Why addons matter ⚙️
Garry’s Mod is only as good as the creativity you plug into it. From prop-hunting chaos to sandbox precision, addons are what turn a simple server into a unique playground. Whether you’re hosting for friends or running a full community, the right addons can completely transform your experience.
🧱 1. Wiremod
The backbone of serious GMod engineering. Wiremod adds logic gates, sensors, and components that let players automate contraptions, build computers, and even program weapons. It’s endlessly creative and essential for tech-minded builders.
🎭 2. DarkRP
Still the king of roleplay modes. DarkRP provides a full economic and social framework - jobs, laws, money, and mayhem. With proper admin management and community rules, it’s the perfect base for player-run cities and persistent worlds.
🔫 3. Trouble in Terrorist Town (TTT)
A classic deduction-based game mode where trust is optional and betrayal is expected. Great for smaller servers that want social gameplay with a bit of chaos. You can add custom weapons, maps, and traitor tools for endless variety.
🚪 4. Prop Hunt
Hide as a random prop while others try to hunt you down - simple, hilarious, and timeless. Prop Hunt is light on resources but heavy on laughs, making it a brilliant pick for community events or casual nights.
🪄 5. ULX & ULib (Admin Tools)
If you’re running a server, you need control. ULX and ULib give admins easy commands for moderation, teleporting, banning, map voting, and more. Combined, they’re the gold standard for keeping your world stable and fair.
🌎 6. Map Vote & Rotation Tools
Let your players pick where to play next. Map voting systems prevent repetition, encourage variety, and keep things democratic. Addons like “MapVote” integrate seamlessly with game modes like TTT or Sandbox.
🧍 7. Playermodel Packs
Visual variety goes a long way. From Half-Life and Star Wars models to anime or fantasy packs, fresh playermodels make your community feel personal. Just keep performance in mind - huge model packs can increase load times.
🚧 8. Tool Gun Extensions
Enhance your building tools with extra functions - precision alignment, weld enhancers, material changers, and more. Perfect for creative servers where players spend hours constructing insane contraptions.
🚀 9. Expression 2 (E2)
An extension of Wiremod, Expression 2 allows scripting within the game itself. Players can create automated turrets, displays, or moving vehicles with real code logic. It’s a playground for coders and tinkerers.
🎨 10. Custom HUD & UI Packs
Modernise your interface with cleaner health bars, ammo counters, or minimalist menus. UI packs improve immersion and presentation - especially on servers that want a more professional look.
Tips for installing addons safely 🧠
- Always back up your server before adding new addons.
- Add one addon at a time to pinpoint any compatibility issues.
- Keep your addons folder tidy - remove outdated or unused content.
- Restart your server after changes to make sure everything loads properly.
- Keep an eye on resource usage if you’re stacking large workshop items.
Final thoughts 💭
Addons are what keep Garry’s Mod alive after all these years. From simple prop-hunt servers to sprawling roleplay worlds, the right mix of mods turns your server into something truly unforgettable.
If you’re hosting with ChipHead, installing addons is quick - drag, drop, restart, and play. Build your dream sandbox and let the chaos begin! 🧱
