Nexus Mods Founder Steps Down, Citing Mental Health

PC gaming modification hub Nexus Mods is now under new ownership for the first time in 24 years, as founder Robin “Dark0ne” Scott passes the torch for the sake of his mental well-being.

The face of one of the internet’s largest gaming platforms shared news of its next chapter in a statement published today. This confirms Scott has officially stepped down from Nexus Mods after “months of meetings, in-person discussions, and deep reflection.”

The announcement keeps many operational details private but notes that two new individuals—Victor (also known as Foledinho) and Marinus (also known as Rapsak)—have assumed leadership, with both profiles now listing the “Site Owner” title. This transition marks a new era for Nexus Mods, and for Scott, a long-awaited respite.

“The pressure of overseeing the giant I built has weighed heavily on me,” Scott explained. “The constant demands of the role have frequently triggered anxiety and stress-related health problems. I recognized that I was burning out, and it began affecting my team and Nexus Mods overall. That’s why I strongly believe the best path forward is for me to step back and welcome new leadership with fresh energy to build the modding community we all want.”

What started as a small passion project in Scott’s bedroom for The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind grew into a gaming industry powerhouse. According to the Nexus Mods About Us page, this hub for the PC gaming community now counts 63.4 million users and 16.8 billion file downloads, ranking it among the most-visited UK-based websites worldwide.

As Nexus Mods expanded, so did its effect on Scott, who remained “on call every single day” for over two decades. While his reduced involvement in daily operations may bring changes, Scott assured modders and players alike that this shift is not a reason for worry.

“This is me doing something I probably should have done years ago: making my own well-being a priority.”

“I’ve already been gradually reducing my role behind the scenes,” Scott clarified. “Over recent years, the team has taken on more responsibility, and the site has thrived more than ever. What’s different now is the formal transition—ensuring the right people are in charge as Nexus Mods enters its next chapter.”

Scott explained that his departure from Nexus Mods, along with minor organizational adjustments, are meant to secure the platform’s long-term reliability and won’t alter its recent operations. He emphasized that “Nexus Mods remains community-centered and prioritizes mod authors—this is non-negotiable.”

Although Scott is stepping back from active leadership, he will continue to interact with the Nexus Mods community via the Mod Author Discord, forums, and other channels. He will also provide guidance to the platform’s 40-person team as it moves forward, no longer serving as its public leader.

“So yes, Nexus Mods has new owners, but I want to make it clear—this isn’t a corporate exit or a private deal,” Scott added. “This is me finally doing what I should have done long ago: taking care of myself. Clearing my mind. And letting go of the idea that I must handle everything and carry all responsibility alone.”

For decades, Nexus Mods has hosted thousands of fan-made creations for major franchises such as The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Stardew Valley, Baldur’s Gate, Cyberpunk 2077, and many more. In fact, shortly after The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion was stealth-released earlier this year, dozens of small mods were quickly uploaded to the site. It remains the preferred platform for PC gamers looking to customize their gaming experience, though the first leadership change in 24 years inevitably brings some questions about what lies ahead.