The landscape of modding communities is witnessing a significant transition as Robin “Dark0ne” Scott, the founder of Nexus Mods, announces his departure from the platform. In a heartfelt message to users, Scott expressed that this decision comes after the site has “changed hands,” and he believes it is in both his and the community’s best interest to step back at this juncture.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
Reflecting on the inception of Nexus Mods, Scott reminisced about the early days of the project, which began in 2001 within the confines of his bedroom. Armed with nothing more than a 56k modem and a passion for the impending release of Morrowind, he embarked on a journey that would ultimately reshape the modding landscape. “I didn’t set out to build a business,” he noted, “I just wanted to create a space where modders could share their work without the fear of it disappearing into the ether, whether due to a fansite shutting down or a publisher pulling the plug.” This initial vision blossomed into Nexus Mods, a platform that has become a cornerstone for modders worldwide.
Over the years, Scott dedicated himself to the site, describing it as his entire adult life. “Every single day, for over two decades, I’ve been ‘on call’,” he shared, detailing the myriad responsibilities that came with running such a vibrant community. From troubleshooting issues to engaging with user feedback, and navigating the occasional community drama, the role has been both rewarding and demanding. “It’s been chaotic, often exhausting, and always personal,” he reflected, acknowledging the toll it took on his well-being. “Somewhere along the way, I forgot to step back and breathe, or sleep properly.” The relentless nature of managing a major social network, he admits, can be overwhelming.
As Nexus Mods transitions to new ownership under the handle ‘Foledinho’, users can rest assured that the commitment to keeping mods free remains steadfast. This change marks a new chapter for the platform, one that Scott hopes will continue to thrive and support the modding community he so passionately nurtured for over two decades.
