Side by side
J.A.C.K. vs WolvenKit
Both stand on game modding tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
J.A.C.K. offers a broad set of editing tools for levels in several classic games. It is free as donationware, but VMF import and export remains limited beta support.
Visit J.A.C.K. Free plan Open source LinuxSelf-hostedWindows
WolvenKit offers a broad set of tools for working with Cyberpunk 2077 assets and archives at no cost. Check its runtime requirement and Linux caveat before setting up a workflow.
Visit WolvenKitThe facts
| J.A.C.K. | WolvenKit | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Steam version: $14.99, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | jack.hlfx.ru | github.com |
| On game modding tools | #7 of 25 | #3 of 25 |
J.A.C.K.: what it does well
- Supports Quake, Half-Life, Quake II, Quake III, and Hexen II.
- Includes curved surfaces, triangulation, and UV-Lock.
- Configurable autosave can help preserve projects.
- Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Distributed freely as donationware.
What to know first
- VMF support is beta.
- VMF support does not include Displacements.
- The software is provided without warranty.
WolvenKit: what it does well
- Free and open source under GPL-3.0.
- Browses archives and previews meshes and textures.
- Can edit REDengine files and convert them to JSON.
- Supports Blender imports of shaded Cyberpunk meshes.
- Stable and nightly builds are available through GitHub releases.
What to know first
- Linux compatibility is unstable and not guaranteed.
- Requires the latest .NET 10.0 runtime and x64 architecture.
- Nightly builds carry an increased risk of bugs.
Alternatives to J.A.C.K. Alternatives to WolvenKit The whole list