Mod is short for modification. Mods, also sometimes called add-ons, are extra additions made to your game to adjust your user interface to better suit your needs. Mods are usually designed to do one particular thing, and you may have quite a few of them running at the same time.
Contents [hide] |
Most mods fall into one of a few categories:
Please note that mods are created by someone who knows how to program XML, but only use functions that are allowed within the game. In other words, the use of any particular mod should not be a bannable offense regardless of what it does. However, there is another type of modification called a hack that is against the Terms of Service. There are external programs that help influence the way the game operates, and almost always do things that Blizzard does not allow. (Otherwise, why wouldn't you just make a mod instead?)
Incorporating a mod into your WoW gaming is not especially difficult. In general, using a mod requires the following steps:
The mod should be functioning at that point. Note that you can use a mod for some characters and not others using a pulldown on the add-ons menu. There may be silver check marks on the checklist that indicate a mod that is being used for other characters, but not the one selected. Also, if you decide to do away with a mod, it is as simple as returning to the add-ons menu and clicking the mod off.
Some mods are very obvious when they are first used, some create an activated button around the edge of the minimap, and others need to be controlled by slash commands. Most mods come with a small readme file, so if it isn't obvious how to use a mod, you should probably check the readme.
There are many internet websites that specialize in hosting mods for various games. The following is an incomplete list of sites that house mods for World of Warcraft:
Now that you have found and installed all of the mods that you need for your World of Warcraft experience, you are going to need to take some time to make sure that they stay current. While many mods will work if they are out-of-date, it is recommended that you keep everything current to prevent unexpected bugs or glitches. Also, from time to time Blizzard will change or disable LUA functions, which can cause game errors from out-of-date mods.
There are multiple options available to you for keeping your mods current. Most mod sites have clients you can download, which will check your installed mods and automatically update them. One of the most popular versions is the WoWAceUpdater. This program (available for both Windows and Macs) will keep any Ace-based mod installed on your system up to date.
This page needs more information! If you'd like to contribute, please edit this page (free ZAM account required)! |
|