Quick answer
What to do first
Back up the save and record the current mod list before changing anything. Match every mod to your RimWorld version, satisfy its declared dependencies, then inspect the first meaningful error and isolate the conflict. A sorting tool helps apply rules; no universal load order guarantees compatibility.
Match your symptom
| Symptom | Likely cause | Check | Next action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missing dependency error | Required mod or DLC is absent | Read the mod’s author page and dependency declarations. | Install only the intended compatible dependency through a trusted source, or leave the dependent mod disabled. |
| Errors after a game update | Mod targets a different version | Compare game version with the author’s maintained release. | Use a supported combination; do not assume a version label proves full compatibility. |
| Two mods conflict despite sorting | Their changes cannot be reconciled by order alone | Read known conflicts and the first relevant error. | Choose one or use an author-supported patch for that exact combination. |
| Save fails after removing content | The save depends on removed data | Compare with the backed-up working setup. | Restore the working combination; test isolation on a separate save, not your only copy. |
Protect the working save and mod list
Start with a recoverable state: copy the save, preserve the mod list and note the game version. Do not overwrite the only working save while testing removal. Content mods can leave dependencies in an existing colony even when a new test colony loads successfully.
Classify the first meaningful error
Read each relevant author page for supported versions, required DLC, dependencies and explicit order instructions. Follow those conditions before applying broad advice such as frameworks first or patches later. A dependency relationship is more useful than a list copied from someone else’s unrelated collection.
Check dependencies before order
RimSort is a third-party tool, not Ludeon support. Use its author-linked project and documentation rather than assuming a similarly named domain is official. Its community and user rules help sorting, but stale metadata or incompatible code can still produce failures. This guide does not install tools or endorse every suggested rule.
Isolate without damaging the save
Find the first meaningful error around loading or the reproducible action, then test a smaller combination on a separate save. Add or remove one relevant group at a time while preserving required dependencies. Do not dismiss every red error, disable security software, or promise that an imported hundred-mod order will work indefinitely.
Version & sources
Sources & what may change
- Applies to
- Core · PC 1.6.4850.
- Last verified
- 2026-09-04
- When to check again
- Recheck after a relevant game patch, DLC change or source correction. Mods can change these conditions.
Documentation reviewed; not an in-game test report. RimWorld Wiki is community-maintained, not Ludeon documentation.
Portions of the materials used to create this content/mod are trademarks and/or copyrighted works of Ludeon Studios Inc. All rights reserved by Ludeon. This content/mod is not official and is not endorsed by Ludeon.