What is xEdit?
xEdit (also known as FO4Edit for Fallout 4) is the most powerful and versatile tool for viewing, editing, and creating plugins for Bethesda games. It's essential for serious modding work, conflict resolution, and maintaining a stable modded game.
Read First: STEP xEdit Guide
Before proceeding, please read the STEP xEdit Guide sections on "What is xEdit?" and "Understanding the Interface". This will provide essential technical background that complements this learning-focused guide.
Interface Preview
xEdit features a three-panel interface: the left panel shows your load order and file structure, the middle panel displays record types, and the right panel shows detailed record information. This layout makes it easy to navigate and understand how mods interact with your game.
Core Concepts
Understanding these fundamental concepts is crucial for effective xEdit usage:
Records and Forms
Everything in Fallout 4 is stored as records (Forms) - weapons, NPCs, quests, world spaces, etc. xEdit allows you to view and edit these records directly.
Load Order
Mods load in a specific order, with later mods overriding earlier ones. xEdit shows you exactly how records are being modified by each mod.
Conflicts
When multiple mods modify the same record, conflicts occur. xEdit's color-coding system makes conflicts immediately visible.
Masters and Dependencies
Mods depend on other files (masters). Understanding these relationships is essential for creating stable patches.
Key Features
xEdit provides powerful tools for every aspect of mod management and creation:
Cleaning Dirty Files
Remove unnecessary data (ITMs, UDRs, UESs) from mods and DLC to prevent conflicts and improve stability. Essential for maintaining a clean load order.
Visual Conflict Detection
Color-coded interface instantly shows conflicts between mods. Red indicates conflicts, green shows winning records, and orange shows losing records.
Comprehensive Record Editing
Edit any game record including weapons, NPCs, quests, world spaces, and more. Full access to all game data with a user-friendly interface.
Patch Creation
Create compatibility patches to merge changes from multiple mods, ensuring all your mods work together harmoniously.
Scripting Support
Automate repetitive tasks using Pascal scripts. Extensive script library available for common modding tasks.
Advanced Search
Powerful search and filter capabilities to quickly find specific records, references, or conflicts across your entire load order.
Why Use xEdit?
While other tools exist for modding, xEdit offers unique advantages:
Essential for Stability
Without proper conflict resolution and cleaning, your modded game will be unstable, crash frequently, and have unpredictable behavior. xEdit is the only tool that provides comprehensive conflict detection and resolution.
Complete Transparency
See exactly what every mod does to your game. No hidden changes or mysterious conflicts.
Maximum Control
Fine-tune your mod setup with surgical precision. Make exactly the changes you want, nothing more, nothing less.
Performance Benefits
Properly cleaned and patched mods load faster and use less memory, improving overall game performance.
Learning Tool
Understanding how mods work at the record level makes you a better modder and helps you troubleshoot issues.
Prerequisites
Before using xEdit effectively, you should have:
Required Reading
Make sure you've read the STEP xEdit Guide sections on "Prerequisites" and "Installation" before proceeding.
1. Basic Modding Knowledge
Understanding of mod load order, plugin files (.esp/.esm), and basic modding concepts.
2. Mod Organizer 2
Familiarity with MO2's virtual file system and how it manages mods.
3. Backup Strategy
Always backup your game and mods before making changes with xEdit.
4. Patience and Care
xEdit is powerful but requires careful attention to detail. Take your time and double-check your work.
Download xEdit
Get the latest version from Nexus Mods or visit the official xEdit website
Next Steps
Now that you understand what xEdit is, continue with the installation guide: