Considering that any modification of the game results in the "MODDED" tag and in fake progression, FOCUS should approach it like PD2.

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PAYDAY 2 takes a fairly open stance on modding, but with clear boundaries to protect the multiplayer experience.

✅ What’s Allowed:

• Client-side mods are permitted, as long as they don't impact game balance or give players unfair advantages.

• Mods that improve the user interface, change visuals or sounds, or enhance quality of life (like custom crosshairs, HUDs, or UI scaling) are generally accepted.

• These types of mods are common and even supported by the community through platforms like ModWorkshop.

❌ What’s Not Allowed:

• Cheat mods that give gameplay advantages—such as god mode, infinite ammo, auto-kill scripts, or enemy manipulation—are strictly forbidden, especially in public lobbies.

• These can lead to desync issues, negatively affect other players, and undermine fair play.

⚠️ How Enforcement Works:

• PAYDAY 2 uses Valve Anti-Cheat (VAC) to detect and ban users who run serious cheats.

• Overkill also maintains some mod detection systems and has blacklisted certain known exploitative mods in past updates.

• If you join a game with a mod that alters gameplay, hosts can see your behavior and kick you if it's disruptive or suspicious.

• While not every mod is detected, players can report others, and bans can result from repeat offenses or obvious abuse.

🔒 Best Practices for Modders:

• Use gameplay-changing mods only in private or friends-only lobbies.

• Stick to popular and vetted mods if you want to play in public lobbies without issue.

• Avoid touching core game files unless you're sure it won’t conflict with anti-cheat or multiplayer integrity.

📌 Summary:

Modding is welcome in PAYDAY 2, but only within fair and respectful limits. Cosmetic and QoL mods are fine, but if it affects gameplay balance—especially online—you risk being kicked, banned, or flagged by the community. Always mod responsibly .