Side by side
RED4ext vs SMAPI
Both stand on game mod loaders. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
RED4ext provides plugin loading and SDK tools for modders working with Cyberpunk 2077 scripting. Check its Windows focus and plugin build requirements before setting up a plugin.
Visit RED4ext
Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
SMAPI provides mod-loading tools and creator resources for Stardew Valley, with a free plan. Note the game-version requirement and the compatibility list’s limited update status; update checks can be disabled.
Visit SMAPIThe facts
| RED4ext | SMAPI | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | docs.red4ext.com | smapi.io |
| On game mod loaders | #13 of 26 | #9 of 26 |
RED4ext: what it does well
- Free script extender and plugin manager.
- SDK provides access to the scripting VM.
- Plugins can specify compatible game runtimes.
- Each plugin receives a logger.
What to know first
- Supports Cyberpunk 2077 on Windows only.
- Installation requires Visual C++ Redistributable 2022.
- Plugin builds must target x86-64 and use __fastcall.
SMAPI: what it does well
- Supports mod profiles and load-order control.
- Handles mod dependencies.
- Compatible with GOG and Steam achievements.
- Log parser suggests fixes for common issues.
- Maker says it can be uninstalled anytime.
What to know first
- Requires Stardew Valley 1.6.14 or later on listed desktop platforms.
- Compatibility list is no longer comprehensively updated monthly.
- Submitted log and JSON files are stored for 30 days.
Alternatives to RED4ext Alternatives to SMAPI The whole list