Nexus Mod Manager

Nexus Mod Manager (also known as "Vortex" or "NNM") is the official open-source mod manager for Nexus Mods, a popular online website that allows users from all around the world to upload and download custom modifications for PC video games.

Ranging in their functionality from small custom configuration files that unlock hidden game features to large multi-gigabyte total-conversion mods that can change every visual, audio, and gameplay aspect of the game, Nexus Mods very quickly became home of over 650 thousand of mods for (as of early 2025) over 3395 supported games.

While the vast majority of the mods and supported games requires users to manually download, install and manage their mods, Nexus Mod Manager is a highly useful companion app that can help download, manage, install and uninstall mods for over 60 of the most popular games on Nexus Mod website, including hits such as Dark Souls, Fallout, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, The Witcher 3, and many others.

It has built-in integration with modern browsers that allows single-click acquisition of new mods, an intuitive interface for managing all the mods for your detected games, auto-sorting, mod profiles, expanded functionality with plugins, customizable UI elements, save game manager, and much more.

Originally released in 2015, Nexus Mod Manager received numerous updates and extensions of its capabilities. As of 2019, this app was renamed Vortex, which introduced a greatly redesigned user interface and brought new tools for faster and easier mod handling, organization, installation, and uninstallation of mods.

In addition to serving as a great mod organization tool, Nexus Mod Manager/Vortex can also serve the role of the game launcher for your library of supported games.

This program is 100% free and can be easily run on any modern PC that can handle the games that are supported by this mod management app.

Features

User-Friendly Interface – Intuitive design allows users to manage mods effortlessly.

Automated Load Order Optimization – Uses Loot integration to reduce conflicts.

Drag-and-Drop Installation – Easily install mods by dragging files into the application.

Profile System – Enables users to create and switch between different mod setups.

Built-in Conflict Resolution – Helps users identify and resolve compatibility issues.

Cloud Saves & Backup – Ensures users never lose their mod configurations.

Wide Game Support – Compatible with many Nexus Mods-supported games.

One-Click Mod Installation – Direct integration with Nexus Mods for seamless downloads.

Performance and Stability Tools – Helps monitor the impact of mods on game performance.

Script Extender Support – Works with modding frameworks like SKSE and F4SE.

User Interface

Vortex features a modern, clean, and responsive UI, improving upon its predecessor, Nexus Mod Manager. The dashboard displays installed games, available mods, and load order settings in a structured way.

Users can easily navigate through the tabs for Downloads, Mods, Plugins, and Settings. The integrated conflict resolution and dependency checker ensure that mods are installed in the correct order, reducing errors and game crashes.

Installation and Setup

• Download Vortex from the official Nexus Mods website or FileHorse.
• Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Log in to Nexus Mods to link your account for direct downloads.
• Scan for installed games – Vortex automatically detects supported titles.
• Configure mod directories to specify where mod files should be stored.
• Start downloading and installing mods via Nexus Mods.

How to Use

• Install a Mod – Use the “Download with Manager” button from Nexus Mods, or manually add mod files.
• Enable/Disable Mods – Manage active mods using toggles in the interface.
• Manage Load Order – Adjust priorities to avoid conflicts.
• Resolve Conflicts – Use the built-in conflict resolution tool.
• Create Mod Profiles – Set up different configurations for multiple playthroughs.
• Launch the Game – Once mods are set, launch the game directly from Vortex.

FAQ

Is Vortex better than Nexus Mod Manager?
Yes, Vortex is the official successor to NMM and offers better features, stability, and support.

Can I use Vortex for non-Nexus mods?
Yes, Vortex allows manual mod installations for non-Nexus sources.

How do I fix mod conflicts?
Use the built-in conflict resolution tool to adjust mod priorities.

Does Vortex work with Steam and GOG games?
Yes, Vortex supports mods for games on Steam, GOG, and other platforms.

Is Vortex free to use?
Yes, but premium memberships on Nexus Mods offer faster downloads.

Pricing

Vortex is completely FREE, but Nexus Mods offers a premium membership (starting at $4.99/month) for faster download speeds and additional site features.

System Requirements

• OS: Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i3 or AMD equivalent
• RAM: 4GB minimum (8GB recommended)
• Storage: 200MB for the software; additional space required for mods
• Internet: Required for mod downloads and updates

PROS

• Free and easy to use
• Broad game compatibility
• Automatic conflict resolution
• Mod profiles for different setups
• Active development and community support

CONS

• Can be resource-intensive with large mod lists
• Requires internet for full functionality

Conclusion

Vortex (formerly Nexus Mod Manager) is one of the best mod management tools available for Windows PC users. It offers a seamless, user-friendly experience, making it easier to install, organize, and manage mods.

While it may have a learning curve for newcomers, its powerful features make it an essential tool for any serious modder. With its automatic load order handling, conflict resolution, and extensive game support, Vortex ensures that your modding experience is smooth and hassle-free.