document pertains only to graphical mods. For multiple reasons, I have no plans to discuss gameplay-altering mods.
**These rules are both for your well-being and the well-being of the modding community in general.**
"But I heard that the devs are okay with mods as long as you--" No. They aren't. Mods are against ToS, full stop. This has been explicitly stated by them, more than once. They can't spy on your client files because it's illegal in Japan, but that doesn't mean they're okay with mods. Plus they can always find out that you're modding without having to check your client files. If you mod your game, that risk is on you.
"The people behind this mod seem pretty cool and trustworthy though--" Cool people become uncool sometimes. This is a fact of life.
If that didn't scare you off, proceed.
Don't use GShade. Here's why.
TexTools modifies your actual game files, and can more easily brick your game. If you use it, be sure to reset your game files (Help > Start Over) before patching your game. Yes, this means you'll have to reload your modpacks post-patch.
Penumbra does not modify your game files. It also has some very nice QoL. But like all XIV Quick Launcher mods, it is unavailable after patches until it gets updated.
Optional:
I heard there are NSFW mods?
Yes, but I'm not discussing those on the open web.