One of the biggest modding networks on the internet, Nexus Mods, is planning to implement compensation schemes for modders who upload their work on the site. The system is to be launched next year.
Nexus Mods is home to some of the most popular mods for games like "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" and "Fallout 4." These mods are free, uploaded by the creators ("modders") for everyone to download.
The proposed compensation system for modders is not so straightforward. There is no fixed value for the amount to be paid to them.
The amount will be based on a monthly pool decided by Nexus, which may range from $5,000 to $10,000. This base amount may then be supplemented by user donations on the site.
Modders eligible for compensation will have "points" tracked for them, which will depend on the number of unique downloads. This "unique downloads" relationship is based on a 1:1 ratio per user and mod author.
This means that, for example, a modder who only has one mod downloaded by three users will still receive more revenue than one who has ten mods downloaded by just one user.
Points received by the modders as compensation can be exchanged for items in the Nexus Mods storefront. However, they can also convert it to cash via Paypal, or as Amazon gift cards if they so desire.
Nexus hopes that this will help modders get tools they need to further improve their mods. With the extra income, they could buy hardware like video cards and chipsets that will help with their work. They could also purchase licenses for software that aid in the creation of mods.
Of course, they could also purchase new games. Nexus is aiming to bring game offers similar to GOG, Humble Bundle, or Steam.
Robin Scott, Nexus Mods founder, assured people that this does not mean mods now have to be paid. The compensations are cash willingly pooled from the site as well as contribution from the volunteers. The mods hosted on the site will remain to be free to download.
