How to Add Your Own Translation Patch to Vault Patcher

Understanding Patch Files

Vault Patcher works from patch definitions that tell it which hardcoded string to replace and what translation key to substitute. Writing your own patch lets you localize a mod that ships no translations at all, or override wording you dislike.

Writing a Patch

1. Find the exact literal string in the target mod. It must match character for character, including capitalization and punctuation, or the patch will silently do nothing.

2. Create a patch entry that pairs that literal with a unique translation key you choose. Keep keys namespaced so they do not collide with existing ones.

3. Add the key to your language file with the text you want displayed.

4. Reload the game. Vault Patcher applies patches during load, so changes to patch files require a restart rather than a simple resource reload.

5. Test in the exact screen where the string appears — some strings only render in specific GUIs, tooltips, or config menus.

Tips for Reliable Patches

• Start with one string, verify it works, then expand. Bulk-editing makes it hard to tell which entry failed.
• Watch for strings that contain formatting codes or placeholders; preserve those tokens exactly in your replacement.
• If two mods contain the identical literal, a broad patch may affect both. Scope your keys carefully.
• Keep a backup of your patch files before a mod update, since updates can change the underlying literals.