Quick downloads
Common modding tools
A curated list of the tools most Stellaris modders use, with safe download links. If you’re brand new, start with VS Code + CWTools, then add more as your mod grows.
Editors & validation
Write scripts with fewer mistakes. This is where most modders start.
Visual Studio Code
Editor
A flexible code editor with extensions. Great default choice for Stellaris scripting.
- Download VS Code
- CWTools (Marketplace) — Paradox language services (validation + autocomplete).
- Paradox Syntax Highlighting (Marketplace) — Syntax highlighting tuned for Paradox script.
Notepad++
Editor · Windows
Lightweight text editor with tabs. Common for quick edits and log reading on Windows.
Sublime Text
Editor
Fast editor with a strong plugin ecosystem. Nice if you prefer a minimal UI.
Diff, merge, and archives
Compare vanilla vs mod files, resolve conflicts, and unpack assets cleanly.
WinMerge
Diff · Windows
Folder/file diff tool. Ideal for comparing your mod against updated vanilla files.
7-Zip
Archives
Archive manager used everywhere (zip, 7z). Handy for distributing builds.
Art & UI assets
Icons, portraits, and UI textures. These tools help you ship clean visuals.
GIMP
Images
Free image editor for editing and exporting mod assets.
paint.net
Images · Windows
Simple but powerful image editor. Popular for quick icon work on Windows.
Version control & collaboration
Track changes, undo mistakes, and collaborate without fear—especially across patches.
Git
Version control
Version control system. Keeps a full history of your mod and makes releases reproducible.
GitHub Desktop
Version control
A friendly GUI for Git. Useful if you prefer buttons over CLI workflows.
GitHub
Hosting
Host your repo, accept contributions, and publish releases. Common home for Stellaris mod teams.
Load order & troubleshooting (advanced)
When you run a big modlist: manage conflicts and keep your setup stable.
Irony Mod Manager
Mod manager
Alternative mod manager with conflict-solving features. Especially useful for large load orders.