- Mod Loader: Essential tool required to run mods and custom maps in the Sandustry Demo.
- Installation: Requires placing files in the Steam directory and creating a new shortcut.
- Custom Maps: Expand gameplay by downloading community-made maps from the Discord.
- Gameplay Mods: Add features like New Game Plus to unlock all items immediately.
- Community Support: Join the official Discord for help and the latest mod releases.
Understanding the Modding Ecosystem
The Sandustry Demo supports a vibrant modding community that extends the game's longevity through custom content. Unlike many modern games that use Steam Workshop, Sandustry currently requires a manual installation process via a dedicated Mod Loader executable. This tool acts as a bridge, allowing the game to load external assets and script modifications without altering the core game files permanently.
This guide specifically applies to the Sandustry Demo available on Steam. Modding capabilities may differ or change upon the full release of the game. Always check the official Discord for the latest compatibility updates.
Modding Categories:
| Category | Function | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Mod Loader | Core utility required to run all other mods | Easy |
| Custom Maps | New environments and terrain layouts | Medium |
| Gameplay Mods | Mechanic changes (e.g., New Game Plus) | Easy |
| Asset Packs | Visual or audio modifications | Hard |
Always back up your save files before installing new mods. While the Mod Loader is generally safe, conflicts between multiple gameplay mods can occasionally occur.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
To get started, you need to download the Mod Loader. The primary source for this file is the official Sandustry Discord server.
Video Highlights:
- Join the official Discord to find the "Mod Loader" thread.
- Download the
mod_loader.exefile from the GitHub link provided. - Place the file in your Steam
Sandustry Demofolder. - Create a desktop shortcut for the Mod Loader to launch the game.
Download Mod Loader
Navigate to the #mods forum on the official Sandustry Discord. Locate the thread titled "Mod Loader" and click the GitHub link. Download the mod_loader.exe file to your computer.
Locate Game Directory
Open your Steam installation directory. The default path is C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Sandustry Demo. Paste the mod_loader.exe file into this folder.
Create Shortcut
Right-click mod_loader.exe and send a shortcut to your desktop. This shortcut will be your new way of launching the modded version of the game.
Initialize Folders
Launch the game using the new Mod Loader shortcut once. It will briefly open and close, automatically creating a mods folder and a configuration file in your directory.
Installing Custom Maps
Custom maps are a popular way to experience Sandustry with new terrain and resource layouts. These are typically shared by community members on Discord.
Before installing custom maps, you must first install the "Custom Map Loader" mod using the same method described in the previous steps. This mod enables the map selection dropdown menu.
Map Installation Workflow:
| Step | Action | Destination Folder |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Download Custom Map Loader | mods/ |
| 2 | Download Map Zip File | Downloads Folder |
| 3 | Extract Contents | mods/Maps/ |
| 4 | Select Map | In-game Dropdown |
Acquire Map Loader
Return to the Discord mods forum and find the "Custom Map Loader" thread. Download the specific file for this mod and paste it into your mods folder created by the Mod Loader.
Download a Map
Browse the community map submissions. Download a map file (usually a .zip) to your browser's default download location.
Extract and Place
Extract the downloaded zip file. Cut the extracted folder and paste it into the mods/Maps subdirectory within your Sandustry installation folder.
Launch and Select
Start the game via the Mod Loader shortcut. You will see a new dropdown menu. Select your newly installed map from the list and click "New" to generate the world.
Popular Gameplay Mods
Beyond maps, players can install mods that alter game mechanics. One of the most popular mods is "New Game Plus," which changes the starting conditions.
New Game Plus
- Unlocks Everything: Start with all machines and technology available immediately.
- Creative Mode: Ideal for players who want to build complex factories without grinding.
- Installation: Download the
.zipand place it in themodsfolder.
Quality of Life
- Inventory Expansions: Mods that increase stack sizes or inventory slots.
- Automation Tweaks: Adjusts machine speed or resource consumption.
- Visual Enhancements: Changes lighting or texture resolution.
Be cautious when running multiple gameplay mods simultaneously. For example, running two different "inventory expansion" mods might cause the game to crash or behave unexpectedly. Start with one mod at a time to test stability.
Mod Comparison Table:
| Mod Name | Type | Impact | Installation Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Game Plus | Gameplay | Unlocks all tech | mods/ |
| Custom Map Loader | Utility | Enables map selection | mods/ |
| Custom Maps | Content | New terrain | mods/Maps/ |
Verification and Troubleshooting
After installing your mods, it is crucial to verify that the setup is correct.
Post-Installation Checklist:
- Mod Loader exe is in the game root folder
- A 'mods' folder exists in the game directory
- Desktop shortcut points to Mod Loader, not the vanilla game
- Custom Map Loader is installed before adding maps
- Game launches successfully with the Mod Loader shortcut
If the Mod Loader creates the mods folder and the game launches to the main menu without crashing, your installation is successful. You can now proceed to select custom maps or enjoy gameplay modifications.
Common Issues and Fixes:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Game won't start | Mod Loader in wrong folder | Ensure mod_loader.exe is in steamapps/common/Sandustry Demo/ |
| Maps not showing | Map Loader missing | Install Custom Map Loader mod first |
| Crash on load | Corrupted mod file | Re-download the specific mod file |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I find the Sandustry download link for mods?
The primary hub for mod downloads is the official Sandustry Discord server. Navigate to the #mods forum to find the Mod Loader and community-created content.
Q: Do I need to buy the full game to use mods?
Currently, this guide focuses on the Sandustry Demo available on Steam. The Mod Loader is designed specifically for this demo version.
Q: Can using the Mod Loader get me banned?
Since Sandustry is currently a demo/single-player experience, using mods for custom content is generally supported by the developers. However, always avoid malicious hacks.
Q: How do I uninstall mods?
Simply delete the specific mod files from your `mods` or `mods/Maps` folder. To revert to the vanilla game entirely, launch the game using the original Steam shortcut instead of the Mod Loader shortcut.