user generated content - How to attract modders to your game?

I am developing a game, but as I am working on it alone, the amount of content I can create is very limited. Because of that I want my game to be modded, for this purpose I am planning to create a complete modding API which would be exposed for lua scripting. I would also create tutorials to get people started. And the "Original" game would also be a "mod"(similar to Warcraft III maps) .

My question is: What can a developer do to encourage modding of its game?

PS: my game is a sandbox-ish multiplayer survival(most things are procedural).

Answer

• Make the modding tools very easy to use. There should be a tool for creating the mod, and a fast way to test the mod, ideally live creation if that's practical for your game.


• Make the distribution and installation of mods dead simple (think steamworks). People are more likely to make mods if they know they'll be used! A rating system will give recognition to modders and allow people to choose the best mods.


• Make many aspects of the game modifiable. If users can add levels, enemies, weapons, etc. they're more likely to make a mod. If the aspect of the game they want to change isn't modifiable, they won't make a mod.

And the most difficult task:

• Make a game that people love to play. People won't bother modifying a game they don't like.