LOOT
LOOT: A free, open-source desktop tool for sorting plugins and spotting load-order issues. Ranked #42 of 79 in Game Mod Managers by our editors (4.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for players managing plugin load orders across supported games.
At a glance
- Editor score4.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forPlayers managing plugin load orders across supported games
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Mod profilesYes
- Facts checked23 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Calculates and sorts plugin load orders using plugin data and metadata
- Flags incompatibilities, missing requirements and other load-order errors
- Supports separate profiles, custom rules, comparisons and automatic backups
Where it doesn't
- Manages plugin load order, not mod downloading or file deployment
- Official builds are available for Windows and Linux only
- Support is through community resources and documentation
Our verdict on LOOT
LOOT (Load Order Optimisation Tool) is a free, open-source desktop utility for organizing plugin load orders in Starfield, The Elder Scrolls, Fallout and OpenMW games. It is aimed at players who want automated sorting and diagnostics, including people managing multiple installations or total-conversion projects. Its scope is specific: it works with plugins and their metadata rather than handling mod downloads or deploying mod files, so it suits users seeking load-order management rather than an all-in-one mod installation tool.
The core workflow combines sorting with checks that can identify incompatibilities, missing requirements and other load-order errors. LOOT can update game masterlists from configured repositories, while plugin-specific notes, warnings and Bash Tag suggestions add context to individual entries. Users can also edit metadata and define their own load-order rules. That combination makes it useful for players who want to review why plugins are ordered a certain way and adjust the rules for their setup; players who only need to install or download mods will need a separate tool for those tasks.
Profiles let users keep settings separate for multiple game installations or total conversions. Load-order comparison, apply and discard controls, automatic backups, filtering and overlap views support reviewing changes before or after applying them. Official builds are available for Windows and Linux, with Linux distribution through Flatpak; the Arch package mentioned for LOOT is unofficial. Support is provided through community resources and documentation. Choose LOOT when plugin sorting, metadata rules and load-order diagnostics are the priority, and look elsewhere if mod-file downloading or deployment is central to the job.
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LOOT pricing
LOOT fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Mod profiles | Yes |
| Conflict detection | Yes |
| Automatic updates | Not verified |
| Mod source access | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Multi-platform |
| Deployment method | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | loot.github.io |
| Facts checked | 23 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to LOOT
- CurseForgeA broad Minecraft mod marketplace with profiles, version filters, dependencies, and updates.9.3
- VortexA capable Windows manager for Nexus Mods users who need profiles, sorting, and conflict control.9.1
- ModrinthA free Minecraft: Java Edition catalog and app for finding, managing, and sharing content.8.8
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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