A New Chapter for Nexus Mods: Ownership Transition After Nearly a Quarter Century

For the first time in 24 years, the popular PC gaming mod hub Nexus Mods is under new leadership. Founder Robin “Dark0ne” Scott has decided to step down from his role to prioritize his mental well-being. This significant shift marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for one of the most influential sites in the gaming community.

Announcing the Leadership Change

Scott shared a heartfelt message today, revealing that he has officially parted ways with Nexus Mods after months of introspection, extensive meetings, and heartfelt discussions. While he chose to keep many behind-the-scenes details private, he introduced two new individuals who have taken over the reins: Victor, also known as Foledinho, and Marinus, also called Rapsak. Both now hold the title of “Site Owner,” signaling a fresh start for the platform.

Why the Change? Prioritizing Mental Health

Scott explained that the immense responsibility of overseeing Nexus Mods has led to increased stress, anxiety, and health issues. “The pressure of running such a large community has been overwhelming,” he said. Recognizing the toll it was taking on himself and his team, Scott concluded that stepping aside was the best course of action. His goal is to ensure the site’s continued growth under new leadership while he focuses on his personal well-being.

The Origins and Growth of Nexus Mods

What began as a small project in Scott’s bedroom dedicated to The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind has since transformed into a giant in the gaming industry. According to the platform’s About Us page, Nexus Mods now boasts over 63 million users and has facilitated more than 16.8 billion file downloads. Its popularity makes it one of the most trafficked UK-based websites worldwide, a testament to its vital role in the PC gaming community.

Impact of Leadership Transition

As Nexus Mods continues to expand, Scott has been gradually stepping back from daily operations over the past few years. He emphasizes that this recent change is merely a formalization of that process. Although he will no longer be involved in the site’s day-to-day management, he reassures users and modders that the platform’s core values remain unchanged.

Scott mentioned, “I’ve been gradually reducing my involvement, and the team has been doing exceptionally well. Now, with this official transition, we’re making sure the right people are in place to lead Nexus Mods into its next phase.”

Commitment to Community and Stability

He also highlighted that these structural changes are aimed at ensuring the platform’s long-term stability, without disrupting its current operations. “Nexus Mods has always been about community first and supporting mod authors — that’s non-negotiable,” Scott affirmed.

Remaining Involved and Looking Ahead

Even after stepping down from his leadership role, Scott plans to stay connected with the Nexus Mods community through forums, Discord, and other channels. He will continue to support the site’s talented team of 40 employees, helping guide its future without bearing the full weight of responsibility himself.

“Ownership has officially changed hands, but this isn’t some corporate exit or secret deal,” he clarified. “This is a personal decision — something I should’ve done years ago — to focus on my health, reclaim mental space, and accept that I don’t have to do everything alone.”

The Future of Nexus Mods

Since its inception, Nexus Mods has hosted countless fan-created modifications for popular franchises such as The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Stardew Valley, Baldur’s Gate, Cyberpunk 2077, and many more. Even moments after the surprise release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion earlier this year, numerous small mods appeared on the site, underscoring its role as the go-to platform for PC gamers eager to customize their gaming experience.

With new leadership in place, some uncertainty remains about what lies ahead, but the platform’s dedication to fostering a vibrant modding community remains strong.

Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with extensive experience working with gaming and tech outlets. Follow him on Bluesky and Twitter for more insights.

Emma Blake

Emma is a tech-savvy news editor who thrives on staying ahead of the curve. With a background in digital journalism and media studies, she brings readers up-to-the-minute updates on gaming, tech, and entertainment trends. Emma’s writing is sharp, insightful, and always backed by credible sources. Her mission is to keep the community informed and curious about the fast-changing digital world.