Natural Selection 2 – How to Set Up Mods on Your Server Print

With Build 221, Natural Selection 2 officially supports Steam Workshop mods, making it easier than ever to customize your gameplay experience. Whether you're adding custom maps, gameplay tweaks, or UI changes, this guide walks you through the full setup process.

How Modding Works in NS2

• NS2 uses mod IDs (hexadecimal Steam Workshop IDs) to install mods.

• Mods are downloaded and updated automatically by the server.

• Client-side mods (like UI tweaks) don't always require server installation.

• Mods must be defined in both the Command Line Manager and MapCycle.json to load properly.

Step 1: Get the Mod’s Steam Workshop ID

Each Workshop mod has a unique ID found in its URL:

Example:
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=117887554

To convert this decimal ID (117887554) into hexadecimal, use:

• Any decimal-to-hex converter, or

• Windows Calculator in Programmer mode

117887554 = 706D242

Tip: If you've already used the mod on your local NS2 client, you can find the mod ID in:

Look for folder names starting with m, and copy the characters between m and _.

Step 2: Add Mod IDs to Command Line

1. Go to your Control Panel

2. Click Command Line Manager

3. Select your custom command line or create one

4. In the Mods field, input each mod ID separated by a space:

5. Click Apply to save changes.

Step 3: Add Mods to MapCycle.json

1. Navigate to the Configuration Files tab

2. Open MapCycle.json in the Text Editor

3. Add your mods to the JSON block like so:

4. Save the file.

Notes on Custom Maps

Custom maps will be downloaded automatically by clients, but to avoid issues, ensure your Map Rotation is set up correctly. You can read more in our Map Rotation Guide.

Client-Side Mods & Consistency Check

Some mods like Minimal Alien Vision only affect the player’s client. To allow these without installing them server-side:

• Use the #ConsistencyConfig.json file

• Whitelist any modded files so they pass the Consistency Check

That’s It!

Your Natural Selection 2 server will now:

• Download and install listed mods at startup

• Update them automatically between map changes

• Let players enjoy enhanced gameplay or visuals

Need help with advanced mod setups or consistency checks?
Reach out to Imperium Hosting Support — we’re here to assist 24/7!