How to Mod Cyberpunk 2077: A Comprehensive Guide

Learn how to mod Cyberpunk 2077 on PC. This guide covers essential prerequisites, game setup, and using mod managers like Vortex for a stable modding experience.

By Cyberpunk 2077 Wiki Editors · Updated July 7, 2026 · how to play

Getting Started: Prerequisites

Before you begin modding Cyberpunk 2077, ensure your system and game are ready. While manual mod installation is possible, using a mod manager is recommended for ease of use.

You will need:

  • Cyberpunk 2077 purchased on a PC platform (Steam, GOG, or Epic).
  • Visual C++ Redistributable 2022.
  • .NET 6.0 or newer.
  • Updated graphics card drivers.
  • The latest Windows Update for your operating system. (For Linux users, consult specific modding guides.)
  • An archive extraction tool like 7-Zip.
  • An internet connection.

It’s also crucial to run the game at least once before attempting to install any mods. This step ensures that necessary game files are generated, which are often required for proper mod integration.

Game Installation and Configuration

Optimizing your Cyberpunk 2077 installation can prevent common modding issues.

Installation Location: It is highly recommended to install Cyberpunk 2077 outside of the default C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86) directories. Windows’ security features in these folders can interfere with modding tools and even CD Projekt Red’s official REDmod launcher. A suggested alternative is C:\Games\Cyberpunk 2077. Installing the game on an SSD can also significantly reduce load times.

Platform-Specific Setup:

  • GOG:

    1. Open GOG Galaxy and navigate to your owned Cyberpunk 2077 game.
    2. Click “Install” and choose a custom install location, such as C:\Games. GOG will create a subfolder for the game.
    3. Optional: Disable automatic updates by unchecking “Keep this game up to date automatically.”
    4. After installation, click the button next to the “Play” button, then select “Manage Installation” and “Configure.”
    5. In the “Installation” tab, disable auto-updates.
    6. In the “DLC” tab, ensure “Cyberpunk 2077 REDMod” is selected.
    7. Click “OK,” then “Play.” In the game’s settings, enable mods. If you cannot enable mods, verify REDmod is installed correctly.
    8. Click “Play” again to launch the game.

  • Steam:

    1. Navigate to Cyberpunk 2077 in your Steam library.
    2. Click “Play.”
    3. In the game’s settings, enable mods.

  • Epic Games: Specific installation and configuration steps for Epic Games were not detailed in the provided sources.

Backup Save Files: Before installing any mods, it is strongly advised to back up your game’s save files. The common location for these files is C:\Users\<username>\Saved Games\CD Projekt Red\Cyberpunk 2077.

Mod Managers and Installation

Using a mod manager simplifies the process of installing, updating, and managing your Cyberpunk 2077 mods. Vortex Mod Manager is a recommended tool.

Finding Mods: The primary source for Cyberpunk 2077 mods is Nexus Mods. The Cyberpunk Modding Discord can also be a useful resource. Always read mod descriptions carefully, as some mods require other frameworks or specific game versions.

Vortex Mod Manager Setup:

  1. Download the Vortex installer from the Nexus Mods website.
  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts to install Vortex on your computer.
  3. Launch Vortex and log in with your Nexus Mods account.
  4. In Vortex, go to the “Games” section and search for Cyberpunk 2077. Select it for management. If not detected automatically, use “Add Game Manually” and navigate to your game’s installation directory (e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Cyberpunk 2077 for Steam users).

Installing Mods with Vortex:

  • Individual Mods: Browse the “Mods” section on Nexus Mods. Vortex can often directly integrate with Nexus Mods for easier installation.
  • Mod Collections: Some users create curated mod collections, like “Night City X.” To install a collection, visit its page on Nexus Mods, click “Add Collection,” and follow the prompts within Vortex. Vortex will download and install all mods in the collection. Premium Nexus Mods users may experience faster download speeds.

Essential Modding Tools

Certain mods require additional frameworks to function correctly.

  • REDmod: This is the official modding framework for Cyberpunk 2077 and is a hard requirement for many mods, especially when using Vortex. For Steam users, REDmod can be downloaded from the DLC tab of Cyberpunk 2077. When configuring your game, ensure Cyberpunk 2077 REDmod is selected.
  • Cyber Engine Tweaks (CET): CET provides scripting support and debugging tools.
    1. Download CET.
    2. Extract the contents of the downloaded file into your Cyberpunk 2077\bin\x64 directory.
    3. Launch the game once and press the ~ key to bring up the CET console.

FAQ

Can I mod Cyberpunk 2077 on console? Modding is generally not supported on PlayStation or Xbox consoles.

What is the best way to install mods? While manual installation is possible, using a mod manager like Vortex is recommended for a more streamlined and stable modding experience.

Where can I find mods for Cyberpunk 2077? Nexus Mods is the primary website for finding Cyberpunk 2077 mods.

Do I need REDmod to install mods? Yes, REDmod is the official modding framework and is often a hard requirement for many mods, especially when using Vortex.

Should I back up my save files before modding? Yes, it is highly recommended to back up your game’s save files before installing any mods to prevent potential data loss.