When a mod or a server plugin requests the , it means the mod requires unrestricted, low-level access to the game’s memory and functions. Exclusive access bypasses certain safety checks, allowing the mod to:
As Vintage Story continues to evolve, the distinction between API and Lib remains strict. The developers consistently move functionality from the library into the API to make modding easier.
Exclusive access is powerful but dangerous. Two mods cannot hold the exclusive flag on the same DLL simultaneously—hence the "exclusive" label.
Manually delete the installation folder in %appdata% to ensure no corrupted DLLs remain.
If you are just starting, focus on the for the official API.
: The game uses various "recipe types" (grid, smithing, knapping, etc.) to manage what can be crafted. Some of these are restricted by class to encourage player specialization and trading in multiplayer. Modding and Unlocking Content
Other notable additions and mechanics in recent versions include:
: Unlike other sandbox games, sleeping in a bed does not set your spawn point; instead, you must use a Temporal Gear on a bed to set it [12].
"vintagestorylib.dll" exclusive access (or a variation where the game cannot load/replace this file) typically happens when the Vintage Story engine is still running in the background or another program has locked the file. This specific DLL is the "Engine code" that provides the core logic for both the client and server. Why This Happens Active Process : The most common cause is a "ghost" instance of Vintagestory.exe VintagestoryServer.exe that didn't close properly, keeping the library in use. Mod Incompatibility : Some coded mods reference VintagestoryLib.dll