The “modpocalypse” is real, and it’s hitting every Project Zomboid player. With the release of major updates like Build 42, many mods tend to break, becoming unusable until updated by their creators. While Build 42 allows players to toggle back to Build 41, many are eager to dive into the latest version with a few mods to enhance the experience. After some searching through the Steam Workshop, we’ve put together a list of 10 mods that are safe and functional in Build 42.
10. Tidy Up Meister
Ever finished reading a magazine or using an item, only to have it clutter up your inventory? Tidy Up Meister by PePePePePeil solves this annoyance. Whenever you use an item directly from a container (like reading a book or magazine), the mod returns it to its original location instead of leaving it in your inventory. It’s a small quality-of-life improvement that keeps things organized and your inventory light.
9. Gunsliger’s Redemption
Previously known under a different name, Gunsliger’s Redemption by Kaofan allows players to use a gun to end their character’s life. While somber, this mod adds a role-playing element for players who prefer their characters to exit the world as humans rather than becoming undead. This mod isn’t for everyone, and the creator encourages using it with sensitivity.
8. Equipment UI
Created by Notloc, Equipment UI adds a much-needed layer of organization to your inventory. This mod introduces a new menu where you can see all your equipped items, from helmets to jackets to belts, in one tidy view. It’s especially handy for decluttering and navigating your inventory, making it a must-have for Build 42.
7. Reorder the Hotbar/Containers
This is actually two mods in one entry: Reorder the Hotbar and Reorder Containers, both created by Notloc. These mods allow you to rearrange the order of your inventory containers and hotbar slots. Got a new backpack and hate where it appears in your inventory? Problem solved.
6. Efficiency Skill Mod
The Efficiency Skill Mod by GersonRess introduces a new skill that makes your character faster at timed actions, like building or dismantling. It’s a realistic and immersive addition—after all, an experienced carpenter should work faster than a novice!
5. Surviving Through Seasons
Want to experience all four seasons in Project Zomboid without spending hundreds of in-game hours? Daimyo’s Surviving Through Seasons mod lets you adjust the length of months, allowing for more manageable seasonal changes. It’s perfect for players who want a realistic year-long survival experience.
4. Firearms
If you’re tired of the game’s standard arsenal, Firearms by Hyzo adds a variety of lore-friendly guns, ammunition types, and even silencers. While it’s a great way to spice up combat, note that this mod isn’t compatible with other weapon overhauls like Brita’s Weapon Pack.
3. Common Sense
Braven’s Common Sense mod lets your character perform actions that make sense in the real world, like using a crowbar to open doors or windows. It’s a simple yet highly effective mod that makes the game feel more intuitive.
2. Pillow’s Random Spawns
Pillow’s Random Spawns by Pillow expands the game’s spawn options, adding locations like Louisville and smaller communities. While Build 42 introduces new spawn points, this mod takes it further, offering more variety and chaos for your early-game experience.
1. Item Condition
At the top of our list is Item Condition by Qudix. This essential mod displays an item’s condition directly in your hotbar, using color indicators from green (pristine) to red (about to break). It’s a small but game-changing improvement, and we can’t recommend it enough—even for players who prefer vanilla gameplay.
This list is just the beginning. The Project Zomboid Steam Workshop is filled with incredible mods created by talented community members. While Build 42 has temporarily broken many favorites, we’ll update this list as more mods get patched for compatibility.