Very interesting topic on modding! I totally support moddable games.
However, I can see many points here.
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I certainly like Epic’s attempt to build a solid community of developers. Having a forum where all engine developers and modders can chat together. Having access to complete game tools and source code. Those are fascinating opportunities for the mod creators, especially for those with serious intentions. Add more maps? Add more weapons? Add new cutscenes? Change game’s ending? Create a completely new story? Port the game to another platform? Whatever they want! It’s just $19 away! is something that I certainly like.
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However, there’s more casual category of modders. The guys who just want to play with the editor: open existing maps, see how they were made, replace a texture, create a room with their nickname on the wall, then try to create a better map or write a simple script. These guys don’t want to dive into C++ code or mess with source control, don’t want to purchase engine license, read and accept additional license agreements etc. They just want to go to the game’s binary directory and see if there’s something like Editor.exe =)
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Currently the Unreal Editor is more suitable for creating games rather than mods. What modders can do with it is to download a game project, modify it and then release it as a completely new version of the game, including a new executable. Someone in thread asked what’s the difference between a mod and a game based on another game. In my opinion, the difference is that you cannot play a mod if you don’t have a copy of the game. Imagine if your game is not free, but you have a full SDK for it. If anyone can make a free standalone modification using your SDK then anyone can release your whole game for free. doesn’t feel right. Also, players should be able to install multiple mods into one copy of the game.
I think we can find a consensus here and I’m looking forward to any improvements in the mod workflow.