Yuzu makes it easy to modify your games directly within the emulator, thanks to its built-in modding framework. These mods can enhance your gaming experience by enabling features like increased frame rates and other performance improvements.
Getting started with modding in Yuzu is straightforward. Once you understand the basic process and technical steps, it quickly becomes second nature.
Before diving in, ensure Yuzu is properly installed on your device. Installation guides are available on our website for Windows, Android, and Linux platforms.
How Do Mods Work in Yuzu?
Mods in Yuzu function by modifying the original game files, enabling users to customize different elements such as gameplay mechanics, graphics, sound, and performance enhancements.
Yuzu uses a specific folder structure to manage mods. Within this directory, users can place altered game files, typically organized by the title of the game the mods apply to.
When a game is launched, Yuzu scans the mod directory and loads the modified files alongside the original ones, seamlessly integrating the changes.
The emulator also features a mod management interface that lets you toggle mods on or off, check their compatibility with specific games, and switch between various mod configurations for the same game.
Mod Folder Structure
To ensure mods work correctly, Yuzu follows a specific folder layout. Here’s an example of how the directory should be organized:
%YUZU_DIR%/load/0100XXXXXXX00000/romfs/
/exefs/
- Replace
0100XXXXXXX00000
with the actual title ID of the game. - Place your modded files inside either the
romfs
orexefs
folders, depending on the type of modification.
This structure allows Yuzu to correctly detect and load the modded content when the game is launched.
What Is the ExeFS Directory?
The ExeFS directory is where patches for a game’s executable files are stored. These patches are used to modify the game’s core behavior or logic systems. Two main types of patches are supported in this directory:
- IPS Patch: To apply an IPS patch, you need to create a file named after the NSO build ID and save it with a
.ips
extension. Once created, place this file inside the ExeFS folder. - IPSwitch Patch: This method is simpler. The filename can be anything, but the file must use the
.pchtxt
extension and contain the NSO build ID within its content. Save it in the ExeFS directory as well.
RomFS Extension (romfs_ext)
This is the folder used for patching and creating stubs for RomFS files. If a file with the same name exists in both the original RomFS and this directory, the one in romfs_ext
takes precedence. Additionally, placing a .stub
file with the same name allows you to effectively delete or disable the original file. IPS patches can also be used in this directory in a similar fashion.
How to Install Mods in Yuzu
Installing mods in Yuzu is a simple process. If you’re unsure where to start, check out the video below—it walks you through the entire setup step by step.