Quick Guide
- Back up your save files and validate game files before modding.
- Downgrade your game version if required by the mods you plan to use.
- Install essential tools like the Xenoverse 2 Patcher and Eternity's Tools.
- Use X2M and installer-type mods to add custom characters, skills, and more.
- Prevent accidental game updates by renaming your game directory.
Modding can breathe new life into your favorite games, and DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 is no exception. With a vibrant modding community, you can customize everything from character appearances to new abilities and quests. This comprehensive Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 Steam guide will walk you through the essential steps to safely mod your game in 2026, ensuring you can enjoy custom content without losing your progress.
Before you dive into the exciting world of custom transformations and unique characters, it’s crucial to prepare your game environment correctly. This involves safeguarding your existing data and ensuring your game version is compatible with the mods you wish to install.
Preparing Your Game for Modding
The first rule of modding is always to protect your existing game data. Unexpected issues can arise, and a proper backup ensures you can always revert to a stable state.
Backing Up Saves and Validating Files
Before making any changes, locate and back up your DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 save files. These are typically found in your Steam user data folder. Copy them to a separate, safe location on your computer. Additionally, it's a good practice to validate your game files through Steam. This ensures your game installation is clean and free of corruption before you start modifying it. To do this, right-click DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 in your Steam Library, go to Properties > Installed Files, and click "Verify integrity of game files."
Understanding Downgrades and Game Versions
One of the most critical aspects of modding DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 on Steam is managing your game version. Developers frequently release updates that can break mod compatibility. Many popular mods are built for specific, older versions of the game. If your game has automatically updated, you might need to "downgrade" it to a version supported by the mods you want.
Important Save File Warning: If your game accidentally updates and you have mods installed, DO NOT open the game until you downgrade. Booting your modded save on the newest version can corrupt it permanently. Similarly, if you've played legitimately on the current version and then downgrade for mods, that current save file may not work with the older, modded version.
If you have a legitimate save that you don't want to lose but still want to mod, back it up into a unique folder. You can then use a save editor (discussed later) to recreate your progress on a fresh, mod-compatible save file.
The Downgrade Process (Step-by-Step)
Downgrading your game involves using Steam's console to download a specific older version of the game files, known as a "depot." The exact depot code will change over time, so always refer to the most current information provided by modding communities or specific modding guides (like the pinned comment of the linked YouTube tutorial).
Using the Steam Console for Downgrading
- Press
Windows key + Rto open the Run dialog. - Type
steam://open/consoleand press Enter. This will open the Steam console window. - In the console, you'll need to enter a command to download the desired depot. The format is typically
download_depot <AppID> <DepotID> <ManifestID>. For DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2, the AppID is454650. The DepotID and ManifestID will be specific to the game version you need. You'll find these in up-to-date modding resources. - Once you enter the command, press Enter. The download process will begin. Do not close the console or interact with Steam until it displays "Depot download complete." The download time varies based on internet speed.
Copying Downgraded Files
After the depot download finishes, Steam will show you the path where the downgraded files are located. Navigate to this folder and copy all its contents. Then, paste these files into your main DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 installation directory (usually steamapps\common\DRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2), allowing them to replace any existing files.
Launching the Game Safely
This is critical: DO NOT launch the game directly from Steam after downgrading. Launching from Steam can trigger an automatic update, undoing all your hard work. Instead, always launch the game by navigating to your game's bin folder within its installation directory and running the executable directly (e.g., DBXV2.exe). You can verify your game version in the bottom right corner of the title screen. If it matches the target version for your mods, congratulations, your downgrade was successful!
Restoring Your Progress with a Save Editor
If you had to start fresh or lost your modded save due to an update, a save editor can help you quickly regain your progress.
Creating a New Save for Editing
First, launch the downgraded game (from the bin folder, remember!) and create a new character. Play through the initial cutscenes until you reach Conton City and ensure the game saves. Then, close the game. This creates the necessary save data file that the editor will modify.
Using Lazy Bonez's Save Editor
Download a reputable save editor, such as the one by Lazy Bonez (often linked in modding tutorials). Extract its contents and run the application. You'll need to register your game directory and the newly created save file within the editor. Once loaded, you can unlock characters, outfits, skills, quests, and more. After making your desired changes, ensure you save them within the editor before launching the game. Boot up DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 from the bin folder, and your new character should have all the unlocked content you added.
Installing Essential Modding Tools
With your game downgraded and save file prepared, it's time to install the tools that make modding possible.
Eternity's Tools and the Patcher
The core of DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 modding relies on Eternity's Tools, specifically the Xenoverse 2 Patcher. Download and extract these tools. The Patcher typically comes as a set of files that need to be copied directly into your game's main installation directory. Once copied, launch the game from the bin folder. If installed correctly, you should see "Patcher" next to the version number in the bottom right corner of the title screen. If not, double-check your installation steps.
Setting up the Installer (Xenoverse 2 INS)
Another critical component of Eternity's Tools is the Xenoverse 2 INS (Installer). This tool manages the installation of most mod files. Download and extract it, then run the application. It will likely ask you to confirm your game's path. Agree to the prompts, and you'll be ready to install mods.
Adding Custom Content: X2M and Installer Mods
There are generally two main types of mods you'll encounter: X2M files and installer-based mods.
Finding and Installing X2M Mods
X2M files are the most common mod type, often used for characters, costumes, and skills. You can find a vast array of these on dedicated DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 modding sites like The Citadel or through community reports on platforms like Patreon.
Once you've downloaded an X2M file:
- Open the Xenoverse 2 INS tool.
- Click the "+" sign within the INS application.
- Navigate to where you saved your X2M file, select it, and click "Open" or "Install."
- The mod will be installed directly into your game. Depending on the mod, it will appear in shops, on the character select screen, or as new skills.
Running Installer-Type Mods
Some mods, particularly larger overhauls or specific gameplay changes, come with their own dedicated installers.
- Download and extract the installer mod (e.g., "Faster Lobby Flying").
- Run the executable file provided with the mod.
- The installer will typically ask for your DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 directory path. Provide it, set any preferences the installer offers, and proceed with the installation.
- These changes will be active the next time you launch the game from your
binfolder.
Pro Tips for a Stable Modded Experience
To maintain a smooth modded experience and prevent future headaches, consider these tips:
- Prevent Auto-Updates: A common and effective strategy is to rename your game's main directory. For example, change
DRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2toDRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2 Modded. This prevents Steam from automatically updating the game, preserving your modded installation. - Manage Multiple Saves: As mentioned, maintaining separate save files for vanilla and modded playthroughs can save you a lot of grief. You can easily switch between them if you decide to play the unmodded version or try new mods that might conflict with an existing save.
Modding DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2 opens up a universe of possibilities, allowing you to tailor your experience exactly how you like it. By following this Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 Steam guide, you're well-equipped to navigate the setup process and unleash your creativity within Conton City. Enjoy your custom adventures!
FAQ
Q: Why do I need to downgrade my Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 Steam game?
A: Many popular mods are developed for specific, older versions of the game. When the game updates, these mods can become incompatible. Downgrading ensures your game version matches the requirements of your chosen mods, allowing them to function correctly.
Q: Can I lose my save data when modding Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2?
A: Yes, there's a risk. If you launch a modded save on an updated, unmodded version of the game, it can corrupt your save file. Always back up your save files before starting the modding process and consider using a save editor to recreate progress on a fresh save if you need to downgrade.
Q: How do I prevent Steam from automatically updating my modded Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2?
A: The most effective method is to rename your game's installation directory (e.g., from "DRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2" to "DRAGON BALL Xenoverse 2 Modded"). This will prevent Steam from recognizing and updating the game, keeping your modded version stable. Remember to always launch the game directly from its bin folder after renaming.
Q: Where can I find reliable Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 mods?
A: Reputable modding websites like The Citadel, or community channels on platforms like Patreon and YouTube, are excellent resources for finding a wide variety of mods. Always ensure you download from trusted sources to minimize risks.