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MO2 (Mod Organizer 2)

How to use MO2 - it's that simple

Last documented update: April 30 2025 by MyNameIsSpirits

MO2 (Mod Organizer 2, Nexus | Github) is a free, widely-used mod manager, especially popular for Bethesda games like Skyrim or Fallout. It fully supports Cyberpunk 2077 and is praised for its ease of use.

Using MO2 keeps your base game directory untouched and allows for easy mod installation, uninstallation, and updating. Additionally, you can create different profiles for mod configurations.

If you need further help with MO2 beyond this guide, feel free to ask for assistance on their official Discord server.

Download and Install MO2

  1. Download MO2 from either Nexus Mods (yes, Skyrim Nexus) or GitHub

  2. Install MO2

    • When installing, choose the Global Instance option (recommended for multiple games).

    • Or choose Portable Instance if you want a separate installation of MO2 for each game.

Setting Up the Game

  1. Launch MO2

  2. Create a new instance:

    • Browse to the Cyberpunk 2077 installation folder to create the new game instance.

  3. Customize your Profile Settings (Optional):

    • These can be left unchecked unless you need profile-specific INI files, save games, or automatic archive invalidation.

    • You can change these settings later as needed.

Installing CET and Red4Ext (the script extenders)

CET and Red4Ext have to be installed manually

Zash released an MO2 plugin update in January that allows you to install CET and RED4ext just like any other mod! This plugin means:

  • you do not have to install these two mods manually

  • you do not need to use Root Builder

This plugin update does not come automatically with a fresh MO2 install: it can be found in this GitHub repository, which also includes a step by step tutorial for installing it.

However, installing this plugin is entirely optional (though I still highly recommend it!). If you do not want to install it, then you should proceed to install CET and RED4ext manually by following the steps below.

Manually Install CET and RED4ext

  1. Download Cyber Engine Tweaks (CET) and RED4ext from Nexus Mods manually

  2. Install them by extracting their files to the game folder.

But what about Root Builder?!

Both the developer of MO2 and the guy who wrote the Cyberpunk plugin do not recommend Root Builder. If it's working for you, feel free to keep using it, but this is not the advised option for new users.

If you have chosen to install the plugin update mentioned above, then Root Builder is not at all necessary. It can (and should) be disabled via Settings > Plugins.

Installing Mods from Nexus

  1. Go to the Nexus Mods website for Cyberpunk 2077 mods.

  2. Download mods via the "Mod Manager Download" button. MO2 will start to automatically download the mod.

  3. In MO2, open the Downloads tab and double-click the mod to install it.

  4. After installation, ensure the mod is enabled by checking it in the Plugins list or the Installed Mods section.

Adding Mods from Other Sources

If you have mods from external sources:

  • Download the mod and move it to the Downloads folder by using the file folder dropdown in MO2 ("Open Downloads folder").

  • Alternatively, drag and drop the mod into the Downloads tab within MO2.

Launching the Game

You always have to launch the game through MO2 if you use MO2 as mod manager.

  1. Always Launch the Game through MO2:

    • If you're using MO2 as your mod manager, make sure to run Cyberpunk 2077 via MO2.

    • Steam will still track your playtime and achievements.

  2. Run the Game:

    • After setting up all your desired mods, click Run in MO2 to launch Cyberpunk 2077.

Tips and Best Practices

  • Stay up to date with the latest versions of both MO2 and the mods for the best experience and compatibility.

Troubleshooting

Some mods aren't working!

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