SMLHelper (Modding Helper)
⚪ Last updated 2023⚠️ Install Order · 2 steps
Install in this order, then this mod last — most mods fail to load without their framework and dependencies in place.
Preview
🔍 Analysis
- 👍 2.3% endorsement rate — high engagement, a strong quality signal
- 🏆 #1 of 36 Libraries mods in this game by downloads
📋 About This Mod
SMLHelper has been deprecated and will no longer receive updates.
Use Nautilus if making mods for Subnautica 2. 0
While there is currently version 2. 15. 0. 1 for Subnautica 2. 0, it will be Removed when Nautilus is released fully as they WILL NOT work together.
A library that helps you add items, models, sprites, etc into the game in a very easy way!
Before asking any questions, please read the FAQ!
Also, DO NOT try to change the files in the Bepinex/Config/Modding Helper folder, especially the folders that contain the word "Cache". They are very crucial in determining how SMLHelper will add items into the game, and it is REQUIRED that they are not touched, especially if you don't know what you're doing!
Installation (FOR LATEST VERSION)
1. Download and install the Bepinex Subnautica Pack
2. Download the latest version of SMLHelper (Living large update).
3. Open up the downloaded file (you can also use WinRar or 7zip to open it).
4. Either drag-and-drop or copy-and-paste the "plugins" folder in the zip into your Bepinex folder.
Installation (FOR LEGACY BRANCH ONLY)
1. Download and install the QModManager if you have not already done so.
2. Download the legacy branch version of SMLHelper.
3. Open up the downloaded file (you can also use WinRaR or 7Zip to open it).
4. Either drag-and-drop or copy-and-paste the contained "Modding Helper" folder into your QMods folder.
If your QMods folder doesn't exist, run the game once so that QModManager generates it. You can also make the folder yourself.
What is this?
This library is basically allows you to easily communicate with the game so that you can focus more on the mod's features you are developing. It does nothing on its own, but is rather a "tool" to help other mods.
Isn't there already a Modding Helper?
Yes, but the difference is that this is a brand-new version of Modding Helper; V2, is what we're calling it. The reason for that is because we've done a major revamp of how the library works, and how other mods can use it. It also fixes a bunch of bugs, adds lots of new features, and overall, its just a huge improvement.
Is it compatible with mods that use the old Modding Helper?
Not anymore. As of version 2. 3, all of the legacy APIs have since been removed.
We chose this time to do it since the "Little Big Update" had all mods requiring updates anyways.
How do I update to a new version?
Do not delete your old folder! Just replace the files in the
SMLHelper is a modding library for Subnautica that simplifies adding items, sprites, and crafting logic, letting modders focus on content rather than technical hurdles. With 27,577 endorsements and 1.2M downloads, it's a staple for the modding community, last updated in February 2023.
✨ Key Features
📊 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Huge community trust (27,577 endorsements) — this is the backbone of Subnautica modding
- Saves you hours of fiddling with game internals; just plug and play
- Actively maintained as of early 2023, so it's still relevant for current mods
⚠️ Cons
- Last updated in February 2023 — might not support the latest game patches, so check compatibility
- It's a library, not a content mod — you won't see new items unless you use it to make your own
- Requires some modding knowledge to get the most out of it; not for casual players
For Subnautica modders who want to create custom items, sprites, or crafting recipes without wrestling with game code. Also essential for players who install mods that depend on SMLHelper. Skip if you're just looking for gameplay content — this is a tool, not a content pack.
💡 Beginner Tips
- If you're installing mods that require SMLHelper, place the DLL in the BepInEx/plugins folder (or Vortex will handle it).
- For mod creators, check the official docs on GitHub for examples on adding items and crafting recipes.
- Always check if your game version matches the mod's last update (Feb 2023) to avoid crashes.
📊 Mod Details
- Game
- Subnautica Mods
- Author
- Subnautica modding organization
- Version
- 2.15.0
- Downloads
- 1,212,236
- Endorsements
- 27,577
- Category
- Libraries
- Created
- 7/13/2018
- Updated
- 2/1/2023
🧩 Commonly Used Together
Users add these mods to the same collections — a real compatibility signal, not an AI guess.
🔧 How to Install Subnautica Mods
Download from Nexus.
📖 Full step-by-step install guide for Subnautica →
Visit the official mod page for specific installation instructions for this mod.
🎮 Need cheat codes or console commands? Check ur gaming wiki for Subnautica commands, item IDs, and more.
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