What do people look for in a mod?

[Warluster]

New era's!

[econ21]

I mainly look for realism mods like RTR and EB, where slowing down the battles is a key - perhaps the key - aspect. They typically have beautiful skins, new units etc to make you feel good too. But often I end up appreciating the tweaks they make to improve the AI challenge. WesW is a good example of a modder who excels at the latter task. EB has an unexpected focus on this too.

I really like RPG elements in mods too. For example, Marcus Camillus's Roman leadership traits, which allow you to climb the ladder from student to Tribune to Legate to Praetor to Consul. EBs scripting and trait system was also a revelation.

My bugbears with mods are stability and documentation. Nowadays, I just can't put up with a mod that regularly CTDs - life is too short. One CTD is bearable - much more than that and I am looking elsewhere. And I dislike changes that are not explained in game or in an accompanying readme. I've never understood going to the trouble to change the rules of the game if you are not going to inform players so they can play accordingly.

[Ciaran]

Something new, basically. Different look, different gameplay, a new challenge, basically a different game for free . Or maybe a free expansion.

[Dol Guldur]

I always look at the code and the way the mod has been implemented (installed).

I have sometimes been known to play mods too, though never more than a turn or two (a habit from testing I fear).

But that's just me (I hope!)

:)